Authentic Basque Marmitako: Classic Tuna and Potato Stew Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g fresh tuna
  • 4 medium potatoes
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 large onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 800ml fish stock
  • 200g fresh tomatoes
  • 50ml extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Begin by cutting the tuna into cubes and season with salt. Set aside.
  2. Peel and chop the potatoes into irregular chunks. Also, chop the peppers, onion, and garlic.
  3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, peppers, and garlic. Cook until they are soft and translucent.
  4. Add the paprika and bay leaf to the pot and stir well.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Next, add the potatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine with the other ingredients.
  7. Pour in the fish stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  8. Add the tuna cubes to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the tuna is cooked through.
  9. Remove the pot from heat. Let the marmitako rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting the tuna, vegetables, and other ingredients.
  • Large pot - Used for cooking the marmitako.
  • Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Measuring spoons - Helps to accurately measure the quantity of paprika and salt.
  • Peeler - Needed to peel the potatoes before chopping.
  • Can opener - Required to open the canned tomatoes if using.
  • Soup ladle - Used for serving the marmitako into bowls.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute fresh tuna with canned tuna for a quicker and more budget-friendly version.
  • Use different types of fish such as swordfish, halibut, or cod instead of tuna.
  • Add other seafood like shrimp, mussels, or clams to make it a seafood medley.
  • Include other vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for added color and flavor.
  • Add a touch of spicy heat by including a chopped chili pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as parsley, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavors.
  • For a heartier meal, add chunks of chorizo or bacon for a smoky and savory twist.
  • Try using sweet potatoes or yams instead of regular potatoes for a unique flavor and texture.
  • Make it vegetarian-friendly by omitting the fish and adding tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute.

Recipe overview

Marmitako is a traditional Spanish stew that is popular in the Basque Country, made primarily with fresh tuna, potatoes, and peppers. This hearty dish is named after the pot it's traditionally cooked in, known as a "marmita". It was originally made by fishermen during long fishing voyages as a way to utilize their catch of the day, making it a truly authentic seafood dish. The recipe involves cooking a mix of vegetables with potatoes in fish stock, before adding fresh tuna at the end. The resulting stew is a wonderfully comforting dish, where the spice of the paprika and the sweetness of the peppers complement the hearty potatoes and the rich, meaty tuna. This recipe is relatively straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for a family meal. Expect a flavorful, filling dish that brings together the best of the sea and the land. It's a meal that will transport you to the seaside of Spain with every bite. Enjoy this classic Spanish comfort food at your own dining table!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned tuna instead of fresh tuna? No, it is recommended to use fresh tuna for the best flavor and texture in this recipe.
  2. Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can use other firm-fleshed fish like swordfish or halibut as a substitute for tuna.
  3. Do I need to peel the potatoes? Yes, it is recommended to peel the potatoes before chopping them.
  4. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish? Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of paprika to adjust the spiciness according to your preference.
  5. What can I serve with Marmitako? Marmitako is traditionally served with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful broth. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
  6. Can I make Marmitako in advance? Yes, Marmitako actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Used for safely chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - A sharp knife that is essential for cutting and slicing ingredients.
  • Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for stirring.
  • Wooden spoon - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring spoons - Needed to accurately measure spices and seasonings.
  • Soup ladle - Used for serving the marmitako into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - The serving vessels for the marmitako.
  • Crusty bread - Optional, but recommended for serving alongside the marmitako.

Origin stories

Marmitako, a hearty fisherman's stew hailing from the Basque region of Spain, has a story as rich as its flavors. In the olden days, Basque fishermen would venture out to sea for days in search of albacore tuna. The long expeditions required a nourishing and easy-to-reheat meal, hence the birth of Marmitako. The word ‘Marmitako’ actually translates to 'from the pot', a nod to the simple, hearty fare the fishermen would cook in a single pot on the boat. The stew was traditionally prepared with the catch of the day, potatoes, onions, and peppers - all ingredients that were easy to store and transport. The fishermen would cook the stew on open fire right on their boats, filling the salty sea air with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering potatoes and fresh tuna. Today, this humble seafarer’s dish is a beloved staple in Basque cuisine, relished not only for its robust flavors but also for the piece of history that it symbolizes.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.