Mary Berry Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish, Mary Berry’s sea bream with chive cream sauce is a must-try!

This recipe combines the delicate flavor of perfectly cooked sea bream with a rich, creamy chive sauce that adds a burst of freshness and depth. It’s a great way to impress guests or enjoy a lovely meal on your own, and it’s so simple to make, even for beginners. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to experiment with elegant flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for something new to try, this dish brings together everything you want in a seafood recipe – flavor, ease, and style!

Mary Berry Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s delicious Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce, a beautiful dish that balances the delicate flavors of fish with the richness of a velvety cream sauce, there are a few key ingredients that will elevate this dish to restaurant-quality levels. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Sea Bream Fillets – The star of the dish!

   Fresh sea bream, with its firm white flesh and delicate flavor, is perfect for this recipe. Choose fillets that are skin-on for added crispiness when cooking. Ideally, look for fish that is sustainably sourced for the best taste and environmental impact.

2. Double Cream – A luxurious, thick cream that will form the base of the sauce. Double cream provides a rich, velvety texture and a mild flavor that will complement the fish perfectly.

3. Chives – Fresh chives will bring a gentle onion-like flavor to the sauce. Their bright green color also adds a fresh and appealing look to the dish. Chives are a classic addition to creamy sauces and will enhance the flavors of the sea bream.

4. Lemon – A key ingredient to balance the richness of the cream. Lemon juice will bring acidity, brightening up the flavors of the fish and sauce, while lemon zest adds an aromatic zing.

5. Butter – Used for sautéing the fish and adding flavor to the sauce. Butter lends richness and a slightly nutty undertone to the dish, elevating the overall taste profile.

6. Garlic – Garlic, finely chopped, is sautéed in butter to create a fragrant base for the cream sauce. It imparts a subtle depth of flavor to the dish, making the sauce irresistibly aromatic.

7. White Wine – A splash of white wine deglazes the pan after cooking the fish, helping to release all the lovely flavors stuck to the pan. It adds a touch of acidity and depth to the sauce.

8. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish and balancing the flavors. A pinch of salt enhances the natural sweetness of the fish, while freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spice.

9. Olive Oil – For cooking the fish, a bit of olive oil will help crisp up the skin while maintaining the tenderness of the flesh. It also adds a subtle fruity flavor to the overall dish.

Equipment Needed

To make this elegant sea bream dish with chive cream sauce, you’ll need a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment. These tools will help you achieve the best results and ensure that the cooking process is smooth and efficient.

1. Non-Stick Frying Pan – A large, non-stick frying pan is ideal for cooking the sea bream fillets. The non-stick surface allows for easy flipping of the fillets without the risk of them sticking, and it’s perfect for creating a crisp, golden skin. A frying pan with a lid is also useful if you want to cover the fish briefly to retain moisture.

2. Saucepan – A small saucepan is needed to prepare the chive cream sauce. This pan is perfect for simmering the cream and adding in the garlic, white wine, and chives. A heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal, as it distributes heat evenly and prevents the cream from burning or curdling.

3. Chopping Board and Knife – A sharp knife and chopping board are essential for finely chopping the garlic and chives. Fresh, evenly chopped ingredients ensure the flavor and texture of the sauce are just right.

4. Lemon Zester or Grater – To zest the lemon, you’ll need a zester or fine grater. The zest will infuse the cream sauce with an aromatic, citrusy fragrance that adds brightness to the dish.

5. Tongs or Fish Slice – For flipping and lifting the fish fillets without damaging them, a set of tongs or a fish slice is crucial. These tools allow you to handle delicate fillets without breaking them apart.

6. Measuring Spoons – Accurate measurements of the lemon juice, wine, and seasonings will help you balance the flavors of the sauce, ensuring it’s neither too rich nor too tart.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, let’s dive into how to make Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce. This recipe is as simple as it is luxurious, and it comes together beautifully with a few straightforward steps.

1. Prepare The Fish

   • Begin by seasoning the sea bream fillets with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be generous, but not overwhelming, as you want to enhance the fish’s natural sweetness.
   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil and a knob of butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming, place the fish fillets skin-side down.
   • Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked through. When the fillets are done, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a warm plate, covering loosely with foil to keep them warm.

2. Prepare The Chive Cream Sauce

   • In the same frying pan, add a little more butter if needed and sauté the finely chopped garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. You don’t want it to burn, just soften.
   • Pour in the white wine, letting it bubble away and reduce for 1-2 minutes. This will help lift any bits of flavor left in the pan from cooking the fish.
   • Add the double cream to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
   • Stir in the chopped chives and a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or more lemon juice as desired.

3. Serve

   • Place each fish fillet on a plate and spoon the chive cream sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional chopped chives or a twist of lemon zest for an extra touch of freshness.
   • Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, like roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a simple buttery mashed potato.

