TABLE Jen Royle | Cacciucco: The Tuscan Fisherman's Stew
TABLE Jen Royle Cacciucco, a robust fisherman's stew from Livorno in Tuscany, embodies the coastal flavors and hearty spirit of Italian cuisine. Legend has it that this dish was born from the need to use up the day's catch, resulting in a rich broth simmered with a variety of seafood—typically including fish, squid, and shellfish—enhanced with tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Cacciucco's allure lies in its depth of flavor and the ritualistic manner of its preparation. Traditionally served in layers over toasted bread rubbed with garlic, each bite offers a taste of the sea balanced by the sweetness of tomatoes and the earthiness of Tuscan olive oil. Whether enjoyed in a seaside trattoria or recreated at home, cacciucco transports diners to the rugged shores of Tuscany, celebrating Italy's maritime heritage with every spoonful.