CIOPPINO

Preparation Method :

• Pull the apron back from underneath the crab and separate the shells. Remove the feathery gills and intestines. Twist off the claws.
• Using a cleaver or large, heavy knife, cut the crabs into quarters. Crack the claws either with crab crackers or the back of a heavy knife.
• Heat the oil in a large heavy-based saucepan, add the onion, carrot, garlic and chilli and stir over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft.
• Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, wine, stock, thyme and parsley sprigs. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, then cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
• Add the crab pieces to the broth and simmer for 5 minutes, then add the prawns and simmer for 1 minute.
• Add the fish pieces and mussels and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish pieces are opaque.
• Season well. Discard any mussels that have not opened. Sprinkle with parsley and basil before serving.