Mary Berry Fish Stew Recipe

Mary Berry Fish Stew is a comforting yet light dish that brings together tender pieces of fish gently cooked in a fragrant, tomato-based broth. It’s warming without being heavy, making it ideal for cosy evenings, relaxed family dinners, or when you want something nourishing and full of flavour. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this stew delivers depth and balance while letting the natural taste of the fish shine through.

What Is Mary Berry Fish Stew?

Mary Berry Fish Stew is a classic British-style seafood dish made with white fish, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs simmered into a rich but delicate broth. Unlike thick chowders, this stew is lighter, allowing the fish to remain flaky and tender. The flavours develop gently, creating a dish that feels both homely and refined.

Other Popular Mary Berry Recipes

• Mary Berry Steak And Kidney
• Mary Berry Fish Pie with Cheesy Mash
• Mary Berry Fish Pie With Crushed Potato Topping
• Mary Berry Cornish Pasty

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Light yet satisfying – Comforting without being overly rich.
• Quick to prepare – Perfect for weeknight cooking.
• Naturally flavourful – Relies on fresh ingredients rather than heavy cream.
• Versatile dish – Works with different types of fish.
• Easy to pair – Complements simple sides beautifully.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Fish Stew

• 500g white fish (cod, haddock, or pollock), cut into large chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 400g chopped tomatoes (tinned)
• 250ml fish stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, to finish
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Large saucepan or deep frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Ladle

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Heat the oil – Warm olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Soften the onion – Add chopped onion and cook gently until soft and translucent.
• Add garlic and spice – Stir in garlic and paprika, cooking briefly to release aroma.
• Build the base – Mix in tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, fish stock, and bay leaf.
• Simmer gently – Allow the stew to simmer for 10–12 minutes to develop flavour.
• Add the fish – Nestle fish chunks into the stew, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
• Cook until tender – Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the fish flakes easily.
• Season and finish – Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with parsley.
• Serve warm – Finish with lemon juice if using and serve immediately.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Fish fell apart – Used larger chunks and avoided stirring once added.
• Stew tasted flat – Increased seasoning and added a squeeze of lemon at the end.
• Sauce felt too thin – Simmered a few minutes longer before adding the fish.
• Garlic tasted sharp – Lowered the heat to avoid browning.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Use extra vegetables like peppers or courgettes for added nutrients.
• Reduce the oil slightly without affecting the flavour.
• Choose lean white fish only.
• Add fresh herbs generously for flavour without extra salt.
• Serve with vegetables instead of bread for a lighter meal.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Swap white fish with salmon for a richer version.
• Replace paprika with smoked paprika for depth.
• Use vegetable stock instead of fish stock.
• Add prawns for extra texture.
• Replace parsley with dill or chives.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Serve with crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Add steamed rice – Turns it into a fuller meal.
• Pair with boiled potatoes – A classic and comforting option.
• Include a green salad – Balances the warmth of the stew.
• Serve with buttered greens – Adds colour and freshness.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Keep fish pieces large – Prevents breaking apart.
• Simmer gently – High heat toughens fish.
• Season in stages – Builds balanced flavour.
• Add fish last – Keeps it tender and moist.
• Finish with fresh herbs – Brightens the dish.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Add chilli flakes for gentle heat.
• Include fennel for a subtle aniseed note.
• Stir in olives or capers for briny depth.
• Add cream at the end for a richer version.
• Use mixed seafood for variety.

Storing Mary Berry Fish Stew the Right Way

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
• Store in an airtight container to keep flavours fresh.
• Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
• Avoid freezing, as fish texture can change.
• Consume promptly for the best quality.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Fish Stew

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
• Stir carefully to keep the fish intact.
• Add a splash of stock if the stew thickens.
• Avoid boiling during reheating.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fibre: 3g
• Sodium: Moderate

Print

FAQs

Why does fish fall apart in fish stew?

Fish breaks apart when it is stirred too much or cooked at high heat. Use large chunks of fish, add them only at the end, and keep the stew at a gentle simmer so the fish cooks softly without breaking.

How do I thicken fish stew without using cream or flour?

Let the stew simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before adding the fish. The tomatoes and stock will naturally reduce and thicken, giving the stew body without needing cream or flour.

Can I use frozen fish for fish stew?

Yes, frozen fish works well if fully thawed and patted dry first. Removing excess moisture prevents the stew from becoming watery and helps the flavours stay concentrated.

When should I add herbs to fish stew?

Fresh herbs should be added at the end of cooking. This keeps their flavour bright and prevents bitterness, especially with delicate herbs like parsley or dill.

Wrapping It Up

Mary Berry Fish Stew is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that proves comfort food doesn’t need to be heavy. With its gentle flavours, tender fish, and warming broth, it’s perfect for everyday meals or relaxed entertaining. Easy to adapt and quick to prepare, this stew is one you’ll reach for again and again.