Mary Berry Watercress Sauce Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously fresh and vibrant twist to your meals, Mary Berry’s watercress sauce is an absolute must-try!

This simple yet flavorful sauce packs a punch of peppery goodness from the watercress, balanced with rich creaminess that enhances any dish it accompanies. Whether you’re drizzling it over grilled meats, vegetables, or even a hearty soup, it’s the perfect way to elevate your cooking with minimal effort. Plus, with Mary Berry’s signature style, you know the recipe is both reliable and easy to follow-perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike!

Mary Berry Watercress Sauce Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce, the ingredients are simple but packed with flavor, offering a fresh, peppery punch that enhances a variety of dishes. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Fresh Watercress – This is the star of the sauce, contributing its distinct, slightly spicy flavor. Watercress is known for its vibrant green color and peppery taste, making it a perfect match for many meats, especially steak or poached fish.
2. Butter – This rich, creamy fat is the base of the sauce, helping to carry the flavor of the watercress and creating a smooth texture. It also adds a slight richness to balance the peppery bite of the watercress.
3. Cream – Heavy cream is essential to give the sauce a velvety, luxurious texture. The cream helps to mellow out the sharpness of the watercress and creates a rich, smooth finish that clings beautifully to your dish.
4. Garlic – A clove or two of garlic adds depth to the sauce, complementing the watercress while preventing the flavor from becoming overly sharp or pungent.
5. Vegetable or Chicken Stock – A light stock (either vegetable or chicken) is used to deglaze the pan and create the foundation of the sauce. The stock provides savory depth and balances out the richness from the butter and cream.
6. Salt and Pepper – These basic seasonings help to elevate the flavors. The amount of salt can vary based on the stock you use, so taste as you go. Freshly ground black pepper is added to enhance the overall taste and harmonize with the peppery nature of the watercress.
7. Lemon Juice (Optional) – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be added at the end for a touch of acidity that brightens the sauce, balancing its richness and adding a zesty finish.

These ingredients come together to form a flavorful, creamy sauce that’s the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, adding freshness and sophistication.

Equipment Needed

While Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce doesn’t require any specialized equipment, there are a few basic kitchen tools that will make the process easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Pan or Saucepan – A wide, shallow pan or saucepan is ideal for making this sauce. It provides enough surface area for sautéing the garlic and reducing the stock, while allowing the butter and cream to emulsify properly.
2. Sharp Knife and Chopping Board – A good, sharp knife is essential for chopping the watercress and garlic. When chopping watercress, you want to retain its freshness, so precision in chopping will help ensure it blends smoothly into the sauce.
3. Wooden Spoon or Whisk – A wooden spoon or whisk is needed to stir the sauce as it simmers. This ensures that all the ingredients come together well and prevents any burning or sticking at the bottom of the pan.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups – For accuracy, having measuring spoons and cups on hand will ensure you get the right proportions of stock, cream, and butter, especially if you’re aiming to replicate Mary Berry’s recipe exactly.
5. Blender or Hand Blender (Optional) – While not strictly necessary, a blender or immersion blender can be useful if you prefer a completely smooth sauce. If you want a creamy consistency without any texture from the watercress, you can blend the sauce after cooking it.
6. Ladle or Spoon – A ladle or large spoon will be helpful for serving the sauce once it’s ready. It allows you to drizzle the sauce evenly over your dish without making a mess.

These tools will help you create a smooth and well-balanced watercress sauce that beautifully complements your dish.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce

Creating Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce is a straightforward process, though it delivers a surprisingly complex and delicious result. Follow these steps for a sauce that’s sure to impress:

1. Prepare the Watercress – Begin by thoroughly washing the watercress to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then roughly chop it, discarding any tough stems. Set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic – In a large saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to let it brown, as that can create a bitter taste.
3. Add the Stock – Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the stock to reduce slightly, concentrating its flavor. This step usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Watercress – Now, add the chopped watercress to the pan, stirring it into the stock and garlic mixture. Allow the watercress to cook down slightly, wilting into the sauce for 2-3 minutes. As it wilts, the watercress releases its peppery juices, adding depth and flavor to the sauce.
5. Stir in the Cream and Butter – Reduce the heat to low and add the cream and remaining butter. Stir gently, allowing the cream to fully incorporate and the butter to melt. This will create a rich, velvety texture. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Season the Sauce – Taste the sauce and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. You can also squeeze in a little lemon juice at this stage if you prefer a tangy kick to the sauce.
7. Blend the Sauce (Optional) – For an ultra-smooth consistency, use an immersion blender or a countertop blender to blend the sauce until completely smooth. This step is optional, depending on your texture preference. If you like a little more texture and presence from the watercress, you can skip blending it.
8. Serve – Once the sauce is ready, drizzle it generously over your chosen dish. It pairs wonderfully with steak, poached fish, or even a vegetable-based meal.

