Mary Berry Fish Stew – A Warm, Rustic Seafood Classic

A bowl of Mary Berry Fish Stew is a beautiful combination of comfort and elegance. Packed with tender white fish, juicy prawns, and a fragrant tomato base, this stew is light yet hearty. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, it’s ready in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. This Mary Berry Fish Stew is everything you’d want in a home-cooked dish — wholesome, flavorful, and simple to follow.

What Is Mary Berry Fish Stew?

Mary Berry Fish Stew is a Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish made with fresh fish fillets, prawns, and vegetables in a tomato-based broth. It’s simmered gently on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The stew is light enough for summer yet satisfying enough for colder months. With her signature style, Mary keeps it straightforward, wholesome, and family-friendly.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Quick and simple – It’s ready in just 40 minutes and uses minimal prep.
• Healthy and balanced – Packed with protein, omega-3s, and hearty vegetables.
• Great for gatherings – Serve it with crusty bread or rice for a cozy dinner.
• Flexible ingredients – Swap fish or shellfish depending on what’s available.
• Beginner-friendly – No complicated techniques, just honest cooking.
• Freezes well – Make ahead and freeze in batches for quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Fish Stew

Here’s everything you’ll need for this nourishing fish stew:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For a rich, Mediterranean base.
• 1 onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 garlic clove (crushed) – Brings a savory kick.
• 1 red pepper (sliced) – Adds color and gentle sweetness.
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes – Form the body of the stew.
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée – Boosts umami and thickens the broth.
• 300ml fish stock – Enhances the seafood flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Brings warmth and a smoky hint.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
• 400g firm white fish fillets (like cod or haddock) – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 150g cooked king prawns (peeled) – Adds richness and texture.
• Fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish and a fresh lift.

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or deep skillet
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Measuring jug or cups

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Fish Stew

Sauté the base ingredients

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan. Add chopped onion and red pepper and sauté gently for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Add garlic and tomato flavor

Stir in the crushed garlic, chopped tomatoes, and tomato purée. Cook for 2–3 minutes to release the flavors.

Simmer with stock and seasoning

Pour in the fish stock and add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Add the fish and cook gently

Place the fish pieces into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily.

Stir in the prawns

Add the cooked prawns to the stew and warm through for 2–3 minutes.

Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or boiled rice.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Crusty sourdough bread – Perfect for mopping up the rich broth.
• Steamed basmati rice – Soaks in the flavorful stew beautifully.
• Garlic aioli on toast – Adds a creamy, garlicky punch.
• Lemon wedges – A squeeze adds freshness to every bite.
• Simple green salad – Balances the richness with a fresh crunch.
• Roasted baby potatoes – A hearty side that complements the stew.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Fish Stew

To help you get the most out of this recipe, here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Choose firm white fish – Cod, haddock, or hake hold their shape best during simmering.
• Don’t overcook the seafood – Fish and prawns can become rubbery if left in too long.
• Use homemade stock if possible – It enhances the flavor noticeably.
• Add a splash of white wine – Just a bit during simmering brings extra depth.
• Finish with lemon zest – A touch of zest before serving brightens the stew.
• Use fresh herbs generously – Parsley or basil adds aroma and color.
• Double the batch – It stores and freezes very well for busy nights.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Make it spicy – Add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili for heat.
• Add shellfish – Mussels or clams make it even more luxurious.
• Use coconut milk – For a creamy twist with tropical notes.
• Try different herbs – Dill or tarragon can change the flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian – Swap fish for chickpeas and use veggie stock.
• Add leafy greens – Spinach or kale can boost the nutrition.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Refrigerate within two hours – Let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Use glass containers – They help retain flavor better and are microwave-safe.
• Label the leftovers – Especially if freezing, to avoid guesswork later.
• Freeze in portions – Ideal for quick reheating on busy days.
• Avoid freezing prawns twice – Only freeze if the prawns weren’t previously frozen.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Stovetop method – Reheat gently over medium-low heat until warmed through. Avoid boiling.
• Microwave method – Heat in short bursts (2-minute intervals), stirring gently in between.
• From frozen – Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat using your preferred method.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Fish Stew Healthier?

• Use olive oil sparingly or opt for a spray version.
• Choose low-sodium fish stock to control salt content.
• Load up on vegetables like courgettes, carrots, or spinach.
• Skip the prawns to reduce cholesterol and calories.
• Serve with a whole grain like brown rice or quinoa.
• Avoid creamy toppings or buttered bread sides.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 540mg

FAQs

How do you keep fish from breaking apart in a stew?

Use firm white fish like cod, haddock, or hake, and cut them into large chunks. Gently place them into the simmering stew and avoid stirring too much after adding the fish. Let them poach in the liquid just until they flake easily.

Can you make fish stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato and vegetable base in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days. Add the fish and prawns just before serving and simmer gently to ensure a fresh and flaky texture.

When should you add prawns to fish stew?

Prawns should be added at the end of cooking. Since they are delicate and cook quickly, adding them in the last 2–3 minutes ensures they stay juicy and don’t turn rubbery.

What’s the best way to thicken fish stew?

To thicken fish stew naturally, simmer the tomato-based sauce uncovered for an extra 5–10 minutes before adding the fish. Tomato purée also helps thicken the broth without overpowering the flavor.

Final Words

This Mary Berry Fish Stew brings together simplicity and elegance in one warming dish. With its hearty ingredients and bold flavors, it’s the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and comforting.

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