The history of Cioppino is an interesting one. It is a dish that originated in the fishing villages of the Ligurian Sea, located off the coast of Italy. This particular dish, which is also known as Cioppin in Italian, was created by the fishermen who used whatever ingredients they had on hand to make a hearty, flavorful soup.
The original recipe was made with clams, mussels, and other seafood in a tomato broth. It was a simple but delicious dish that provided a meal for the fishermen and their families.
As Italian immigrants made their way to America, they brought the recipe with them and it became a staple in the Italian-American community. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, calamari, and fish, as well as vegetables like onions, garlic, celery, and bell peppers.
Making a great Cioppino at home is not difficult. Here’s what you’ll need:
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 2 cups of white wine
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 pound of clams
• 1 pound of mussels
• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound of calamari, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley and basil, chopped, for garnish
To start, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and bell pepper and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the oregano and basil and stir to combine. Add the diced tomatoes, white wine, and chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari to the pot and simmer until the seafood is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Season the Cioppino with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with the fresh herbs.
For an optional way to add some heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cioppino is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to please. Serve it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
How about some other great soups? Check out these awesome soup recipes.