With minimal effort, you’ve created a fragrant, creamy watercress sauce that brings a fresh burst of flavor to any meal.

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh, Vibrant Watercress – The key to a great watercress sauce lies in the quality of the watercress. Make sure to use fresh, crisp watercress for the best flavor and color. If the watercress is wilted or overly mature, it may not deliver the same fresh, peppery bite.
2. Adjust Consistency to Your Liking – Depending on how thick you like your sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of cream or stock. If you want a thinner sauce, add a bit more stock. For a thicker, richer sauce, increase the cream or let it reduce further before serving.
3. Consider Flavored Stocks – For a more nuanced flavor, consider using a homemade vegetable or chicken stock. Store-bought stocks can sometimes lack depth, so if you have the time, making your own stock can elevate the flavor of the sauce.
4. Fresh Lemon vs. Vinegar – If you want to brighten the sauce without the tang of lemon, a tiny splash of white wine vinegar can do the job, providing a slightly sharper acidity that complements the richness of the cream and butter.
5. Make Ahead – This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring to restore its smooth texture.

Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish full of richness and flavor. With its creamy texture, fresh watercress flavor, and just the right balance of richness from butter and cream, this sauce can elevate almost any meal.

Whether paired with succulent steak, delicate fish, or even roasted vegetables, it brings an unexpected layer of complexity that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. By following these detailed steps and incorporating expert tips, you’ll be able to master this versatile sauce and bring a touch of Mary Berry’s culinary expertise to your kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce

Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce is a wonderfully versatile and fresh accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Its peppery, vibrant flavor can be made to suit different palates or to complement various meals with a few simple tweaks. Here are some easy recipe variations that can elevate your culinary creations:

1. Lemon and Garlic Twist: If you’re craving a bit of zest and extra punch, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a minced garlic clove can really transform the sauce. The acidity of the lemon brightens the peppery flavor of the watercress, while garlic lends a savory depth that pairs well with fish, grilled meats, or even roasted vegetables.

2. Creamy Watercress Sauce: For a richer, more luxurious version of the sauce, you can incorporate heavy cream or crème fraîche. This variation makes the sauce smoother and velvety, perfect for drizzling over chicken, lamb, or pasta. The creaminess balances the slight bitterness of the watercress, creating a comforting and indulgent experience.

3. Chive and Dill Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives or dill for a herbal lift. These herbs work wonderfully with the watercress’s peppery notes, offering a fragrant touch to the sauce. This version complements seafood dishes, particularly salmon or prawns, where the herbaceous quality of the sauce enhances the natural flavors of the fish.

4. Spicy Watercress Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili can be added to the sauce. The heat elevates the watercress’s peppery undertones, offering a spicy contrast to creamy dishes like pasta or mashed potatoes. This variation is also excellent as a drizzle over grilled meats, giving them a fiery kick.

5. Vegan Watercress Sauce: For a plant-based option, you can easily make the sauce dairy-free by substituting any creamy ingredients with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. This keeps the sauce light and fresh but still creamy enough to serve as a flavorful topping for roasted vegetables, tofu, or vegan burgers.

By adjusting these variations, you can create a personalized watercress sauce that fits perfectly with the dishes you love, all while enhancing the freshness and complexity of Mary Berry’s original recipe.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Watercress Sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. Here are some best practices for storing the sauce:

1. Refrigeration: After making the sauce, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the sauce in the fridge where it can keep for about 2 to 3 days. The cold will help slow down any bacterial growth and preserve the freshness of the watercress. However, it’s important to note that watercress is a delicate herb, and the sauce might lose some of its bright green color after being refrigerated.

2. Avoid Freezing: While it may be tempting to freeze the sauce for later use, freezing watercress sauce is not recommended. The watercress’s texture and flavor can degrade upon thawing, resulting in a less appealing consistency. The sauce may also become watery when frozen and thawed, which diminishes the overall quality.

3. Stir Before Using: When you’re ready to use leftovers, give the sauce a good stir. Separation can occur in the fridge, especially if there are creamy ingredients in the sauce. Simply whisk or blend it again before serving to restore its smooth texture.

4. Use Within a Few Days: While the sauce can last a couple of days in the refrigerator, it’s best to consume it as soon as possible for optimal flavor. If it starts to change in taste, color, or texture, it’s a sign that it’s past its prime.

By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your leftover watercress sauce stays as fresh and delicious as when it was first made.

