Cod Shrimp Blanquette: Savory & Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Why This Creamy Cod Shrimp Blanquette Will Win Your Heart

Picture this: a cozy winter evening, the smell of fresh seafood mingling with herbs wafting through your kitchen. That’s exactly how I felt when I first made this **Cod Shrimp Blanquette**. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is bound to impress. The creamy sauce, tender cod, and juicy shrimp create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

A Little History Behind the Dish

This dish draws inspiration from the classic French blanquette, traditionally made with veal or chicken. Over time, creative cooks swapped meat for fish, giving birth to seafood versions like this one. I remember stumbling upon an old French cookbook at a flea market years ago. One recipe caught my eye—a humble yet elegant blanquette de poisson. I decided to give it a try, adding shrimp for extra flair. Since then, it’s become a staple in my home. It’s a perfect example of how tradition meets innovation in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this **Cod Shrimp Blanquette** so special? First, it’s packed with flavor but not overly complicated. The creamy sauce is rich without being heavy, thanks to the touch of lemon juice that brightens everything up. Second, it’s quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Finally, it’s versatile. Serve it over rice, with crusty bread, or alongside steamed veggies. Every bite feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Perfect Occasions to Prepare This Recipe

This dish shines during casual family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also ideal for holiday gatherings, especially if you’re looking for something lighter than a traditional roast. I’ve served it at dinner parties paired with a crisp white wine, and it always gets rave reviews. Trust me, your friends will think you spent hours slaving over it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 400 g of cod fillet, cut into chunks
• 200 g of peeled shrimp
• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 20 cl of liquid cream
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• 20 cl of vegetable broth or fish stock
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 bouquet garni (bay leaf, thyme, parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon

Substitution Options

If you can’t find cod, substitute it with haddock or pollock. For shrimp, small scallops work beautifully too. Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if needed. If dairy isn’t your thing, use coconut cream instead of regular cream. Feel free to adjust the veggies based on what’s in season—zucchini or peas are great additions.

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and leeks. Sauté them gently until they soften and release their sweet aroma. This step is crucial—it builds the foundation of flavor. Pro tip: Don’t rush it! Let the vegetables sweat slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Adding the Flour

Once the veggies are tender, sprinkle the flour over them. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Think of this as the glue that holds the sauce together. Cook it for a minute or two to get rid of any raw flour taste. The mixture should look slightly glossy and smell nutty.

Step 3: Incorporating the Broth

Pour in the broth or fish stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Toss in the bouquet garni for an herby boost. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce starting to thicken slightly. Doesn’t it smell amazing already?

Step 4: Cooking the Cod

Gently place the cod chunks into the pot. Cover and let them cook for 5 minutes. The fish will turn opaque and flaky, signaling it’s done. Be careful not to stir too vigorously—you don’t want to break up the delicate pieces. Chef’s tip: Use a slotted spoon to handle the fish gently.

Step 5: Adding the Shrimp

Now it’s time for the star of the show—the shrimp! Drop them into the pot and let them cook for another 3 minutes. They’ll turn pink and curl slightly, which means they’re ready. The combination of cod and shrimp creates a luxurious texture contrast that’s simply divine.

Step 6: Making the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, cream, and lemon juice. Remove the pot from the heat before pouring in this mixture. Stir gently to combine. Why take it off the heat? To prevent the eggs from scrambling. This step gives the sauce its velvety finish. Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning now—it’s your last chance!

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove the bouquet garni and season with salt and pepper. Give it one final stir to ensure everything is well-blended. Your **Cod Shrimp Blanquette** is now ready to serve. Doesn’t it look gorgeous?

Timing Breakdown

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total: 40 minutes

Chef’s Secret

Here’s a little trick I learned along the way: Always add the shrimp towards the end of cooking. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and we definitely don’t want that. Timing is key!

An Interesting Fact About the Ingredients

Did you know that cod has been a staple in European diets since medieval times? Its mild flavor and firm texture make it incredibly versatile. Paired with shrimp, which are rich in iodine, this dish isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious too!

Necessary Equipment

You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, a whisk, and a sharp knife for chopping veggies. A slotted spoon comes in handy for handling delicate fish pieces.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, transfer the blanquette to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It keeps well for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing is possible but not ideal due to the cream-based sauce. If you do freeze, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

For best results, enjoy this dish fresh. The flavors are brightest when served immediately after preparation.

Tips and Advice

Use the freshest ingredients you can find. Fresh fish and shrimp make all the difference. Pat the fish dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce. And don’t skip the lemon—it adds a zesty kick that balances the richness.

Presentation Ideas

• Serve in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Garnish with a wedge of lemon for a pop of color.
• Pair with fluffy white rice or crusty baguette slices.

Healthier Alternatives

Want to lighten things up? Try these variations:

1. Low-Fat Version: Replace cream with Greek yogurt.
2. Vegan Option: Use plant-based protein like tofu and skip the dairy entirely.
3. Gluten-Free Twist: Swap flour for cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
5. Herbaceous Boost: Stir in fresh dill or chives before serving.
6. Seafood Medley: Mix in mussels or clams for variety.

Mistake 1: Overcooking the Fish

Fish cooks quickly, and overdoing it leads to dry, tough bites. Keep an eye on the cod while it simmers. As soon as it turns opaque, it’s done. Practical tip: Set a timer to avoid distractions.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Lemon Juice

The acidity of lemon is essential to balance the creaminess. Without it, the dish might feel flat. Always squeeze fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Mistake 3: Not Patting the Fish Dry

Wet fish releases water into the sauce, making it watery. Use paper towels to pat the cod dry before adding it to the pot.

Mistake 4: Rushing the Veggie Sauté

Don’t crank up the heat to speed things along. Slowly sautéing the veggies ensures they caramelize and develop deep flavors.

Mistake 5: Boiling the Sauce After Adding Cream

Boiling the sauce once the cream is added can cause it to curdle. Always remove the pot from heat before incorporating the cream mixture.

FAQ: Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! While it tastes best fresh, you can prep components ahead. Chop the veggies and measure out the liquids beforehand. Just assemble and cook when ready to serve.

FAQ: What Wine Pairs Well With This Dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the seafood beautifully. Its citrus notes echo the lemon in the sauce.

FAQ: Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Yes! Kids love the creamy sauce and mild flavors. You can omit the shrimp if they’re picky eaters.

FAQ: Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Of course! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before using.

FAQ: How Do I Know When the Sauce Is Thick Enough?

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon lightly. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.

FAQ: Can I Double the Recipe?

Definitely. Simply double all ingredients and use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume.

And there you have it—a complete guide to mastering **Cod Shrimp Blanquette**. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe promises satisfaction every time. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!