Tomato and Fennel Stew with Big Shrimp
2 T. olive oil
1 c. chopped fresh fennel bulb
1 (28-oz.) can diced tomato with basil, garlic and oregano
1 c. low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 c. dry vermouth or dry white wine
1 lb. jumbo shrimp
1/4 c. chopped flat-leaf parsley, optional
Good-quality salad croutons, optional
Place olive oil in a 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add fennel and cook, stirring, until it softens, about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and their liquid, chicken broth and wine, cover pan and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10 minutes. Add shrimp and cook until they turn just pink, about 3 minutes. Ladle stew into serving bowls and garnish each serving with chopped parsley and/or croutons, if desired.