What Goes Well With Watercress Sauce

Watercress Sauce has a fresh, peppery flavor that pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes. Whether you’re preparing a light springtime meal or a hearty winter dinner, this sauce can elevate a variety of proteins and vegetables. Here are some ideas on what to serve with watercress sauce:

1. Fish and Seafood: Watercress Sauce is a natural companion for fish, particularly delicate white fish like cod, sole, or halibut. Its mild heat and peppery flavor enhance the fish’s natural sweetness. It also works beautifully with seafood like shrimp or scallops, balancing their rich flavor with the freshness of the sauce. For a more indulgent option, serve it alongside a pan-seared salmon fillet or grilled tuna steak.

2. Grilled Meats: The peppery zing of watercress sauce cuts through the richness of grilled meats such as lamb, pork, or steak. Try drizzling it over a juicy lamb chop or a grilled chicken breast for a sophisticated twist. The bright green sauce contrasts beautifully with the deep, savory flavors of the meat, adding a refreshing layer of complexity to the dish.

3. Vegetables: The freshness of watercress sauce also complements roasted or steamed vegetables. Think roasted potatoes, carrots, asparagus, or even a vegetable medley of peas, beans, and bell peppers. The sauce adds a refreshing element to earthy vegetables and works as a flavorful dressing for a vegetable-centric meal, such as a roasted vegetable salad.

4. Eggs: Watercress Sauce can bring a fresh vibrancy to egg dishes. Try pairing it with poached eggs on toast, scrambled eggs, or an omelette. The sharpness of the sauce enhances the creamy richness of the eggs and gives the dish a peppery lift.

5. Pasta and Grains: For a more unexpected pairing, try tossing watercress sauce with your favorite pasta or grain dish. It works beautifully with a creamy pasta, such as fettuccine Alfredo, providing a fresh contrast to the richness of the cream. It’s also a great sauce to mix with quinoa, couscous, or rice for a lighter side dish that still packs a punch.

6. Cheese: The peppery bite of watercress sauce pairs wonderfully with cheese, particularly softer varieties like goat cheese or ricotta. Serve it as a topping for a cheese platter, or drizzle it over a baked cheese dish for a burst of freshness. It also pairs well with hard cheeses like parmesan, which enhances its umami notes.

In essence, watercress sauce can be paired with almost any savory dish, from light seafood to hearty meats, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce is an elegant yet simple addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and peppery flavor. Its versatility makes it adaptable to a range of dishes, from seafood to grilled meats, and even creamy pasta.

By exploring different variations, such as adding herbs, spices, or making it creamier, you can customize the sauce to fit your personal tastes. Proper storage is key to preserving the sauce’s vibrant flavor and texture, so following best practices will ensure it remains as delicious as when it was first made.

Finally, whether paired with fish, vegetables, or eggs, watercress sauce can elevate a wide variety of dishes, making it a must-have in any kitchen. With its unique blend of fresh, peppery flavors, this sauce is an easy way to add a sophisticated touch to your meals without much effort.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce Recipe?

The key ingredients in Mary Berry’s watercress sauce recipe are fresh watercress, butter, cream, vegetable stock, and a touch of seasoning such as salt and pepper. The sauce is rich and creamy, making it a great accompaniment to a variety of dishes like fish or chicken.

Can I Substitute The Cream In Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the cream in Mary Berry’s watercress sauce with alternatives like half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy option like coconut cream or almond milk, depending on your dietary preferences.

How Do You Make Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce From Scratch?

To make Mary Berry’s watercress sauce from scratch, melt butter in a pan, add the vegetable stock, and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then, stir in the cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add the fresh watercress and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper, and blend until smooth for a silky finish.

Can I Use Frozen Watercress For Mary Berry’s Sauce?

While fresh watercress is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen watercress if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen watercress before using it in the recipe.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce Last In The Fridge?

Mary Berry’s watercress sauce can last for up to 2-3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, it’s best to use it within this time frame.

What Dishes Pair Well With Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce?

Mary Berry’s watercress sauce pairs wonderfully with fish, especially salmon or white fish, roasted chicken, and even vegetables like asparagus or potatoes. It also works well as a topping for steamed greens or used in a sandwich with grilled meats.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s watercress sauce ahead of time. Simply prepare the sauce, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of cream or stock if it thickens too much during storage.

Is Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce Spicy?

No, Mary Berry’s watercress sauce is not spicy. It has a mild, peppery flavor from the watercress, but it’s not hot. The sauce is creamy and smooth, providing a subtle and fresh taste.

How Do I Make Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce Vegan?

To make Mary Berry’s watercress sauce vegan, simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter or olive oil, and replace the cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or oat cream. Ensure the vegetable stock is vegan-friendly as well.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Watercress Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze Mary Berry’s watercress sauce. Once it has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring to combine any separated ingredients.