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Brodet (Croatia)

An authentic recipe for traditional Croatian Brodet, featuring a rich, aromatic wine-and-tomato base loaded with fresh mixed seafood.

Level Medium Prep 20 min Cook 40 min Servings 4 Score 4.9/10
Ready in
60 min

Makes 4 servings

Prep 20m
Cook 40m
Level Medium

About this recipe

An authentic recipe for traditional Croatian Brodet, featuring a rich, aromatic wine-and-tomato base loaded with fresh mixed seafood.

A classic Dalmatian fish stew bursting with Mediterranean herbs, wine, and fresh catch.

Ingredients

Seafood

Base

Sauce

Seasoning

Equipment

  • Wide heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven Essential for simmering without stirring
  • Chef's knife For chopping vegetables and cutting fish
  • Cutting board

Instructions

  1. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté slowly until soft and translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dry white wine, and fish stock. Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper, then bring to a gentle simmer.

  4. Carefully arrange the chunks of firm white fish into the pot in a single layer. Do not stir vigorously to avoid breaking the fish.

  5. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, gently swirling the pot occasionally.

    30 min
  6. Add the shellfish (mussels and prawns) during the last 10 minutes until the shells open and the seafood is cooked through.

  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories 340
Protein 36g
Carbs 14g
Fat 14g
Fiber 2g
Sugar 5g
Sodium 520mg
Serving Size 1 serving

Cooking Timeline

Prep 20 min
Cook 40 min
Total 60 min

Recipe Scorecard

Overall 9.5 /10
Expert 4.9 95% conf.
  • Taste 9.7
  • Presentation 9.2
  • Nutrition 8.8
  • Value 9.0
  • Instructions 9.4
  • Ingredients 9.3
  • Time Accuracy 9.2
  • Difficulty 7.5
  • Would Make Again 9.4

Expert Review

Verdict

An exceptional coastal Croatian classic that delivers deep, savory ocean flavors in a comforting stew.

Pros

  • Rich umami flavors
  • Uses fresh seafood
  • Wonderful aromatic depth

Cons

  • Requires gentle handling so fish does not break apart

Overview

A classic Dalmatian fish stew bursting with Mediterranean herbs, wine, and fresh catch.

AI Insights

Summary

An authentic recipe for traditional Croatian Brodet, featuring a rich, aromatic wine-and-tomato base loaded with fresh mixed seafood.

Tips

  • Never stir the stew with a spoon once the fish is added; instead, gently swirl the pot by its handles to prevent breaking the fish chunks
  • Use a combination of firm-fleshed fish and shellfish for the best depth of flavor
  • Serve over warm polenta or with thick slices of crusty artisanal bread to soak up the delicious broth

Substitutions

  • Dry white wine → Vegetable broth mixed with a splash of lemon juice
  • Canned crushed tomatoes → Fresh ripe peeled tomatoes

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Pairing

  • Warm creamy polenta
  • A glass of chilled dry white wine like Croatian Pošip

AI Cooking Assistant

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FAQ

Can I use frozen fish for Brodet?
Fresh fish is strongly recommended for the best traditional flavor and texture, but firm thawed white fish can be used in a pinch.
What is the traditional accompaniment for Brodet?
It is traditionally served with polenta, which absorbs the rich, flavorful tomato and fish broth.

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