South american fish stew

South American Fish Stew is a vibrant dish that combines white fish with aromatic spices, tangy orange juice, and chili heat. This hearty stew is perfect for a comforting meal, showcasing the rich flavors of South American cuisine.

12 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup fish sauce
1 cinnamon stick
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
1 tomato
1 onion
1 cup orange juice
salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley
1 lb white fish
1 tsp capers
3/4 cup olives

South American Fish Stew is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings a unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients. This recipe combines the tanginess of orange juice, the heat of red hot chili peppers, and the savory depth of fish sauce to create a mouth-watering stew that highlights the vibrant flavors of South American cuisine. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this stew is sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Mince the garlic cloves, seed and finely chop the red hot chili peppers, chop the tomato, and finely chop the onion.
- Cut the white fish into chunks and set aside.
- Slice the olives if they are not pre-sliced.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic, red hot chili peppers, and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is fragrant (about 5 minutes).

3. Simmer Base:
- Add the chopped tomato, fish sauce, orange juice, and the cinnamon stick to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the mixture to cook and meld together for about 10-15 minutes.

4. Season the Stew:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add Fish and Flavorings:
- Carefully add the chunks of white fish to the pot.
- Add the capers and sliced olives.
- Stir gently to mix and coat the fish with the stew.

6. Cook the Fish:
- Allow the stew to simmer gently, uncovered, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (about 10 minutes). Be careful not to over-stir so as to keep the fish pieces intact.

7. Finishing Touches:
- Remove the cinnamon stick.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

8. Serve:
- Ladle the South American Fish Stew into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with fresh bread or over a bed of rice if desired.

Your South American Fish Stew is now ready to be served. The combination of fresh white fish, spicy chili peppers, and rich tomato and onion base promises a delightful culinary experience. Garnished with fresh parsley and paired with your favorite sides, this dish is a celebration of South American flavors that will transport your taste buds south of the equator. Enjoy your flavorful and wholesome homemade stew!

South american fish stew FAQ:

What is the best way to tell if the fish is done in the stew?

The fish is done cooking when it flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to maintain its tenderness.

Can I substitute different types of fish in this stew?

Yes, you can use other firm white fish like cod or halibut as substitutes for the white fish in this recipe. Just ensure they are fresh.

How should I store leftovers of this fish stew?

Store leftover fish stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

What size pot or Dutch oven should I use for this recipe?

A large pot or Dutch oven (at least 4-5 quarts) is recommended to comfortably hold all the ingredients and allow for proper simmering.

Is it possible to make this stew spicier?

To increase the heat, add more red hot chili peppers or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

Tips:

- Ensure your white fish is fresh to maximize the flavor of the stew.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of red hot chili peppers based on your heat preference.

- Let the stew simmer longer to allow the flavors to meld if you have extra time.

- Remove the cinnamon stick before serving to avoid an overpowering spice note.

- Use a fish with a firm texture to prevent it from breaking apart during cooking.

- Serve the stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

- Consider adding other seafood like shrimp or mussels for a more varied texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 2.85g
Sugar 10g
Fat 12g

South american fish stew