Slow Cooker Seafood Stew

Slow Cooker Seafood Stew

We love using our slow cooker and make a hearty stew or thick, rich soup. We do this at least twice a week year-round.  Our crockpot gets such a workout that our kids even come up with their slow cooker recipes. This stew is one of our new favorites. It is hearty, spicy, and tastes amazing. We hope that this Slow Cooker Seafood Stew recipe post inspires you.

Slow Cooker Seafood Stew

Ingredients

• 1/8th cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 med Vidalia onions, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups chopped celery
• 4 medium-sized carrots (we used heirloom purple, white, and orange), chopped
• 1 cup of red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped fine
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 pound fingerling potatoes, sliced 1/2 inch thick
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, chopped into 3/4 inch pieces
• 1 tbsp chopped thyme
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 3 cans (medium) fire-roasted chopped tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth (we love Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base)
• 2 cups fresh green beans
• 1 package of Applegate Farms turkey Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp (we used Trader Joe's)

Slow Cooker Seafood Stew

Directions

1. In a crockpot on saute setting, add the oil, onions, celery, carrots, bell peppers, jalapeno pepper, garlic, and potato. Saute until the veggies begin to sweat and soften.
2. Add the chicken and saute for a few minutes more. Then add all of the herbs and spices, saute for 30 seconds, and turn the crockpot to low setting.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, and green beans.
4. Cook for around 6 hours.
5. Add the sausage and shrimp and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Eat and enjoy crockpot winter stew.

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History of Seafood Stew

Seafood stew, a delightful combination of seafood and broth, boasts a rich and diverse history stretching back centuries. While its exact origin remains a delightful mystery, below is a dive into its past. 

Early Beginnings: The concept of stews dates back to ancient civilizations. From Mesopotamian clay tablets detailing fish stews to Amazonian tribes using turtle shells as vessels, the foundation for seafood stews likely existed millennia ago. Different cultures around the world developed their variations, likely influenced by available ingredients and cooking methods. Mediterranean influences include bouillabaisse from France and cacciucco from Italy, while chowders emerged in Europe and later migrated to the Americas.

Regional Variations: European stews often featured shellfish and white fish, simmered in broth with vegetables and herbs. Bouillabaisse, with its Provençal roots, uses a variety of seafood and typically includes a tomato-based broth. Early settlers in North America likely adapted European stews, using readily available seafood like clams and lobsters. Chowders gained popularity, evolving into regional variations incorporating local ingredients like corn and tomatoes. In various Asian cultures, seafood stews emerged with distinct flavors. Tom Yum Goong from Thailand utilizes lemongrass and chilies for a spicy kick, while Japanese Nabemono offers countless regional variations featuring local seafood and vegetables.

Evolution and Adaptation: As cultures interacted, seafood stews evolved. Portuguese explorers brought their stews to Africa, influencing local dishes. Similarly, Chinese immigrants introduced their variations to America, enriching the landscape. Today, seafood stews enjoy global popularity with endless interpretations. From classic French bouillabaisse to creamy New England clam chowder, variations celebrate diverse flavors and ingredients.

Seafood stews represent a global culinary tradition with deep roots across diverse cultures. Influences from Europe, Asia, and the Americas have shaped regional variations, showcasing unique flavor profiles. The dish continues to evolve, adapting to local ingredients and preferences while offering a comforting and delicious culinary experience.

Slow Cooker Seafood Stew

Whether you need a winter vegetable stew, the best winter stews, or even hearty stews for winter, our winter stew in slow cooker is perfect to feed the entire family or to freeze half for future meals.  We hope that this Slow Cooker Seafood Stew recipe. Happy cooking!