Marmitako (Basque Tuna and Potato Stew)

Marmitako is a Basque tuna and potato stew with a savoury, sea-scented broth and a gently smoky depth from sweet paprika. Traditionally associated with simple coastal cooking, it turns everyday ingredients — potatoes, peppers, onion, tomato and fish stock — into a substantial one-pot meal. The potatoes soften into the broth, giving it body, while the tuna is added only at the end so it stays tender rather than dry. Served hot in deep bowls, it is hearty without feeling heavy, with enough rich liquid for spooning up alongside the fish and vegetables.
Cuisine style Basque coastal cooking
Cooking style One-pot cooking
Time commitment Under 1 hour

Why this recipe works

  • Layered savoury base: Softened onion, red pepper, garlic, tomato and sweet paprika create a rounded foundation before the stock is added.
  • Naturally full-bodied broth: The potatoes release starch as they simmer, giving the stew a richer texture without needing cream or flour.
  • Tuna added at the end: Cooking the tuna briefly in the hot broth keeps it juicy and prevents the dry, flaky texture that comes from prolonged simmering.

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Ingredient notes

  • Choose firm tuna: Use tuna steak that can be cut into large chunks, as smaller pieces are more likely to overcook and break apart.
  • Grate the tomato: Grating ripe tomato gives the stew body and freshness while leaving the skins behind.
  • Use sweet paprika: Sweet paprika adds warmth and colour without turning the stew spicy, which suits the gentle flavour of the fish.

Timing notes

  • Serve soon after cooking: Marmitako is at its best when the tuna has just cooked through and the broth is still hot and loose.
  • Let it stand briefly: A short rest off the heat helps the broth settle and allows the tuna to finish cooking gently.
  • Best on the day: The potato base keeps well, but the tuna has the best texture when freshly cooked.

Make-ahead tips

  • Make the base ahead: Cook the vegetable, tomato, stock and potato base in advance, then reheat it gently and add the tuna just before serving.
  • Reheat gently: Warm leftovers over low heat and stir carefully so the tuna stays in pieces; add a little water if the broth has thickened.

Authenticity notes

  • Basque coastal style: Marmitako is closely associated with Basque seafood cooking, where tuna, potatoes, peppers and a savoury broth form the core of the dish.
  • Rustic rather than refined: The stew should feel hearty and brothy, with tender potato pieces and generous chunks of fish rather than a smooth sauce.

Equipment you'll need

Ingredients
Instructions
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  1. Prepare the vegetables: finely chop the onion, cut the red pepper into small pieces, and finely chop the garlic. Grate the tomatoes on a box grater into a bowl and discard the skins. Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized chunks, then set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large casserole over medium heat. Add the onion and red pepper with a pinch of the salt and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring, until softened and sweet. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the sweet paprika so it does not catch. Return to a low heat, add the grated tomato and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until thickened and jammy. Stir often, scraping the base of the pan.
  4. Add the potatoes, fish stock and the remaining salt, then bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, partially covered, until the potatoes are tender and the broth has a rich body. If needed, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Cut the tuna into large chunks. Stir the tuna into the stew and cook gently for 2 to 4 minutes, just until the outside turns opaque and the centre stays juicy. Remove from the heat and leave to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

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Recipe notes

Tips

  • For a fuller-bodied broth, lightly crush a few potato pieces against the side of the pan during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
  • Keep the stew at a gentle simmer once the tuna goes in; boiling will make it dry and flaky.
  • Food safety: if serving to pregnant people, young children, older adults, or anyone immunocompromised, cook the tuna until fully opaque throughout.

Substitutions

  • Replace Tuna steak with Salmon fillet for a similarly rich, flaky finish.
  • Replace Fish stock with Vegetable stock for a lighter, less briny stew.

Storage

  • Refrigerate up to 2 days
  • Cool, cover and refrigerate within 2 hours. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until piping hot, stirring carefully so the tuna stays in chunks; add a splash of water if the stew has thickened.

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Recipe overview

  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Total time: 1h (25min active)
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Cuisine: Spanish
  • Allergens:
    Fish
One pot Kid friendly

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