How to Make Bouillabaisse - A Step-by-Step Guide

Bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew originating from the port city of Marseille in Southern France. This hearty and flavorful dish is a beloved part of French culinary heritage and is often enjoyed as a special occasion meal or as part of a festive gathering with family and friends.

The rich history of bouillabaisse dates back to ancient times when fishermen would prepare this dish using the leftover fish that was not suitable for sale at the market. Over the years, bou...

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Ingredients

  • ¾ cup olive oil
  • 2 onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 leeks, sliced
  • 3 tomatoes - peeled, seeded and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 sprig fennel leaf
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • ¾ pound mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 9 cups boiling water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 5 pounds sea bass
  • 1 pinch saffron threads
  • ¾ pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 12 servings

  • Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan, and add the onions, leeks, chopped tomatoes, and garlic. Cook and stir over a low heat for a few minutes until all vegetables are soft.
  • Stir in the fennel, thyme, bay leaf, and orange zest. Add shellfish and boiling water; stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Turn up the heat to high, and boil for about 3 minutes to allow the oil and water to combine.
  • Add fish, and reduce the heat to medium. Continue cooking for 12 to 15 minutes, or until fish is cooked. The fish should be opaque and tender, but still firm. Fish should not be falling apart.
  • Taste the bouillabaisse and adjust the seasoning. Stir in saffron, and then pour soup into a warmed tureen or soup dishes. Serve immediately.
  • Nutrition

    365 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 125mg
    • Sodium: 203mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 6g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 43g
    • Vitamin C: 10mg
    • Calcium: 64mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 708mg