Crab Cioppino is a hearty seafood stew inspired by the Italian-American fishermen of San Francisco. Rich in garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, this dish is traditionally made with a variety of seafood, though this handwritten version emphasizes crab. Its bold flavors and comforting warmth have made cioppino a cherished dish for communal meals, especially during cold months or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig rosemary ( or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 5-6 leaves Swiss chard
- Peel of one stalk of celery (chopped)
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 2 cans water (use tomato can)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 whole live crabs
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- In a skillet, sauté parsley, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender. Add bay leaf, rosemary, swiss chard, and celery peel.
Step 2: Add Tomato Base
- Stir in tomato sauce and water. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare Crab
- Break the back of the live crab. Wash thoroughly. Remove legs, cut down the center, and then crack open.
Step 4: Cook Crab in Sauce
- Add the cleaned crab to the tomato mixture. Add extra water to ensure crab is covered. Simmer for 1 hour.
Tips
- Substitute shrimp or clams for a mixed seafood version.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use seafood stock instead of water for deeper flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a hearty meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 37kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 0.1mgSodium: 426mgPotassium: 414mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2966IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 43mgIron: 2mg
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