Fish Stew with Fennel and Baby Potatoes
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This elegant fish stew with fennel and baby potatoes is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours in a light yet comforting meal. The combination of delicate white fish and aromatic fennel creates a sophisticated flavour profile, while the sliced waxy potatoes add a satisfying texture to the broth. A finishing touch of fresh dill and a squeeze of bright lemon juice lifts the dish, making it feel wonderfully leadened and fresh.
As a dairy-free alternative to traditional creamy chowders, this recipe uses just a small amount of crème fraîche to add a velvet-like richness without being heavy. It is an excellent choice for a healthy midweek supper or a relaxed weekend lunch. Serve this nutritious one-pot dish in warmed shallow bowls with plenty of crusty bread on the side to soak up every drop of the fragrant, herb-flecked sauce.
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Ingredients for Fish Stew with Fennel and Baby Potatoes
60ml olive oil
230g small waxy potatoes (such as baby Yukon Gold), scrubbed, sliced 1/4" thick
1/2 medium fennel bulb, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
60ml dry white wine
60ml crème fraîche
675g skinless flounder or fluke fillet, cut into 2" pieces
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Lemon wedges (for serving)
How to make Fish Stew with Fennel and Baby Potatoes
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook potatoes, tossing occasionally, until beginning to soften, about 3 minutes.
Add fennel and garlic; season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until fennel is soft, about 2 minutes. Add wine, bring to a boil, and cook until almost completely evaporated, about 4 minutes. Add 475ml water to pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, 10–12 minutes. Stir in crème fraîche. Add flounder, cover pot, and reduce heat. Simmer until fish is cooked through, about 4 minutes.
Stir dill into stew; season with salt and pepper. Serve with lemon wedges.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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