What is Zarzuela de Mariscos?
Zarzuela de Mariscos is a traditional Spanish seafood stew that brings together a rich variety of seafood such as shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, and white fish in a flavorful tomato and saffron sauce. Originating from the Catalan coast, this dish is named after “Zarzuela,” a type of Spanish opera—because like the opera, it’s a beautiful blend of dramatic flavors and bold performances from the sea.
Often compared to the French Bouillabaisse, Zarzuela is the Spanish version of luxury seafood comfort food, perfect for special occasions or elegant dinners.
🧾 Ingredients of Zarzuela de Mariscos
The beauty of this dish lies in its variety of fresh seafood. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
Seafood (adjust as per availability):
- 200g white fish fillets (hake or cod, cut into chunks)
- 200g shrimp or prawns (peeled, with tails on)
- 150g squid or cuttlefish (sliced into rings)
- 150g mussels (cleaned)
- 150g clams (cleaned)
- 1 lobster or langoustines (optional, for a luxurious touch)
For the sauce:
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (grated or pureed)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads (soaked in warm water)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fish or seafood stock (approx. 500ml)
Optional:
- Crushed almonds or picada (garlic-bread-almond mixture) for thickening
- A pinch of cayenne for heat
👩🍳 How to Make Zarzuela de Mariscos – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pan or cazuela (clay pot).
- Add the onion and cook until soft, then stir in the garlic and tomato paste.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- Add white wine, saffron water, paprika, and bay leaf.
- Pour in the fish stock, bring to a simmer, and let it reduce slightly.
- Add salt, pepper, and crushed almonds or picada if using.
Step 3: Add the Seafood
- First, add the squid rings and cook for 5 minutes.
- Then, add fish fillets, shrimp, mussels, and clams.
- Cover the pot and cook for 6–8 minutes or until the mussels and clams open up.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
- Taste the stew and adjust seasoning.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, white rice, or roasted potatoes.
📖 History and Origin
Zarzuela de Mariscos is a dish with deep roots in Catalonia, especially in Barcelona and along the Costa Brava. It reflects the region’s Mediterranean identity, showcasing Spain’s rich bounty from the sea.
Like the Zarzuela opera, this dish is bold, colorful, and full of drama—each ingredient plays a role, creating a harmonious melody of taste and texture.
✅ Why You’ll Love This Dish
✔️ Bursting with rich seafood flavors
✔️ Elegant and perfect for special occasions
✔️ Authentic Spanish experience in one bowl
✔️ Customizable with available seafood
✔️ Gluten-free and low-carb if served without bread
📌 Cooking Tips
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and aroma.
- Don’t overcook seafood—it should be just tender.
- Saffron is essential—don’t skip it; it adds depth and color.
- You can make the sauce in advance and add seafood just before serving.
🔗 Related Recipes on Saborespana.es
Love Spanish seafood? You’ll also enjoy our recipes for Merluza a la Koskeraand Bacalao al Pil Pil, both authentic, rich, and perfect for seafood lovers.
🌊 Final Thoughts
Zarzuela de Mariscos is more than a seafood stew—it’s a celebration of Spanish coastal cuisine. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a gourmet experience, this dish delivers unmatched flavor, elegance, and authenticity.
Ready to try it? Grab the freshest seafood you can find and let your kitchen sing with the flavors of Spain! 🎶