Expert Tips

• Choosing Fresh Fish: Freshness is key when it comes to fish. Look for clear, moist eyes and bright red gills, and the flesh should be firm to the touch with a clean ocean-like smell. Buying from a reputable fishmonger ensures you get the best quality sea bream for this dish.

• Cooking Fish with Skin On: Cooking the fish with skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor. To get the skin extra crispy, make sure the frying pan is hot before placing the fish in. You can also press down gently on the fillet with a spatula during cooking to ensure the skin crisps evenly.

• Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: The chive cream sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated before serving. Just be sure to stir in a little extra cream if it thickens too much while sitting.

• Alternative Herbs: While chives are the star here, you could experiment with other herbs like dill, tarragon, or parsley. Each will bring its own distinct flavor profile to the dish, adding variety without compromising the dish’s delicate nature.

• Wine Pairing: For a perfect pairing, opt for a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine will complement the richness of the cream sauce and the mildness of the fish.

Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce is an elegant yet simple dish that captures the essence of fine dining without being overly complicated. With the perfect balance of fresh sea bream, silky cream, and aromatic herbs, this recipe offers a luxurious meal that’s sure to impress any guest. The chive cream sauce, with its smooth texture and subtle citrus kick, complements the fish beautifully, while the crispy skin adds a delightful contrast. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this dish brings sophistication to any table.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce

Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce is a stunning, elegant dish that combines the delicate flavor of the fish with the creamy, aromatic punch of chives. However, there are several ways to play around with the recipe to add variety or put a fresh spin on the dish. Here are some simple variations that can be easily incorporated without compromising on flavor:

1. Change the Fish: While sea bream is a fantastic choice, you can easily swap it out for other white, flaky fish such as cod, haddock, or sole. These alternatives will provide a similar texture and mild flavor, making them just as compatible with the creamy chive sauce.

2. Add a Zesty Twist: For a citrusy contrast, incorporate lemon or lime zest into the chive cream sauce. The citrus will cut through the richness of the cream, adding a refreshing element to balance the dish. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the entire plate.

3. Herb Variations: While chives are the star of the sauce, you can experiment with other fresh herbs to give the sauce a unique flair. Dill, tarragon, or parsley can be used in place of chives for an equally vibrant sauce. For an herbal kick, you could even combine two or more of these herbs.

4. Spicy Chive Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider infusing your chive cream sauce with a dash of chili flakes or finely minced fresh chili. A mild heat will complement the delicate fish, offering an unexpected yet delightful burst of flavor.

5. Sautéed Vegetables: To give the dish a more robust, hearty flavor, add some sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes alongside the sea bream. These vegetables pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and make the dish more colorful and nutritious.

6. Crunchy Topping: If you love a textural contrast, consider topping the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or slivered almonds. These can be lightly seasoned with garlic and butter to enhance their flavor. The crunchiness of the topping contrasts nicely with the smooth, rich sauce and flaky fish.

7. Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy, substitute the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. To maintain the creaminess, you could also add a little nutritional yeast or cashews that have been blended into a smooth paste.

8. Grilled Sea Bream: If you want to add a smoky dimension to the dish, consider grilling your sea bream instead of pan-frying it. The grill marks and slight char will impart a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chive cream sauce, providing a more rustic and outdoorsy feel to the dish.

These variations show that Mary Berry’s recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The key is to maintain the balance of fresh, light flavors that make this dish so special while experimenting with ingredients that enhance or complement that core concept.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After enjoying a delicious meal of Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Properly storing these leftovers is essential for preserving the flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s how to do it best:

1. Cool the Dish Quickly: Before storing your leftovers, it’s important to allow them to cool down to room temperature. However, don’t leave the food out for more than two hours to avoid any food safety risks. To speed up the cooling process, you can separate the fish from the sauce and place them in shallow containers, allowing air to circulate and cool them faster.

2. Store in an Airtight Container: For the best preservation, transfer your leftover sea bream and chive cream sauce into an airtight container. The sauce can separate or thicken upon cooling, so storing it properly ensures that both the fish and sauce retain their moisture and flavor when reheated.

3. Separate Components: If possible, store the fish and sauce separately. This will help the fish maintain its texture, preventing it from becoming soggy in the sauce. The sauce can also be reheated independently, which allows more control over its consistency and prevents it from breaking down.

4. Refrigerate or Freeze: Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within the next 1-2 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, freezing is an option. However, freezing the cream sauce may slightly alter its texture upon thawing, so it’s best to freeze only the fish and prepare fresh sauce when ready to serve. When freezing, ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.

5. Reheating: When reheating, be sure to do so gently. Reheat the fish in the oven or microwave at a low temperature to avoid drying it out. If you’ve stored the sauce separately, gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if it appears too thick.

6. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: It’s always best to only reheat what you plan to eat at one time. Reheating food multiple times can affect the texture and flavor of both the fish and the sauce, leading to a less enjoyable meal. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider using the extra sea bream in a salad or fish pie rather than reheating it again as a standalone meal.

By following these storage tips, you can extend the shelf life of your leftover sea bream and chive cream sauce while maintaining the integrity of the dish.

What Goes Well With Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce

Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce is a refined and delicate dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. The creamy, herb-infused sauce adds richness to the light fish, so the key to pairing is balancing the meal with something fresh and complementary. Here are some ideas that will elevate your dining experience:

1. Light Vegetables: Sea bream’s subtle flavor pairs wonderfully with light, fresh vegetables that won’t overpower the dish. Consider serving the fish with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or sautéed spinach. These vegetables add a touch of earthiness that complements the creamy sauce without overshadowing the delicate fish.

2. Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic accompaniment to fish dishes. You could go for crispy roasted potatoes for a bit of texture, or perhaps a creamy mashed potato, which would echo the smoothness of the sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, boiled new potatoes or a simple potato salad can balance the richness of the dish.

3. Grain Salads: For a healthy and filling side, try pairing the fish with a grain-based salad, such as quinoa or farro. These whole grains provide a nice bite and can absorb the flavors of the sauce while adding a nutty dimension to the meal.

4. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce. Think arugula, mixed greens, or a simple cucumber and radish salad. The acidity of the dressing will help balance the richness of the cream and offer a refreshing contrast.

5. Crusty Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread is always a great choice to soak up the leftover chive cream sauce. A simple baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta will work perfectly. You can even toast the bread lightly with some garlic butter for added flavor.

6. White Wine: When it comes to drinks, a crisp white wine works wonderfully with sea bream. Consider a Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or a Pinot Grigio. The bright acidity and subtle fruit notes of these wines pair beautifully with the delicate fish and creamy sauce, elevating the flavors of the meal.

7. Lemon or Citrus Garnish: A squeeze of fresh lemon or a zest of lime can be a wonderful garnish to brighten up the dish. The citrus cut through the creaminess of the sauce and enhances the fish’s natural flavors.

By pairing your Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce with complementary sides and drinks, you’ll create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that delights the palate and elevates the dining experience.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Sea Bream with Chive Cream Sauce is a versatile and elegant dish that captures the essence of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re sticking to the original recipe or experimenting with variations like adding citrus or switching up the herbs, there are endless ways to customize this dish to suit your taste.

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy the meal again without losing the freshness and flavor, while pairing the dish with light, complementary sides can elevate the experience even further. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish promises to impress with its balance of delicate fish, smooth sauce, and thoughtful accompaniments.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce Recipe?

The ingredients required for Mary Berry’s sea bream and chive cream sauce include sea bream fillets, olive oil, butter, garlic, lemon, white wine, double cream, fresh chives, and seasoning like salt and pepper.

How Do I Prepare The Sea Bream Fillets For This Recipe?

To prepare the sea bream fillets, pat them dry with kitchen paper, season with salt and pepper, and set them aside. You will then pan-fry the fillets with oil or butter for a crispy skin.

Can I Substitute The Sea Bream With Another Type Of Fish?

Yes, you can substitute sea bream with other white fish such as bass, cod, or snapper. Just ensure that the fish fillets are of a similar thickness to ensure even cooking.

What Is The Best Method To Cook The Sea Bream In This Recipe?

The best method to cook the sea bream in this recipe is to pan-fry the fillets. Heat a mixture of oil and butter in a pan, then cook the fillets skin-side down first for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

How Do I Make The Chive Cream Sauce For Mary Berry’s Recipe?

To make the chive cream sauce, melt butter in a pan, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add white wine and let it reduce slightly before stirring in double cream. Finally, add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Can I Use Low-fat Cream For The Chive Cream Sauce?

While you can use a lower-fat cream, the sauce will be less rich and creamy. The original recipe uses double cream, which gives a fuller flavor and smooth texture to the sauce.

How Do I Serve Mary Berry’s Sea Bream With Chive Cream Sauce?

Serve the pan-fried sea bream fillets with a generous spoonful of the chive cream sauce over the top. You can pair this dish with steamed vegetables, boiled potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Can I Make The Chive Cream Sauce In Advance?

Yes, you can make the chive cream sauce ahead of time. Simply prepare it, let it cool, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stove and stir in fresh chives just before serving.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-free?

Mary Berry’s sea bream and chive cream sauce recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, ensure that you are using gluten-free ingredients for the cream sauce, such as a certified gluten-free stock if you decide to use it instead of wine.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Sea Bream And Chive Cream Sauce Recipe?

The recipe takes about 25 to 30 minutes in total. It involves around 5 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes to cook the sea bream and prepare the sauce.