Quick & Easy Paprika Fish and Bean Stew Recipe | Flavorful, Hearty, and Perfect for Weeknights

Quick & Easy Paprika Fish and Bean Stew is a perfect one-pot dish that combines tender fish fillets with hearty beans, all simmered in a smoky, aromatic paprika broth. The fish adds delicate flavor, while the beans provide substance, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s packed with flavors that are both comforting and vibrant, thanks to the paprika, garlic, and vegetables. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for something quick and healthy, this stew will hit the spot!

What Is Paprika Fish and Bean Stew?

This dish is a light and flavorful stew made by simmering fish fillets and beans in a paprika-infused broth. The paprika gives the stew a warm, smoky flavor, while the beans add a creamy texture and richness. The fish used in the stew is typically white, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia, but you can use any firm fish of your choice.

The combination of the fish and beans, along with fresh vegetables and spices, creates a comforting and filling meal that’s both healthy and easy to make. It’s a versatile recipe, as you can switch up the types of beans or fish depending on what you have available.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple yet flavorful dish uses basic ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.

For the stew

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work well)
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika works best for a rich, smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added brightness)

For garnish (optional)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges

These ingredients combine to make a rich, aromatic stew that is both quick and satisfying.

How to Make Quick & Easy Paprika Fish and Bean Stew

This recipe is super simple and comes together in just 30 minutes. Follow these easy steps for a delicious, hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the spices
   • Stir in the paprika and dried thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavor of the spices.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the liquids and beans
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.
   • Add the rinsed beans, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the fish
   • Cut the fish fillets into large chunks or keep them whole if you prefer.
   • Gently place the fish pieces into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
5. Finish the stew
   • Stir in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness (optional).
   • Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
6. Serve
   • Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Enjoy your delicious, one-pot meal!

Tips for the Best Paprika Fish and Bean Stew

To ensure this stew turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Use firm white fish: Choose fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia, as they hold up well in the stew without falling apart. Avoid oily fish like salmon or mackerel, as they may overwhelm the flavor of the broth.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika.
• Use smoked paprika: For an extra smoky flavor, opt for smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika. It gives the stew a deep, savory taste that’s irresistible.
• Add more veggies: If you’d like to add more vegetables to the stew, try adding carrots, zucchini, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrients.

This stew is so versatile and can be customized based on your preferences or what’s in season.

What to Serve with Paprika Fish and Bean Stew

This hearty stew can be served on its own or paired with a variety of sides.

Great pairings

• Crusty bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Rice or quinoa: For a more filling meal, serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous to absorb the savory flavors.
• Salad: A light green salad with a citrus dressing helps balance the richness of the stew.

For drinks

• White wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the fish and the smoky broth.
• Sparkling water: A cold, refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon pairs well with the dish’s flavors.

Health Benefits of Paprika Fish and Bean Stew

This stew is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Fish is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and brain function.
• Beans are rich in fiber and plant-based protein, supporting digestive health and keeping you feeling full.
• Paprika contains antioxidants, including vitamin A and capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting benefits.
• Tomatoes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and protecting against oxidative stress.

This is a nutrient-dense, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a balanced diet.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep or making ahead for busy days.

• Prep the ingredients ahead: You can chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also pre-measure the spices and store them in a small container for convenience.
• Store leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freeze the stew: You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

This makes the dish even quicker and easier to prepare when you need it!

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FAQS

1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen fish works perfectly in this stew. Just thaw the fish completely before adding it to the broth, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes! Canned beans work great and are much quicker. Just be sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium before adding them to the stew.

3. Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! Cod, haddock, tilapia, or even halibut are all great options. Just choose a firm white fish that can hold up well in the stew.

4. Can I make this stew spicy?

Yes! If you like spice, you can add more chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the broth, or even toss in some chopped fresh chili peppers along with the garlic and onion.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the fish and add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also add more beans for extra protein and texture.

6. Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can use other types of beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas. Each type will bring a slightly different texture and flavor, but all will work well in this dish.

7. How do I know when the fish is cooked?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it, as fish can become dry and tough.

8. Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! You can make the stew ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and taste even better the next day.

9. How can I thicken the broth?

If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the stew, or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. You can also add a bit of cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken it.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this stew?

Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots, spinach, zucchini, or kale to the stew. Just add them in with the beans and tomatoes and let them cook through.