FISH SOUP WITH VEGETABLES

Steps:

• Heat the oil in a kettle or a large saucepan over medium heat and add the onions, garlic, fennel, leeks and carrots. Cook, stirring often, over medium high heat until the mixture is wilted. Do not brown.
• Add the pepper flakes, saffron, thyme, bay leaf, fish broth, wine, crushed tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add the potatoes. Bring to a simmer, cover closely, and cook or simmer for 10 minutes.
• Add the fish and the scallops. Check for seasoning. Simmer for 3 minutes; do not overcook. Add the cream, bring to a boil, remove from heat, add the basil and serve immediately with the croutons.