Salmon stew is a comforting and nutritious dish that beautifully blends the rich umami flavors of Asian cuisine with the heartiness of American stews. This Easy Salmon Stew is packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect dish for any season. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a family gathering, this stew is both simple and delicious.
The first time Momo and I made this Easy Salmon Stew, we were both excited and a little nervous. Cooking together is always fun, but we weren’t sure how the mix of coconut milk, soy sauce, and lime would turn out. As we chopped the vegetables and let the broth simmer, the kitchen filled with a warm, comforting aroma. When we finally took our first bite, we looked at each other and smiled—it was rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor! The salmon was perfectly tender, and the balance of umami and citrus made it light yet satisfying. We knew right away that this would become one of our favorite go-to meals!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Stew
Quick & Simple – Ready in just 30 minutes!
Healthy & Nutritious – Loaded with omega-3s, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Versatile – Perfect for any season with adjustable ingredients.
One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup, more flavor!
Ingredients (Serves 5)
Ingredients Table for Easy Salmon Stew (With Quantities)
| Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| For the Base | Sesame oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 small | |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | |
| Ginger, grated | 1-inch piece | |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 medium | |
| Carrot, julienned | 1 large | |
| Mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced | 1 cup | |
| For the Broth | Vegetable or fish stock | 4 cups |
| Coconut milk | 1 can (14 oz) | |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons | |
| Miso paste (optional) | 1 tablespoon | |
| Red chili flakes (adjust to taste) | 1 teaspoon | |
| Fish sauce (optional) | 1 teaspoon | |
| For the Salmon | Fresh salmon fillet, cut into chunks | 1 lb (450g) |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | ½ cup | |
| Baby spinach or bok choy | 2 cups | |
| Lime zest | 1 teaspoon | |
| Lime juice | Juice of 1 lime | |
| Salt (adjust to taste) | ½ teaspoon | |
| Garnish | Fresh cilantro, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Green onions, sliced | ¼ cup |
If you don’t have salmon on hand, you can substitute it with other fish like steelhead trout, which has a similar texture and flavor profile.
How to Make Easy Salmon Stew
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
- In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, coarse salt, sweet paprika, cumin, and black pepper.
- Add the salmon chunks and coat them well with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and let the salmon marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. (The longer, the better for flavor.)
Step 2: Prepare the Base of the Stew
- Heat a large covered skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up.
- Layer the ingredients in the pot:
- First, add the sliced onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they become soft.
- Next, add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Finally, add the sliced tomatoes and let them cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Add the Liquid and Cook the Stew
- Pour in 2 cups of fish broth or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer.
- (Optional) If you prefer a creamier stew, add 1 cup of coconut milk at this stage.
- Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
- Stir everything well and let the broth cook for 5 minutes to develop flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
- Gently add the marinated salmon chunks into the stew.
- Cover the pot and let the salmon cook for 10–15 minutes on low heat until fully cooked. The salmon should be tender and flaky.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top.
- Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Easy Salmon Stew
Serve this stew with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. For a unique twist, try this Cottage Cheese Flatbread as a delicious dipping option.
Drizzle with a bit of chili oil or sesame seeds for extra depth.
Pair with a light Asian salad for a complete meal.
For a complete meal, pair this stew with a light Asian side like stir-fried broccoli, which complements the umami flavors of the broth.
Tips & Variations
Make it Spicier: Add extra chili flakes or Sriracha for heat.
More Vegetables: Toss in zucchini, corn, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
Turn it into a Noodle Soup: Add rice noodles or ramen for a heartier dish.
Other Protein Options: Substitute salmon with shrimp, tofu, or chicken.
Health Benefits of Salmon Stew
Omega-3 Rich – Supports heart & brain health.
Anti-Inflammatory – Ginger, garlic, and chili flakes help boost immunity.
High-Protein Meal – Great for muscle recovery and energy.
Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free – Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes! Just thaw it completely before adding to the stew to ensure even cooking.
Q: How long does this stew last?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the broth in advance and add the salmon and greens just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salmon Stew is a delightful fusion of Asian and American flavors, perfect for a nourishing and satisfying meal any time of the year. Whether you enjoy it as a light summer dish or a cozy winter stew, it’s guaranteed to impress!
Love comforting soups? You might also enjoy this Olive Garden Minestrone Soup or this Panera Butternut Squash Soup for another cozy meal.