National Dish Uruguay: Seafood Stew (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Cazuela de Mariscos, Uruguay’s celebration of the Atlantic in a single bowl! This warming seafood stew gathers fresh fish, prawns and mussels in a fragrant, gently spiced broth, lifted by garlic, sweet pepper and a scattering of fresh herbs. It is the kind of dish that brings the salt-air freshness of the coast straight to your kitchen table — comforting enough for a quiet supper, yet impressive enough for guests.
About Seafood Stew
Cazuela de Mariscos is far more than a meal; it is a genuine experience of Uruguayan cooking. This hearty seafood stew unites the freshness of the Atlantic with time-honoured kitchen techniques. What makes it so special is the way a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something nourishing and full of flavour. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices gives the dish its unmistakable character, while the medley of fish and shellfish keeps every spoonful interesting.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200g fresh white fish (such as cod or halibut)
- 150g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 100g mussels, cleaned
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 500ml fish stock
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley and coriander, to garnish
- Olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To prepare an authentic Cazuela de Mariscos, choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference. It is well worth a trip to your local fishmonger for the freshest fish and shellfish, as the quality of the seafood is decisive for the final flavour. Make sure the mussels are tightly closed and the prawns have a fresh, healthy colour. The fresh herbs should smell bright and look perky too, so you can get the very best from your dish. Sourcing good seafood is a habit shared with classics like Arroz con Mariscos.
Preparing the dish
Preparation for Cazuela de Mariscos is both straightforward and important for the flavour that follows. Begin by cleaning and prepping all your ingredients so the cooking runs smoothly from start to finish. Dice the onion and the red pepper, chop the garlic and ready the seafood. Getting this groundwork done in advance lets the aromas develop fully while you cook, and keeps the whole process calm and unhurried.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a little olive oil in a large pan and add the onion together with the garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, until the onion turns translucent.
- Add the diced red pepper and cook briefly until it softens.
- Pour in the fish stock and bring the mixture to the boil. Let it simmer for around 5 minutes.
- Now add the seafood: the mussels, prawns and fish. Cook everything together for a further 5–7 minutes, until the mussels open and the fish is just done.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Cazuela de Mariscos is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes it a wonderful option for anyone with particular dietary needs. Simply check that the fish stock is also gluten-free and that no dairy has crept into the ingredients. That way you can be confident the dish meets every nutritional requirement. Enjoy this delicious stew without a worry in the world.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans or vegetarians, Cazuela de Mariscos can easily be adapted. Instead of fish and shellfish, try tofu or a mix of vegetables such as courgette and aubergine. It is worth thinking about both flavour and texture here, so lean on good spices and a well-made stock to build that savoury, umami depth. With these tweaks you can put together a tasty version of the dish that suits your own way of eating.
More tips and tricks
A truly delicious Cazuela de Mariscos depends on the freshness of the ingredients and on the right cooking methods. Take care not to overcook the seafood, as it can quickly turn tough and rubbery. It is best to serve the stew straight after cooking, so the aromas and textures show at their finest. For an extra kick, you can also add a touch of chilli, depending on how much heat you enjoy.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Cazuela de Mariscos lends itself beautifully to personal tweaks. Experiment with different herbs and spices to shape the dish to your own palate. Other seafood such as squid or octopus can be folded in for an even richer range of flavours. Be creative and find the perfect combination for you and your guests — much as you might when building a generous platter of Croquetas de Pescado.
Ingredient substitutions
If an ingredient is hard to find, there is usually a good alternative that works well in Cazuela de Mariscos. In place of cod you can use salmon or another oily fish, while prawns make an excellent stand-in for mussels. If you would rather tone down the fishy note, a vegetable stock can take the place of fish stock. Stick with fresh ingredients wherever possible to keep the authentic character of the dish.
Drink pairing ideas
The right drink can lift the whole experience of Cazuela de Mariscos. A crisp, fresh white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the seafood and the savoury broth. For those who would rather skip the wine, a light beer rounds off the flavours nicely. Alcohol-free choices work just as well — a zesty lime cordial or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon is a perfect match.
Serving and presentation ideas
Cazuela de Mariscos can be a highlight for the eyes as much as the palate. Serve the stew in a large, generous bowl that shows off the colourful medley of ingredients. Garnish with fresh parsley and a hint of lime to add bright, fresh accents. A thoughtful table setting can elevate the whole meal and is sure to delight your guests.
A bit of history
Cazuela de Mariscos has its roots in traditional Uruguayan cuisine, which is shaped strongly by the surrounding seas. The combination of different seafood in a hearty broth reflects the country’s cultural exchange and its rich culinary traditions. Originally a simple fishermen’s dish, the cazuela has over the years become a much-loved staple in households across the country. Its appeal now reaches well beyond Uruguay’s borders, prized by seafood lovers around the world.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Seafood Stew
Cazuela de Mariscos is a culinary delight that carries the flavours of the Atlantic into any home. With fresh ingredients and a simple method, this stew is not only a fine way to impress your guests but also a taste of Uruguayan culture well worth discovering. Whether as a main course or the centrepiece of a relaxed gathering, the cazuela never fails to please. Give it a try and let this coastal classic win you over.
