This is a seriously authentically flavoured oil, which was utterly delicious as an accompaniment dip for my bourbon maple red onion and feta sourdough bread (yes, this infused bread was made with one of the balsamics). The smokiness was the perfect intense-level for me personally, and it brought my appetiser to a whole new level. One of your best!
Bouillabaisse
Provence, situated in the southeast of France, is a magnificent land boasting spectacular landscapes and incredible gastronomy. Its diverse scenery allows travelers to explore Mediterranean beaches, soak in luscious vineyards and olive groves, and appreciate vibrant lavender fields.
The Provençal classic dish Bouillabaisse is a famous seafood stew that originated in the seaside city of Marseille. This tasty tomato and saffron-based broth is fragrantly seasoned with aromatic ingredients, such as fennel, garlic, onions, and olive oil, and adorned with delectable seafood, including shrimp, clams, mussels, and white fish. Finally, Herbs de Provence Infused Olive Oil, a medley of flavorsome thyme, savory, marjoram, rosemary, and lavender, is drizzled on top, bringing this fantastic feast to a divine end.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, peeled and minced
4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
1/4 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup fresh fennel, sliced
8-12 new potatoes (or baby yellow potatoes), halved
2 large tomatoes, cored and chopped
6 cups vegetable or seafood broth
1/4 teaspoon saffron
2 bay leaves
8oz white fish fillets, cut into 4 portions
6-8 mussels
6-8 large raw shrimp
Fleur de Sel and pepper to taste
2-4 tablespoons Herbs de Provence Infused Olive Oil
Toasted bread for dipping and sopping
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, garlic, celery, fennel, and sauté until the veggies are tender-crisp about 3-4 minutes. Add potatoes and tomatoes to the pot, stir to combine, and continue to sauté for 1 minute more. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the broth, saffron, and bay leaves, stir to combine, and bring to a low simmer. Once simmering, cover and cook for 10 minutes. Add the white fish, mussels, and shrimp to the pot, nestling the seafood into the veggies, cover, and continue to cook for another 10 minutes or until the white fish and shrimp are cooked through, and the mussels have opened (discard any mussels that have not opened). Season to taste with salt and pepper. Divide seafood, broth, and veggie between bowls and drizzle with Herbs de Provence Infused Olive Oil. Serve bouillabaisse with toasted bread for dipping and sopping. (Optional- garnish with a few fresh fennel fronds).