Best Dungeness Crab Cioppino Recipe | Flavorful Seafood Stew
Dungeness Crab Cioppino Recipe: A Hearty Seafood Stew
Dungeness Crab Cioppino is a flavorful seafood stew that combines the best of the ocean in one pot. With Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams, scallops, and white fish, this recipe delivers a rich, satisfying meal perfect for seafood lovers. Inspired by Italian cuisine and popularized in San Francisco, cioppino is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.
Why This is the Best Dungeness Crab Recipe
A Symphony of Flavors
The sweet, succulent Dungeness crab pairs beautifully with the briny clams, tender scallops, and rich tomato broth. Add the heat from jalapeños and a touch of red wine, and you’ve got a dish that hits all the right notes.
Health Benefits of Dungeness Crab Cioppino
This seafood stew isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:
- High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes heart and brain health.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Dungeness crab is a great source of B vitamins, zinc, and selenium.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), incorporating seafood into your diet regularly can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Ingredients for Dungeness Crab Cioppino
Here’s what you’ll need to create this incredible seafood dish:
- 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves (6 finely chopped, 2 whole)
- 3 jalapeños, seeded and minced
- 2 red bell peppers, finely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1 28-ounce can peeled tomatoes, finely chopped with juices reserved
- 4 8-ounce bottles clam broth
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed
- 4 steamed Dungeness crab legs, about 2 pounds each
- 2 pounds firm white fish fillets (e.g., halibut or cod), cut into chunks
- 2 pounds large shrimp, shelled and deveined
- 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed
- 1 pound sea scallops, halved if large
- Crusty bread, for serving
Pro Tip: Use high-quality crab for the best flavor. Try Dungeness Crab Clusters or Whole Dungeness Crab.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dungeness Crab Cioppino
1. Start the Base
Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, jalapeños, bell peppers, onion, and bay leaf. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add red wine and reduce until almost evaporated, about 1 minute.
2. Build the Broth
Add the chopped tomatoes with their juices, clam broth, and water. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the broth is slightly thickened and reduced.
3. Make the Basil Puree
In a food processor, combine basil leaves, whole garlic cloves, 1/2 cup olive oil, and crushed red pepper. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Prepare the Dungeness Crab
Clean and quarter the Dungeness crabs:
- Remove the top shells and discard the lungs and brown insides.
- Rinse the bodies under cold water and cut into quarters.
Tip: For convenience, you can use pre-cleaned Dungeness Crab Meat.
5. Cook the Seafood
Add crab pieces and clams to the pot. Cover and cook over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the clams start to open.
- Add fish, shrimp, mussels, and scallops to the pot.
- Return the crab legs to the broth and cook for another 8 minutes until all seafood is cooked through and clams/mussels are open.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the cioppino into deep bowls. Drizzle each serving with basil puree and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Pass the remaining basil puree at the table for added flavor.
Why Use Dungeness Crab in Cioppino?
Dungeness crab is sweet, tender, and perfect for cioppino’s rich broth. It elevates the dish with its premium flavor and makes it an unforgettable meal.
Looking to buy high-quality crab? Check out these options:
FAQs About Dungeness Crab Cioppino
1. Can I make cioppino ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the broth ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the seafood when reheating to keep it fresh.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftover cioppino in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the seafood.
3. Can I use frozen seafood?
Absolutely! Thaw the seafood in the refrigerator and drain well before adding it to the stew.
4. Is cioppino gluten-free?
Yes, the stew itself is gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free bread if needed.
5. What wine pairs well with cioppino?
A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with cioppino.
Why Buy Dungeness Crab Online?
Shopping for seafood online ensures access to high-quality, sustainable crab delivered straight to your door. Try these premium options from Global Seafoods:
Watch and Learn:
For step-by-step video tutorials and seafood recipes, subscribe to the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel.
Conclusion
Dungeness Crab Cioppino is the ultimate seafood stew. With its rich broth, fresh crab, and an assortment of seafood, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your dinner game, this recipe is sure to impress.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy Dungeness crab? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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