There comes a time in the winter season when that damn groundhog tells us 6 more weeks of winter or not. I’m not a fan of cold weather, but it plans out my menu for me.  Whether that means lighter meals for warmer weather, or warm and cozy soups and pastas for colder weather.  I’m a fan of cozy meals, but I prefer to not feel like I need a 6 month nap after I eat them  GUYS, THIS SOUP IS MY FAVORITE. The right balance between spicy, and sweet with the tomatoes and chilies, and the seafood gives this depth of flavor that feels like you’re eating a “meat & potatoes” meal.

Usually when I make this stew it takes about an hour to make, however, Sunday I had some extra time, so the base of the stew simmered for a few hours on my stove.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fresh or frozen skinless cod, or sea bass (I used cod)
• 6 ounces fresh or frozen peeled & cleaned shrimp
• 1/3 cup diced onion
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• salt & pepper, to taste
• fresh parsley, chopped
• crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Start by sweating the onion, garlic and celery in a pot with the oil over medium heat until soft. Stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to boil, and reduce heat to a simmer. I let this simmer for a few hours. If you’re in a hurry, it really only needs to simmer for about an hour.

To prep the fish and shrimp, it should be cut into chunks that are bite size pieces. Gently drop the fish and shrimp into the hot stew liquid, and bring it up to just past a simmer.  Let it hang out until the fish flakes apart, and the shrimp are cooked.  Add salt and pepper, and taste your stew, adjust seasonings to your liking.  Ta da! Your stew is done!!

I serve mine with come crusty bread and butter, and sprinkle over the fresh parsley.

Can we just pause one second to talk about how good this stew is.  It’s the perfect cold day meal.

AND LOOK AT THESE SWEET FACES. Get used to seeing these two, they’re going to be popping up a lot in upcoming blogs. Please tag me in pictures of this if you make it!

Enjoy!