Soggy Seaside Hymn

The Story Behind the Soggy Seaside Hymn

The Soggy Seaside Hymn is a savory dish inspired by the coastal cultures and culinary traditions of seafaring communities. The name "Hymn" nods to the harmonious blend of the flavors that sing together in this meal. Originating as a humble fisherman's stew, this dish has traveled through various coastlines, absorbing flavors unique to each region. Over centuries, it has been refined into the sophisticated yet comforting recipe we share today.

Ingredients

• Fish - 500g of your choice of fresh caught white fish such as cod or haddock
• Prawns - 200g, peeled and deveined
• Mussels - 300g, cleaned and debearded
• Onions - 2 large, finely sliced
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes - 4 medium, chopped
• Potatoes - 3 medium, peeled and diced
• Sea Salt - 1 tablespoon
• Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
• White Wine - 1 cup
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Parsley - Fresh, for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Before diving into the actual cooking process, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Begin by cleaning and preparing your fish, ensuring all bones are removed. Do the same with the prawns and mussels. Clean the onions and slice them finely, and have your garlic minced. Chop up the tomatoes and dice the potatoes. Have your spices like sea salt and pepper measured out for easy access.

Step 2: Cooking

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir them into the onions and garlic.
3. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
4. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and the juice of one lemon, stirring them into the mixture.
5. Carefully place the cleaned mussels into the pot and cover with a lid, letting them steam for about 5 minutes until the shells open.
6. Add the prepared fish and prawns to the pot. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break apart the tender fish pieces.
7. Season the stew with sea salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
8. Let the stew simmer gently for about 10 minutes or until all seafood is fully cooked. Set a cooking timer to keep track.
9. Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for garnish.

Serving and Enjoying the Soggy Seaside Hymn

Serve the Soggy Seaside Hymn hot in a bowl, making sure to get a little of everything: the succulent fish, the juicy prawns, and plump mussels, along with the flavorful broth infused with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Pair this hearty dish with a slice of warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. Enjoy this dish while imagining the sound of the waves, feeling the cool sea breeze, and basking in the glow of a setting sun.