
This elegant seafood stew combines fresh salmon and cod in a creamy French-style sauce. The delicate fish pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that enhances every bite.
I discovered this seafood variation of the classic French blanquette during a visit to coastal Brittany, and it has since become my signature dish for family gatherings.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Salmon: Choose fresh fillets with firm, bright pink flesh
- Cod: Look for thick, pearly white pieces for even cooking
- Leeks: Select firm, bright white stalks
- Carrots: Young carrots work best for their natural sweetness
- Heavy cream: Full-fat cream creates the smoothest sauce
- Whole grain mustard: Adds texture and subtle tang
Step-by-Step Preparation
- 1.
- Begin by finely dicing the shallots for proper melting into the sauce. Cut carrots and leeks into even rounds to ensure consistent cooking.
- 2.
- Slowly sweat the vegetables to release their natural flavors without browning. This aromatic base is crucial for the sauce's depth.
- 3.
- Add white wine and stock gradually. The wine provides gentle acidity to balance the cream, while the stock adds depth.
- 4.
- Cook the fish gently until it flakes into large, tender pieces. Pressure cooking helps maintain moisture.
- 5.
- When thickening the sauce, ensure the cream-mustard-flour mixture is completely smooth before incorporating.
- 6.
- Finish and serve promptly while the sauce is at its ideal consistency.
The success of this dish relies on balancing the delicate fish with the rich, creamy sauce.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or boiled potatoes, which soak up the flavorful sauce.
This recipe has become a trusted choice for elegant comfort food, demonstrating how classic dishes can be successfully reimagined while honoring traditional techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap the fish for something else?
- Definitely! Black pollock or hake also work great, just pick firm-textured fish.
- → How do I stop the fish from breaking apart?
- Be gentle when stirring the sauce into the dish, and don’t overcook.
- → What if I don’t have a pressure cooker?
- No problem! Cook on low heat for around 20 minutes, watching the fish closely.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- It’s best eaten fresh to keep the fish texture at its best.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
- Steamed potatoes or basmati rice make perfect pairings for the delicious sauce.