Jamie Oliver Fish Stew 15 Minute Meals Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew from his 15 Minute Meals book is a flavorful, quick-to-make seafood dish that combines fresh fish, tomatoes and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Despite the short prep time, the result is a hearty, vibrant dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s the kind of recipe designed for busy home cooks who want something comforting but don’t have all day to spend in the kitchen.

In just 15 minutes, you’re able to prepare a one-pot stew that’s rich, aromatic and packed with healthy, fresh ingredients. Think juicy fish fillets, tender veggies and a broth that’s both tangy and savory. This meal is a great introduction to quick, healthy cooking that doesn’t rely on takeout or heavily processed food.

Jamie Oliver Fish Stew 15 Minute Meals Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The ingredient list for Jamie’s Fish Stew is both accessible and fresh. You can find most of these ingredients in your local supermarket or farmer’s market. Here’s what you’ll need:

• White fish fillets (such as cod, haddock or bass): The fish is the star here, so it’s important to use fresh, firm fish that will hold up well in the stew. The fillets are usually cut into chunks to make them easy to cook and eat.
• Olive oil: You’ll use this to sauté your aromatics and start the base of the stew.
• Garlic and onions: These form the flavor foundation, providing that savory, aromatic base that’s essential in stews.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or tinned, tomatoes provide a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that balances the richness of the fish. The tomatoes also add body to the broth.
• Bell peppers: A colorful addition, bell peppers bring a subtle sweetness and crunch to the stew.
• Vegetable stock: This helps create the liquid base of the stew. You can go with a low-sodium version to control the salt level or use homemade stock if you have it.
• Chili (optional): Jamie often adds a little kick with some fresh chili to give the dish some heat. You can skip this if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a layer of freshness that contrasts the cooked, hearty ingredients.
• Lemon: A squeeze of lemon adds acidity and brightness, rounding out the dish and making the flavors pop.

Equipment Needed

Since this dish is all about speed, you don’t need a ton of equipment to make it happen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A large pan or skillet: This will be your cooking vessel. It needs to be large enough to hold all your ingredients comfortably, especially the fish and stock.
• A chopping board and knife: To chop your veggies and herbs, you’ll need a sturdy board and a sharp knife.
• A wooden spoon: You’ll use this for stirring the stew as it cooks, helping to break down the tomatoes and integrate all the flavors.
• A citrus squeezer (optional): If you want to get every last drop of juice from your lemon, a citrus squeezer can be handy, though it’s not strictly necessary.

With just a few basic kitchen tools, you’ll be able to prepare the entire meal in under 15 minutes!

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew 15 Minute Meals

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious fish stew:

1. Heat the oil: Start by heating a good splash of olive oil in your large pan over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add your chopped onions and garlic, stirring frequently to soften them. This should only take a minute or two.
2. Add the veggies: Toss in your chopped bell peppers and continue cooking until they soften. At this point, you’ll start to smell the fragrant onions and garlic mixing with the sweet peppers.
3. Tomatoes and stock: Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned if you’re in a rush) and cook them for a minute until they start to break down. Pour in your vegetable stock. Let everything simmer gently and you’ll notice the stew starting to come together.
4. Add the fish: Cut your white fish fillets into chunks and gently drop them into the simmering broth. Stir carefully to coat them in the flavorful liquid. Cover the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the fish is cooked through.
5. Season and finish: Once the fish is ready, season the stew with salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice. If you like some heat, add a finely chopped chili. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
6. Serve: Dish it up immediately, making sure each bowl gets plenty of broth, fish and veggies.

And that’s it! It’s so simple but the flavors come together beautifully. In just 15 minutes, you’ve got a hearty, warming meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew taught me that quick cooking doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. Even with a relatively simple list of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels vibrant and filling. I also learned the power of using fresh, high-quality ingredients-especially the fish and vegetables. which really shine when cooked quickly and simply.

Another key takeaway is the versatility of the dish. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have available or what’s in season. For example, you could use different kinds of fish or add other veggies like zucchini or spinach. The chili and lemon are optional but they really elevate the stew with extra zing.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew (15 Minute Meals)

Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew is quick, delicious and packed with flavor but if you’re in the mood to shake things up a bit, here are a few tweaks that can elevate the dish.

