If there’s one dish that captures the essence of the Croatian coast, it’s Brudet. This rustic fish stew hails from the sun-drenched Dalmatian region, where the sea is generous, and every meal tells a story. Brudet is not just a recipe—it’s tradition in a pot.
Crafted with a mix of fresh, firm fish and gently simmered in an aromatic tomato and white wine broth, Brudet delivers rich, layered flavors and the heartwarming essence of coastal cuisine. The magic happens when the fish gently cooks without stirring, allowing it to absorb the rich, garlicky sauce. Every home along the Adriatic has its own version, often passed down through generations—sometimes with shellfish, sometimes with olives, but always with love.
What makes Brudet truly special is its simplicity. It doesn’t demand perfection—just good fish, a few pantry staples, and the patience to let it all come together slowly. Paired with creamy polenta or crusty bread, it’s the kind of dish that transports you straight to a seaside konoba (Croatian tavern), waves crashing nearby and a glass of local wine in hand.
Whether you’re exploring new Mediterranean flavors or longing for a bite of the coast, Brudet is a timeless dish that brings the Adriatic to your table.
Ingredients
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1 kg (2.2 lbs) mixed fish (e.g., monkfish, sea bass, red mullet, or grouper), cleaned and cut into chunks
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 medium onions, finely chopped
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped (or 1 cup of canned tomatoes as an alternative)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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150 ml (⅔ cup) white wine
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1 tbsp vinegar (wine or white)
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2 bay leaves
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: a few black olives or capers for added depth
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500 ml (2 cups) fish stock or water
Execution
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Sauté the base
Add olive oil to large pot and heat on medium. Add the chopped onions and cook for roughly 5 minutes until translucent, followed by the garlic, which should sauté for just a minute more. -
Add tomato
Stir in chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens. -
Deglaze & season
Pour in white wine and vinegar. Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer briefly to thicken slightly. -
Add fish & simmer
Gently layer in the fish pieces (do not stir — shake the pot instead to avoid breaking the fish). Add fish stock or water until the fish is just covered. -
Cook low & slow
Simmer uncovered on low heat for 30–40 minutes, occasionally swirling the pot to mix. -
Finish
Adorn with finely chopped parsley, and for a briny touch, consider olives or capers. Serve hot with polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Additional Tips
✔ Use fresh, firm white fish to avoid it falling apart during cooking.
✔ Do not stir the stew once fish is added—shake the pot gently to avoid breaking delicate pieces.
✔ Let it rest 10 minutes before serving so flavors meld.
✔ Excellent with white wine (Graševina/Pošip)
Q&A About Croatian Brudet
Q: What is Brudet?
A: Brudet (also known as Brodet or Brodetto) is a traditional Croatian fish stew from the Dalmatian coast. It’s typically made with a mix of white fish, tomatoes, garlic, and wine, slowly simmered to create a rich, flavorful dish.
Q: What kind of fish is best for Brudet?
A: Use firm white fish such as monkfish, sea bass, red mullet, grouper, or even eel. A mix of 2–3 types of fish gives the best flavor. Avoid delicate fish that flake easily.
Q: Can I use frozen fish?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fish, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. Fresh fish is preferred for the most authentic taste and texture.
Q: Is Brudet spicy?
A: Traditionally, Brudet is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a hot pepper if you like a bit of heat.
Q: Do I need to stir the stew while it cooks?
A: No. One of the key tips is not to stir the pot once the fish is added. This helps keep the fish pieces whole. Instead, gently swirl or shake the pot to prevent sticking.
Q: What is Brudet typically served with?
A: The most classic pairing is creamy polenta, which soaks up the flavorful broth. It also goes well with mashed potatoes or rustic crusty bread.
Q: Can I make Brudet ahead of time?
A: Yes! Brudet tastes even better after resting. You can make it a few hours in advance or even the day before—just reheat gently before serving.
Q: Is Brudet healthy?
A: Yes, it’s a light and nutritious dish—high in protein, rich in omega-3s (from the fish), and low in carbs, especially if served with vegetables or polenta.
💙 Why You Should Make Croatian Brudet
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in heritage, Croatian Brudet is the answer. This humble seafood stew is a true celebration of coastal cuisine, combining fresh ingredients, slow cooking, and deep tradition into every bite.
Here’s why Brudet belongs in your kitchen:
🔹 Simple, Honest Ingredients
Brudet is proof that you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create something unforgettable. A few fresh fish, ripe tomatoes, onions, and a splash of wine come together to create magic.
🔹 One-Pot Wonder
No mess, no fuss—just a single pot full of Mediterranean comfort. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekends when you want something warm and satisfying without complicated steps.
🔹 Authentic Coastal Flavors
Brudet captures the soul of the Adriatic in every spoonful. The tomato-wine broth is rich yet light, and the slow simmering allows all the flavors to deepen beautifully.
🔹 Customizable to What You Have
Whether you’ve got monkfish, sea bass, shrimp, or even squid, Brudet adapts to what’s available. It’s forgiving, flexible, and always delicious.
🔹 A Cultural Journey in a Bowl
Cooking Brudet is like stepping into a Dalmatian seaside kitchen. It’s not just food—it’s a story, a tradition, and a moment of connection to a slower, simpler way of life.
So next time you crave something different—something comforting, flavorful, and rooted in tradition—let Brudet be your guide to the Adriatic coast.
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Estimated values; may vary depending on fish type and quantity used.
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Protein: 34 g
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Total Fat: 14 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Cholesterol: 85 mg
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Carbohydrates: 9 g
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Sugars: 5 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: 480 mg
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Potassium: 800 mg
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Vitamin C: 15% DV
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Vitamin A: 20% DV
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Calcium: 6% DV
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Iron: 10% DV
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Omega-3s: High (varies by fish type)
⚖️ Notes:
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Serving size assumes 1/4 of the pot, without side dishes.
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Polenta or bread will add more carbs and calories.
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Rich in lean protein and healthy fats from olive oil and fish.
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Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs (if served without polenta).
Happy Cooking
Diana
