3 pounds fi sh heads and bones, gills
removed, bones rinsed of blood
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery ribs, sliced
6 parsley sprigs
3 thyme sprigs
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
7 cups water, or as needed
1 cup dry white wine or dry vermouth
How to make
Traditional Fish Stock
Traditional method: Combine everything in
a large soup pot or Dutch oven and bring to a
boil over high heat. Cover partially, reduce the
heat to very low, and simmer very slowly, just
the slightest bubble, for 1 hour.
Pressure cooker method: Combine everything
in a large pressure cooker, adding enough water
that everything is covered but the water does
not rise above the maximum fi ll line. Lock on
the lid and bring to high pressure over high
heat (read the manufacturer’s instructions for
various indicators and safety methods). Reduce
the heat to medium and cook at high pressure
for 18 minutes. Set aside off the heat and let
the cooker return to normal pressure, about 15
minutes.
Strain through a sieve or colander set over a
large bowl in the sink. Ladle into small containers,
seal, and store in the refrigerator for 2 days or in
the freezer for 3 months.
Shrimp Stock: Substitute the shells from 3
pounds shrimp for the fi sh heads and bones.