When people think of seafood soups, clam chowder usually gets all the attention. And while it certainly has its place on a winter menu, the world of seafood soups and stews is far richer—and more exciting—than just cream-based classics.
From brothy Mediterranean bowls to spicy Asian-inspired blends, seafood adds depth, flavour, and nutrition to soups that are anything but ordinary. If you’re ready to explore beyond chowder, here are a few soul-warming seafood dishes that prove just how versatile the sea can be.
Bouillabaisse: The French Fisherman’s Favourite
Originating from the port city of Marseille, bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew that combines fresh seafood with herbs, saffron, tomatoes, garlic, and white wine. It’s the kind of dish that brings elegance to the table without being fussy.
A proper bouillabaisse uses a variety of fish—often rockfish, snapper, or gurnard—alongside shellfish like mussels and prawns. It’s served with a side of rouille (a garlicky mayo-like sauce) and crusty bread to soak up the rich, aromatic broth. Think of it as comfort food with coastal flair.
Tom Yum Talay: Spicy, Sour, and Seriously Good
This Thai hot-and-sour soup is a bold departure from creamy Western chowders, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves their seafood with a kick. Tom Yum Talay features a medley of prawns, squid, and fish simmered in a fragrant broth of lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, and chilli.
The result is a soup that’s bright, fiery, and refreshingly light—ideal for both hot and cool seasons. Plus, its base is naturally immune-boosting, thanks to ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Cioppino: Italian-American Comfort in a Bowl
Invented by Italian immigrants in San Francisco, cioppino is a tomato-based seafood stew made with whatever the day’s catch happens to be. Think mussels, clams, prawns, and chunks of white fish, all simmered in a garlic and wine-infused broth.
It’s rustic, hearty, and packed with flavour. Serve it with grilled sourdough or over soft polenta for a complete meal that’s comforting without being overly rich. Cioppino proves that simple ingredients, when done right, can create extraordinary results.
The Secret Ingredient? Great Seafood
No matter which soup or stew you choose, the one thing that truly makes or breaks a dish is the quality of the seafood. Fresh, sustainably sourced fish and shellfish will always deliver better flavour, texture, and nutrition.
At Seafood Factory Outlet, we specialise in providing top-quality Australian seafood that elevates every dish—from quick weekday meals to slow-cooked stews. Whether you’re experimenting with global flavours or crafting a traditional recipe, you’ll find what you need with us.
Visit us at 41 Clapham Rd, Regents Park NSW 2143, or shop online at www.seafoodfactoryoutlet.com.au to explore our wide selection of fresh, seasonal seafood.
