Halibut Stew

This hearty fish soup get tons of flavor from smoky bacon and fragrant saffron.

Makes 4 servings

4 thick-cut bacon slices, chopped
1 cup sliced shallots
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
6 garlic cloves, chopped
1 14 1/2-ounce can petite diced tomatoes in juice
1 8-ounce bottle clam juice
1/3 cup dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon (scant) saffron threads
2 15-ounce cans small white beans, drained
1 1/2 pounds halibut fillets, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks

Sauté bacon and shallots in large pot over medium-high heat until bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes. Add olive oil and garlic; stir 1 minute. Add tomatoes with juice, clam juice, wine, and saffron; bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes. Add beans and fish; bring to simmer. Cover; simmer until fish is just opaque in center, about 5 minutes. Season stew to taste with salt and pepper.