Brudet, also known as Brodetto, is a traditional Croatian fish stew that is popular along the Dalmatian coast. It is a hearty and flavorful dish made with a variety of fish and shellfish, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Brudet is typically served with polenta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Ingredients
For the Fish Stew:
- 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) mixed fish (such as monkfish, sea bass, or red snapper), cleaned and cut into chunks
- 500 grams (about 1 lb) shrimp or prawns, cleaned
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
For Serving:
- Polenta or crusty bread
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Preparing the Fish and Seafood
- Clean and Cut: Clean the fish and shellfish, removing any scales, bones, and shells as necessary. Cut the fish into large chunks.
Cooking the Brudet
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to break down.
- Add the Wine and Herbs: Pour in the white wine and stir in the dried oregano, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the fish or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Fish: Carefully add the chunks of fish to the pot. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is almost cooked through.
- Add the Shellfish: Add the shrimp or prawns to the pot and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shellfish are cooked and the fish is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Brudet
- Prepare the Polenta: Cook the polenta according to package instructions or prepare crusty bread for serving.
- Serve the Stew: Ladle the brudet into serving bowls, making sure each bowl gets a good mix of fish and shellfish.
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
- Enjoy: Serve the brudet hot, accompanied by polenta or crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
Cultural Significance
Brudet is a beloved dish along the Croatian coast and is a staple of Dalmatian cuisine. It reflects the region’s close connection to the Adriatic Sea and its abundant seafood. Brudet is traditionally made with whatever fresh fish and shellfish are available, making it a versatile and adaptable dish.
This fish stew is often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions, and it is a favorite among both locals and visitors. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make brudet a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the best of Croatian coastal cuisine
Brudet is a delicious and hearty Croatian fish stew that captures the rich flavors of the Adriatic Sea. The combination of fresh fish, shellfish, and a rich tomato-based sauce makes it a perfect dish for any seafood lover. Try making this traditional Croatian dish at home and enjoy the authentic taste of brudet.