10 Irresistible Blanquette de la Mer Recipes for a Perfect Seafood Delight
Blanquette de la Mer is a delightful seafood dish that combines the richness of cream with a variety of fresh fish and shellfish. This recipe is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for both special occasions and family gatherings. The creamy sauce and tender seafood create a comforting meal that is sure to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 500g fish fillet (such as cod or sole)
- 300g shrimp
- 200g mussels
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 50cl fish stock
- 20cl heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish and Seafood
Begin by cleaning and preparing the fish and seafood. Cut the fish into chunks and ensure all shrimp and scallops are cleaned and deveined.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In a large pot, combine water with a splash of white wine, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
Once the broth is simmering, add the prepared fish and seafood. Cook gently for about 10 minutes until the seafood is just cooked through.
Step 4: Remove and Strain
Carefully remove the seafood from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth to remove solids and set aside the liquid.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and add flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the reserved broth, stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Step 6: Add Cream
Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes.
Step 7: Combine Seafood and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked seafood back into the creamy sauce, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Step 8: Serve
Plate the blanquette de la mer warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Technique 1: Preparing Seafood
To achieve the best flavor in your blanquette, start by selecting fresh seafood. Clean and prepare your seafood properly to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Technique 2: Creating the Sauce
The sauce is essential for blanquette de la mer. Prepare a white sauce using ingredients like butter, flour, and broth to create a smooth and rich base for the seafood.
Technique 3: Simmering
Simmer the seafood gently in the sauce to ensure it retains its delicate texture and flavors. Avoid boiling, as this can make the seafood tough.
Technique 4: Flavoring
Enhance the dish with aromatics such as onions and herbs. These ingredients should be sautéed before adding them to the sauce for an additional layer of flavor.