A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Bouillabaisse
A classic Provençal fish stew with a rich history and a distinct, often debated, pronunciation.
bouillabaisse
boo-yuh-BAYS
/ˌbuː.jəˈbeɪs/ · boo · yuh · BAZE
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's a specific type of fish stew, so it's often mentioned when detailing ingredients or culinary traditions.
Where the word comes from
The word comes from the Provençal Occitan 'bolhabaissa', a compound of 'bolhir' (to boil) and 'abaissar' (to reduce or simmer). This refers to the cooking method of the stew.
Common ways people get it wrong
- BOO-uh-base People sometimes miss the 'y' sound after the first syllable and the final 's' sound. Remember the 'yuh' and end with a clear 's'.
- BOO-ee-base The 'i' in the middle is more of a glide ('yuh') than a separate vowel sound. Think of it as 'boo-yuh' not 'boo-ee'.
Frequently asked
What is bouillabaisse?
Bouillabaisse is a traditional Provençal fish stew originating from Marseille, France. It's known for its rich broth and variety of seafood.
Is there a correct way to say bouillabaisse?
The most common and accepted pronunciation in English is 'boo-yuh-BAYS'. The stress falls on the last syllable.
What kind of fish is in bouillabaisse?
Traditionally, bouillabaisse includes Mediterranean rockfish and other bony fish. Modern versions may vary but often feature a mix of white fish and shellfish.
How do you pronounce bouillabaisse in French?
In French, bouillabaisse is pronounced roughly as 'bweey-ah-bess'. The 'bweey' part has a soft, almost whispered sound, and the 'ah-bess' is more distinct.
What is bouillabaisse in English?
In English, bouillabaisse is pronounced similarly to the French, often as 'boo-yah-bess'. It refers to a traditional Provençal fish stew originating from Marseille.
What does the French word "bouillabaisse" mean?
The word 'bouillabaisse' comes from the Provençal words 'bolh' (boil) and 'abaissar' (to reduce). It refers to the cooking process of the stew.
What's the difference between cioppino and bouillabaisse?
While both are fish stews, bouillabaisse is a French dish with specific Mediterranean fish and herbs, often served with rouille. Cioppino is an Italian-American dish with a tomato-based broth and a variety of seafood.
