Slow Cooker Creamy Tarragon Monkfish for an Easy Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more intense flavor, consider sautéing the shallots in a little butter before placing them in the slow cooker, though this is optional. Adding a splash of dry white wine can also enhance the complexity of the sauce, provided it is added at the start of the cooking time to allow the alcohol to evaporate fully.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the fish once cooked and whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry to the sauce in the slow cooker, setting it to high for a few minutes until thickened. Always whisk the slurry thoroughly before adding to prevent lumps, and stir gently to avoid breaking the delicate fish pieces.

Variations

• Lemon Tarragon Monkfish: Add one tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to the slow cooker before starting. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the heavy cream, providing a bright and vibrant finish that complements the earthy notes of the tarragon perfectly.
• Garlic and Tarragon Monkfish: Incorporate two cloves of minced garlic along with the shallots for a deeper, more savory flavor profile. The garlic mellows significantly during the slow cooking process, adding a subtle warmth that pairs exceptionally well with the cream and fresh herbs.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate and the texture of the fish can become compromised upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Allow any leftovers to cool for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep the fish and the sauce together to ensure the fish remains moist during storage.

Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally on a shelf rather than in the door, to maintain a consistent temperature and ensure the best quality for up to two days.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the components can be prepared in advance. You can chop the shallots and tarragon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.

Assemble the dish in the slow cooker insert shortly before cooking to prevent the fish from sitting in the cream for too long, which could affect its texture. Avoid cooking the dish fully in advance if you want to maintain the best quality.

Serving ideas

Serve this creamy monkfish over a bed of steamed basmati rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the luxurious sauce.

A side of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the cream and the density of the monkfish, creating a well-rounded and visually appealing plate that highlights the elegance of the dish.

A light green salad with a sharp vinaigrette also pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, cutting through the richness and cleansing the palate between bites.

Serve with a slice of crusty baguette to ensure every drop of the tarragon-infused sauce is enjoyed. The presentation should be simple, allowing the quality of the fish and the sauce to remain the focus of the meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Creamy Tarragon Monkfish for an Easy Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 3 hTotal 3 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb monkfish tail, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
• 1 cube vegetable or fish bouillon cube, crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Place the monkfish chunks into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure the pieces are spread out in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the chopped shallots and fresh tarragon over the fish. Sprinkle the crumbled bouillon cube evenly over the top, then pour the heavy cream over all ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours until the fish is tender.
3. Carefully transfer the cooked monkfish and the creamy sauce to individual plates. Serve immediately while hot, ensuring the sauce is spooned over the fish to keep it moist and flavorful.

Contains: fish, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

6 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.