Spicy Shrimp and Fennel Cioppino

Spicy Shrimp and Fennel Cioppino is a vibrant and flavorful seafood stew that brings the essence of the Italian coast to your kitchen. This dish features succulent shrimp, tender fennel, and a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices. The combination of fresh ingredients and spices creates a delightful balance of heat and sweetness, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or a special occasion with friends.

Served with crusty bread, this cioppino is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delectable broth. The preparation is simple, and the dish can be on the table in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. This cioppino isn't only packed with flavor but also offers a variety of textures, with the crunch of fennel and the tender shrimp melding beautifully in the warm broth.

With its bold flavors and comforting nature, Spicy Shrimp and Fennel Cioppino is sure to impress seafood lovers and novices alike.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 large fennel bulb, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced fennel, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, red pepper flakes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After 10 minutes, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot. Stir gently and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
4. Taste the cioppino and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer more heat, add additional red pepper flakes to your liking. Once seasoned to your taste, remove the pot from heat.
5. Ladle the cioppino into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping into the flavorful broth.

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