Saffron Seafood Soup
Saffron seafood soup is a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines the delicate flavors of fresh seafood with the luxurious essence of saffron. The golden hue imparted by the saffron threads adds an exotic touch, while the richness of the broth envelops the seafood in a soothing, flavorful soup.
Perfect for seafood lovers, this soup features a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, mussels, and fish, combined with aromatic vegetables and fragrant herbs. Saffron, known for its slightly sweet and floral flavor, elevates this soup to a dish that’s not only comforting but also elegant and refined. It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner when you want to indulge in something special.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
1 cup dry white wine
4 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
1/4 tsp saffron threads (soaked in 2 tbsp warm water)
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp ground white pepper
Salt, to taste
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1/2 lb firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Saffron Seafood Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Wine and Broth
Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.
Add the seafood stock, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the saffron (including the soaking liquid), bay leaf, dried thyme, paprika, white pepper, and salt. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 3: Add the Seafood
Add the shrimp, mussels, and fish pieces to the pot. Stir gently to combine, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink, the mussels open, and the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily. Be sure to discard any mussels that do not open during cooking.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.
Step 4: Add Cream and Lemon
Stir in the heavy cream to create a rich, velvety texture in the soup. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, just until everything is heated through.
Add the lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the cream.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving contains a variety of seafood.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest, and enjoy this luxurious seafood soup!
Chef’s Notes
Saffron: Saffron is the key to this dish’s unique flavor and golden color. Be sure to soak the saffron in warm water before adding it to the soup to release its essential oils and full flavor. A little saffron goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
Seafood Variety: You can mix and match your favorite seafood depending on availability and preference. Clams, scallops, or lobster can also be added for extra variety. Be sure to adjust cooking times for different types of seafood.
Broth: Homemade seafood stock makes a big difference in flavor. If you don’t have time to make your own, store-bought seafood or vegetable stock will work just fine.
Cream: If you prefer a lighter version of this soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version, which will also lend a subtle sweetness that complements the saffron.
Spice Level: The paprika in this recipe adds mild warmth, but if you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped fresh chili.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 280
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Vitamin A: 35% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 6% of the Daily Value
Iron: 20% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Saffron seafood soup is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the delicate sweetness of fresh seafood with the luxurious flavor of saffron. The aromatic broth, the tender seafood, and the creamy texture create a sophisticated soup that’s perfect for a special dinner or celebration. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this soup offers a taste of the sea in every spoonful, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.