Fish with a Creamy White Wine Sauce: A Simple, Elegant Dish

This dish is a classic for a reason. The delicate fish, bathed in a rich, creamy white wine sauce, is a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks.

Ingredients:

• For the Fish:
  • 4 x 150g skinless white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or halibut work well)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 100ml dry white wine
  • 200ml fish stock
  • 150ml double cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh dill (or 1/2 tsp dried dill)
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • Butter, for finishing (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish:

• Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the fish fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

1. Make the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the shallot and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
• Pour in the white wine and bring to a boil. Let it reduce by half.
• Stir in the fish stock, double cream, Dijon mustard, dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
• If desired, add a knob of butter to the sauce and stir until melted for a richer, glossier finish.

1. Serve:

• Place the cooked fish fillets on serving plates.
• Pour the creamy white wine sauce over the fish.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or rice.

Tips:

• Choose the Right Fish: While cod, haddock, and halibut are classic choices, you can experiment with other white fish like snapper or sea bass.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply cook it for a longer period. For a thinner sauce, add a little more fish stock or cream.
• Elevate the Dish: To add a touch of luxury, garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the flavors of this dish perfectly.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, this dish is a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!