Zambian Seafood Stew

Ingredients

While the original Caldo de siete mares is a Mexican seafood soup, the Zambian Seafood Stew takes inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of Zambia. The Zambian version incorporates local spices and herbs, such as chilies and cilantro, to add a unique twist to the dish. Additionally, the Zambian Seafood Stew uses regional seafood varieties and vegetables, giving it a distinct taste and texture that reflects the culinary traditions of Zambia. We alse have the original recipe for Caldo de siete mares, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (prawns, fish, mussels) 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (prawns, fish, mussels)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups (950ml) fish or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) fish or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the pot and cook until they start to soften.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down.
5. 5.
   Add the ground paprika, cumin, dried thyme, chili powder, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.
6. 6.
   Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. 7.
   Gently add the mixed seafood to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and tender.
8. 8.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
10. 10.
    Serve the Zambian Seafood Stew hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Seafood — Ensure that the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the stew.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Cilantro — Add the fresh cilantro just before serving to preserve its vibrant taste and aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier stew, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chilies according to your taste.
• Serve the Zambian Seafood Stew with freshly baked crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Feel free to customize the seafood selection based on your preferences and availability.

Serving advice

Serve the Zambian Seafood Stew in deep bowls, allowing the flavors to mingle and the aroma to waft through the air. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Zambian Seafood Stew with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro on top. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness to the rich red stew, making it visually appealing.