When it comes to cooking for special occasions, you want dishes that will impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds. One fish that’s often overlooked but deserves attention is monkfish. With its firm texture and mild flavor, monkfish can be cooked in a variety of ways to create memorable meals. And who better to learn from than the fiery Gordon Ramsay? In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful recipes for monkfish that are perfect for special occasions.
From classic dishes like pan-seared monkfish with lemon butter sauce to more exotic options like monkfish tagine with apricots, these recipes showcase the versatility of monkfish. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a show-stopping main course for a holiday feast, we’ve got you covered.
Gordon Ramsay’s Pan-Seared Monkfish with Lemon Butter Sauce
A classic combination of tender monkfish, crispy skin, and a zesty lemon butter sauce makes for a show-stopping main course. This recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the monkfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the monkfish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the monkfish cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and white wine (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
6. Serve the pan-seared monkfish with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Tail with Chorizo and White Beans
This Spanish-inspired dish combines the tender monkfish tail with the bold flavors of chorizo and creamy white beans. A perfect combination for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish tails (about 120g each)
– 2 chorizo sausages, sliced
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Season the monkfish tails with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the monkfish for 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, cook the chorizo slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
5. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet and sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
6. Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve the monkfish with the chorizo, white bean mixture, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Curry with Coconut Milk
This rich and flavorful curry is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the tender monkfish to shine alongside the creamy coconut milk. With its aromatic spices and perfect balance of flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb monkfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add monkfish and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Grilled Monkfish with Herb Crust
A flavorful and elegant dish that showcases the delicate flavor of monkfish, perfectly balanced by a fragrant herb crust. This recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mixed herbs (parsley, dill, chives, and tarragon)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together herbs, garlic, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the monkfish fillets with olive oil and season with the herb mixture.
4. Place the monkfish on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish and Prawn Risotto
This seafood risotto is a masterclass in texture and flavor, with succulent monkfish and prawns swimming in a creamy Arborio rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g monkfish fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 12 large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 150g Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 20g unsalted butter
– 25g grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed fish stock, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in monkfish and prawns. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Wrapped in Parma Ham
This decadent dish is a masterclass in simplicity, where the rich flavors of monkfish and Parma ham come together to create a culinary symphony. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be treated to a taste sensation that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 8 slices of Parma ham
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the monkfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each fillet in 2 slices of Parma ham, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wrapped monkfish for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the monkfish is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Stew with Saffron and Tomatoes
This hearty stew is a masterclass in bold flavors, where tender monkfish takes center stage alongside the subtle warmth of saffron and the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. A true showstopper for any dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb monkfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup saffron-infused chicken broth (see note)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add monkfish, saffron broth, crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
3. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Roasted Monkfish with Garlic and Thyme
A classic dish that showcases the tender flesh of monkfish, elevated by the pungency of garlic and thyme. This recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the monkfish fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped thyme.
4. Place the monkfish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic-thyme mixture.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Kebabs with Spicy Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with this bold and flavorful recipe for monkfish kebabs, smothered in a spicy marinade that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 400g monkfish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add monkfish pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated monkfish onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish with Brown Butter and Capers
This elegant dish showcases the tender monkfish paired with a rich brown butter sauce, finished with a tangy kick from capers. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season monkfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add monkfish fillets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove monkfish from skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until butter turns golden brown (about 5 minutes).
7. Stir in capers and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve monkfish with brown butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish and Clam Paella
A classic Spanish dish gets a British twist with the addition of tender monkfish and succulent clams, all wrapped up in a rich and flavorful paella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound monkfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clams, scrubbed clean and patted dry
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the monkfish; cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the clams; cook until they open, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the Arborio rice, fish stock, and saffron mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Cheeks in White Wine Sauce
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Cheeks in White Wine Sauce: A decadent and indulgent treat that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. This recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the monkfish to shine through.
Ingredients:
– 12 monkfish cheeks
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the monkfish cheeks under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the monkfish cheeks and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the white wine, butter, and lemon juice.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the monkfish is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish with Crispy Pancetta and Peas
This recipe showcases the tender flavor of monkfish, elevated by the crunch of crispy pancetta and sweetness of fresh peas. A harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pancetta, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season monkfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add pancetta slices and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add monkfish fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Add fresh peas to the skillet and stir to combine with monkfish and pancetta bits.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Bourguignon
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic Beef Bourguignon, using tender monkfish instead. The result is a rich and flavorful stew that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb monkfish fillets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add monkfish, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Get ready for a crispy, flavorful twist on traditional seafood – monkfish tempura like you’ve never had before! This recipe combines tender monkfish with a light, airy batter and a tangy dipping sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound monkfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauce ingredients (below)
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced green onion
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and soda water to make the batter.
2. Dip monkfish pieces into the batter, making sure they’re fully coated.
3. Fry the battered monkfish in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish and Scallop Skewers
These succulent skewers are a masterclass in flavor and presentation, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. By combining tender monkfish with plump scallops and a zesty marinade, you’ll be serving up a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 monkfish pieces (about 1 inch each)
– 16 scallops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add monkfish and scallops to the marinade; toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated fish and scallops onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish with Mussels and Cream Sauce
A luxurious and flavorful dish that combines the tender monkfish with briny mussels, all wrapped up in a rich cream sauce. This recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season monkfish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Add mussels to the skillet; cook until they open (about 3-5 minutes). Remove mussels from the skillet, leaving the liquid behind.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Whisk in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Place monkfish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the mussel mixture over each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until monkfish is cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish Tagine with Apricots
This Moroccan-inspired dish is a masterclass in flavor and texture, where tender monkfish is slow-cooked in a rich apricot-infused sauce. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory, this tagine is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb monkfish fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons ras el hanout spice blend
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the monkfish, apricots, broth, honey, and ras el hanout; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish en Papillote with Herbs
This classic French recipe showcases the tender and flavorful monkfish, wrapped in a fragrant herb-infused parchment paper. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s both elegant and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup fish stock
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 4 sprigs of fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together white wine, fish stock, and olive oil.
3. Place a monkfish fillet in the center of each parchment paper piece.
4. Drizzle the wine mixture over the fish, then sprinkle with thyme and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, creating a tight seal.
7. Place the en papillote on a baking sheet and cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gordon Ramsay’s Monkfish with Black Truffle Butter
This decadent dish is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the tender monkfish to shine alongside the earthy richness of black truffle butter. A perfect pairing for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of monkfish tail, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon black truffle butter (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the monkfish with salt and pepper.
3. In a hot skillet, sear the monkfish for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt the truffle butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. Serve the monkfish with the warm black truffle butter spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 flavorful Gordon Ramsay monkfish recipes perfect for special occasions. From pan-seared monkfish with lemon butter sauce to grilled monkfish with herb crust, and from monkfish curry with coconut milk to monkfish stew with saffron and tomatoes, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a celebratory feast, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So why wait? Dive into the world of Gordon Ramsay’s delicious monkfish creations today!
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