1. Add a Bit of Spice: If you want more of a kick, throw in a finely chopped red chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper. A splash of tabasco or even a dollop of harissa paste can infuse the stew with a deeper, smoky heat. If you’re into milder heat, a dash of smoked paprika can also do wonders without overwhelming the flavor.
2. Swap the Fish: Jamie uses a variety of white fish (like cod or haddock) in his stew but you can totally switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. A firm fish like salmon or tuna could add a richer texture. Alternatively, shellfish like prawns, mussels or clams can bring a new dimension to the dish. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly since shellfish cooks faster than white fish.
3. Extra Veggies: To make the stew heartier or pack in more nutrients, consider adding some extra vegetables. Spinach or kale would work well, adding both color and a lovely earthy flavor. You could also throw in some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added texture. Keep in mind that potatoes take a little longer to cook, so you may need to give them a head start in the pot.
4. Herb Variations: Fresh herbs can make all the difference in a fish stew. Jamie uses basil and parsley but don’t shy away from trying dill, tarragon or thyme for a slightly different aromatic profile. A handful of cilantro can give it a fresh, zesty lift, especially if you’re leaning into a more Mediterranean or Southeast Asian flavor direction.
5. Make it Creamier: If you want a richer, creamier base, consider stirring in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of crème fraîche at the end. The coconut milk will give the stew a tropical flair and the crème fraîche adds a velvety texture. Alternatively, a spoonful of mascarpone can also add creaminess with a hint of sweetness.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you’ve got leftover fish stew, lucky you! But storing fish stew can be a bit tricky since seafood doesn’t always hold up well after reheating. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:

1. Cool Down Quickly: Let your fish stew cool down to room temperature before putting it in the fridge. This helps prevent any bacteria growth. Ideally, you want to store the stew in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking.
2. Consume Within 1-2 Days: Fish doesn’t have a long shelf life in the fridge. You’ll want to eat your leftover stew within a day or two. After that, the texture and flavor can degrade and the fish will lose that fresh taste. If you can’t finish it within that time, freezing is your next best option.
3. Freezing the Stew: If you want to freeze your stew, make sure you leave out any delicate fish or shellfish. They don’t freeze well and can turn rubbery once thawed. You can freeze the broth and vegetables separately and then cook fresh fish when you reheat it. Or, you can make an entirely new batch of fish to add when reheating.
4. Reheating: Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the fish. Since seafood is already cooked, you don’t need to bring it to a boil. just warm it up slowly. You could also reheat it in the microwave but be careful not to overdo it. Microwaving for short intervals and stirring between each interval helps keep the fish from drying out.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew?

A hearty fish stew is delicious on its own but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even more. Here are some great ideas:

1. Crusty Bread: There’s something about dipping a chunk of warm, crusty bread into a bowl of stew. Opt for sourdough, baguette or any artisan bread that’s thick enough to soak up all the flavorful broth. You could also toast it with a bit of garlic butter to make it extra indulgent.
2. Rice: A simple side of white rice or even brown rice can help soak up the stew’s rich flavors. You could also consider a fragrant rice like basmati or jasmine for a bit of aromatic flair. If you want to add more texture, try quinoa or couscous.
3. Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew. Consider ingredients like arugula, mixed greens or spinach, with some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes and red onions. A lemony or mustard-based dressing would provide a refreshing contrast to the stew’s savory flavors.
4. Grilled Veggies: If you want to add some more substance without overloading the meal, grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers or asparagus pair beautifully. Their smoky char can complement the freshness of the fish stew.
5. Wine Pairings: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or Vermentino, works wonderfully with fish stew. If you’re more of a red wine drinker, a light, chilled Pinot Noir could work too. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a citrusy sparkling water or an iced tea with lemon will do the trick.

FAQs

What Fish Can I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew?

You can use any firm white fish like cod, haddock, or pollock. If you’re after something more sustainable, try mackerel or hake.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Fish Stew Ahead Of Time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance. Once it’s cooked, the fish may lose its texture if stored for too long.

Is This Recipe Spicy?

It has a bit of a kick from the chili, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the heat to your taste by using less chili or omitting it.