Craving a Filipino classic that’s both hearty and comforting? Look no further than Fish Caldereta! This rich and flavorful stew, traditionally made with meat, gets a delicious seafood twist with tender fish fillets. Our recipe simplifies the cooking process, making it easy for anyone to create a restaurant-quality dish in their own kitchen. This version of Fish Caldereta is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be foolproof. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the taste of authentic Filipino comfort food with a delightful Fish Caldereta.
Before we jump into the detailed instructions, let’s take a look at a quick overview of the recipe. This will give you a good understanding of the time commitment and difficulty level involved.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Now, before we get to the ingredients let us first discuss the nutritional information of a serving of Fish Caldereta. Remember that this is just an estimate, and the exact values will vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the portion sizes.
Nutrition Per Serving (Estimate)
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-450 kcal |
| Protein | 30-40g |
| Fat | 15-25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
Now, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients to make our delicious Fish Caldereta. Make sure to measure them accurately for the best results.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fish Fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi) | 1.5 lbs, cut into 2-inch pieces |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1, chopped |
| Green Bell Pepper | 1, chopped |
| Potatoes | 2 medium, peeled and cubed |
| Carrots | 2 medium, peeled and sliced |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 (15 ounce) can |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Beef Broth (or Fish Broth) | 1 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Bay Leaves | 2 |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green Peas (optional) | 1/2 cup, frozen or fresh |
| Cheddar Cheese (optional, for topping) | 1/2 cup, shredded |
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Gently pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season them with salt and pepper. This will help the fish to brown nicely and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Build the Base: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes, until they are slightly softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Cooking the tomato paste helps to deepen its flavor.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef (or fish) broth. Stir well to combine. Add the soy sauce, sugar, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor, while the sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Simmer the Vegetables: Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the simmering sauce. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Make sure the vegetables are cooked through, as they form a crucial part of the dish.
- Incorporate the Fish: Gently add the seasoned fish fillets to the pot. Submerge them in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry and rubbery.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, stir in the green peas during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds a touch of sweetness and color to the Fish Caldereta.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the Fish Caldereta into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese before serving. This is a matter of personal preference and is not a traditional ingredient.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot over steamed white rice. The rice perfectly soaks up the delicious sauce of the Fish Caldereta.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Fish Caldereta, here are a few extra tips and tricks to elevate your culinary experience.
- Fish Selection: Choose firm white fish fillets that hold their shape well during cooking. Cod, tilapia, mahi-mahi, or even salmon are excellent choices. Consider the availability and your personal preference when selecting the fish.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to your Fish Caldereta, such as corn kernels, chickpeas, or even sliced mushrooms. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce. Be cautious with the amount, as a little goes a long way.
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stirring it into the simmering sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: Fish Caldereta can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually meld together and improve over time. Just be careful not to overcook the fish when reheating.
- Storage: Store leftover Fish Caldereta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why this recipe works:
This Fish Caldereta recipe works because it focuses on building layers of flavor. The sautéed aromatics, tomato paste, and soy sauce create a rich and savory base for the dish. Using beef or fish broth adds depth and complexity to the sauce. The addition of vegetables like potatoes and carrots makes it a hearty and satisfying meal. And finally, the delicate fish fillets cook quickly and absorb all the wonderful flavors of the sauce.
Health benefits:
Fish Caldereta can be a relatively healthy dish, depending on the ingredients you use. Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to be mindful of the sodium content in the soy sauce and broth. You can use low-sodium versions of these ingredients to reduce the overall sodium level.
The Origin of Caldereta:
Caldereta is a stew that originated in Spain. However, it has become a staple dish in Filipino cuisine, with many variations. The name “Caldereta” comes from the Spanish word “Caldera”, which means cauldron. Traditionally, Caldereta is made with meat, such as goat, beef, or pork. Our Fish Caldereta is a modern twist on this classic dish, using fish as the main protein.
Variations of Caldereta:
While Fish Caldereta is a delicious and unique take on the classic dish, there are many other variations to explore. Some popular variations include:
- Beef Caldereta: The most traditional version, made with beef chuck or brisket.
- Goat Caldereta (Kalderetang Kambing): A richer and more flavorful version, often served during special occasions.
- Chicken Caldereta (Kalderetang Manok): A lighter and more accessible version, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Pork Caldereta (Kalderetang Baboy): Another popular version, using pork shoulder or belly.
No matter which version you choose, Caldereta is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please. So, go ahead and try our Fish Caldereta recipe today and experience the taste of authentic Filipino cuisine!
Enjoy your homemade Fish Caldereta! We hope you found this recipe easy to follow and delicious. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #EasyFishCaldereta. Happy cooking!
