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Caldeirada

A rustic Portuguese fish stew of firm white fish, tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers, perfumed with garlic and saffron.

⏱ 30 minPrep time
🔥 40 minCook time
🍽 6Servings
🏷 Portuguese KitchenCategory
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Caldeirada recipe photo

Caldeirada is the fisherman’s stew of the Portuguese coast — firm white fish and shellfish layered with potatoes, peppers and tomatoes in a rich, saffron-scented broth. It is a one-pot feast built on whatever the boats brought home that morning.

Unlike a delicate bouillabaisse, caldeirada is sturdy and generous, the fish gently poached until it flakes. Serve it in deep bowls with crusty bread and plenty of the fragrant broth, poured from the pot at the table for maximum effect.

Step by stepInstructions

  1. Layer the potatoes, onions, peppers and tomatoes in a large pot, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
  2. Lay the fish and shrimp on top and add the garlic, bay leaf and saffron.
  3. Pour in the wine and enough water or fish stock to nearly cover, then drizzle with the olive oil.
  4. Cover and simmer gently until the fish is opaque and the potatoes tender, 25-30 minutes.
  5. Add the clams in the last 8 minutes and cook until they open.
  6. Scatter with parsley, rest 10 minutes, and serve in deep bowls.

💡 Chef tips & storage

Layer, don't stir — the stew keeps its shape and beauty. Keep the boil low and gentle so the fish stays tender.

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Recipe details

Prep30 min
Cook40 min
Servings6
CategoryPortuguese Kitchen
PublishedAugust 17, 2026
Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes

Hi, I'm Emily 🧡

Hi, I'm Emily — the cook behind My Comfort Recipes. Simple, tested comfort food for real weeknights, written down the way grandma would. Pull up a chair. More about me →