Sicilian-Style Varya with a Twist

Ingredients

In the Sicilian adaptation of Hutsul varya, the traditional Ukrainian dish is transformed by incorporating Sicilian flavors and ingredients. The original dish typically consists of meat, potatoes, and vegetables cooked in a rich broth. However, in the Sicilian version, seafood takes center stage, replacing the meat. The addition of aromatic herbs, citrus zest, and the use of a tomato-based broth are distinct characteristics of Sicilian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Hutsul varya, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, calamari, mussels) 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, calamari, mussels)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive 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 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) fish or vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) fish or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. 3.
   Add the mixed seafood to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to turn opaque.
4. 4.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes and fish or vegetable broth. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the seafood to fully cook.
6. 6.
   Serve the Sicilian-Style Varya hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Accompany with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Seafood — Ensure that the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before cooking to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Lemon zest — Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.
• Fresh basil leaves — Tear the basil leaves just before garnishing to release their aromatic oils.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth.
• Serve the Sicilian-Style Varya with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
• Customize the seafood selection based on personal preference and availability.
• Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of white wine to the broth before simmering.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors intensify over time.

Serving advice

Serve the Sicilian-Style Varya in individual bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of seafood and flavorful broth. Accompany it with warm crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Sicilian-Style Varya with a sprig of fresh basil and a sprinkle of lemon zest to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve it in rustic ceramic bowls to evoke the charm of Sicilian coastal dining.