Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

30 May, 2023

Deliciously Perfect: Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe - A Flavorful Delight from the Renowned Steakhouse

Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: American
Category: Main dish, Seafood
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 calories

About Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe

Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass is a mouthwatering dish that showcases the delicate and buttery flavors of this premium fish. The Chilean sea bass fillets are cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth.

To start, the sea bass fillets are seasoned with a touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish. Searing the fillets in a hot skillet with olive oil creates a beautiful golden brown crust on the skin, adding a delightful crispy texture and a hint of richness.

Once the fillets are seared, they are transferred to the oven to finish cooking. The oven-baking method ensures that the fish cooks evenly throughout, preserving its moisture and tenderness. This gentle cooking technique allows the sea bass to retain its delicate flavors and prevents it from becoming dry or overcooked.

While the fish is baking, a tantalizing garlic butter sauce is prepared to elevate the dish even further. Butter is melted in a saucepan, infusing it with its rich and creamy essence. Freshly minced garlic is added to the melted butter, releasing its aromatic and flavorful notes. A splash of lemon juice adds a refreshing tanginess that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish perfectly. Chopped fresh parsley brings a touch of herbaceousness and vibrant color to the sauce.

Once the Chilean sea bass is cooked to perfection, it is drizzled generously with the delectable garlic butter sauce.

The sauce seeps into the nooks and crannies of the fillets, enveloping them in a luxurious and flavorful embrace.

The combination of the tender sea bass and the velvety garlic butter sauce creates a harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

This dish is typically served hot, accompanied by lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice over the sea bass adds a burst of brightness and complements the richness of the fish.

The garnish of chopped parsley adds a final touch, not only enhancing the visual appeal but also providing a burst of freshness.

Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass is a true indulgence, showcasing the expertise of the renowned steakhouse in preparing seafood dishes with finesse. Its elegant presentation, delicate flavors, and buttery richness make it a standout choice for seafood lovers looking for a memorable dining experience.

Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe origin and background

The Chilean Sea Bass recipe associated with Ruth's Chris Steak House is a creation that showcases the culinary expertise and creativity of the restaurant's chefs.

While Ruth's Chris is renowned for its exceptional steaks, the restaurant also offers a selection of seafood dishes, including the Chilean Sea Bass.

The Chilean Sea Bass itself is not native to Chile but was given this name for marketing purposes. The fish is actually known as the Patagonian toothfish, and it is found in the southern waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s due to its delicate flavor and rich, buttery texture.

Ruth's Chris Steak House is a fine dining restaurant chain that originated in the United States. The first restaurant was opened in New Orleans by Ruth Fertel in 1965. Fertel purchased a local steakhouse called Chris Steak House, which she renamed Ruth's Chris Steak House after herself.

The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality steaks cooked in a signature style, featuring sizzling butter on a hot plate.

Over the years, Ruth's Chris Steak House has expanded its menu to include a variety of dishes, including seafood options such as the Chilean Sea Bass. While the exact origin or background of the specific Chilean Sea Bass recipe associated with Ruth's Chris is not publicly disclosed, it is likely a creation developed by their culinary team to highlight the flavors and characteristics of this popular fish.

The recipe aims to showcase the natural qualities of the Chilean Sea Bass while incorporating complementary flavors such as garlic, lemon, and butter to enhance the overall dining experience.

The combination of searing the fish and finishing it in the oven, along with the preparation of the garlic butter sauce, is a culinary technique commonly used to enhance the flavors and textures of seafood.

It's important to note that while the recipe is associated with Ruth's Chris Steak House, variations of Chilean Sea Bass recipes can be found at other restaurants and among home cooks as well. Chefs and culinary enthusiasts often put their own spin on recipes, adapting them to suit their tastes and incorporating their own creative touches.

Why try this Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe?

Premium and Delicate Fish: Chilean Sea Bass, also known as Patagonian toothfish, is a highly regarded fish known for its exquisite flavor and buttery texture. It is a premium seafood option that is sought after by seafood lovers for its unique qualities.
Restaurant-Quality Experience: Ruth's Chris Steak House is renowned for its exceptional culinary expertise and high-quality dishes. By trying their Chilean Sea Bass recipe, you can recreate a restaurant-quality dining experience right in your own home. It's a chance to enjoy a dish that has been refined and perfected by professional chefs.
Simplicity and Elegance: The recipe for Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass is relatively simple, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through. It showcases the beauty of minimalistic yet impactful preparation techniques, highlighting the delicate taste and texture of the sea bass.
Impressive Presentation: Serving Chilean Sea Bass can make for an impressive and visually appealing presentation. The golden-brown seared skin, the flaky white flesh, and the drizzle of garlic butter sauce create an inviting and elegant plate that will impress your family and guests.
Balanced Flavors: The flavors in this recipe are carefully balanced, combining the mild sweetness of the sea bass with the richness of butter, the tanginess of lemon, and the aromatic notes of garlic. The result is a harmonious combination of flavors that enhances the natural qualities of the fish.
Versatility: The Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe can be versatile and easily customized to suit your preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, add your choice of herbs or spices, or even incorporate additional ingredients to personalize the dish to your liking.
Culinary Exploration: Trying new recipes is a wonderful way to expand your culinary horizons and discover new flavors. By trying the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe, you can embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the unique characteristics of Chilean Sea Bass and the art of cooking seafood.

What does Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass taste like?

The taste of Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass can be described as delicate, rich, and buttery.

This particular fish has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other varieties. When cooked properly, the sea bass has a tender and moist texture that practically melts in your mouth.

The flavor profile of the Chilean Sea Bass is often described as mild and slightly sweet, with a hint of oceanic brininess. It has a clean and fresh taste that is not overly fishy or overpowering. The meat is succulent and flaky, allowing it to absorb and complement the flavors it is cooked with.

The searing and baking process employed in the recipe at Ruth's Chris Steak House creates a golden-brown crust on the outside of the fish, which adds a pleasant textural contrast. The crispy skin provides a subtle crunch while locking in the moisture and flavors of the sea bass.

The garlic butter sauce served with the Chilean Sea Bass adds another layer of richness and depth to the overall taste experience. The buttery sauce, infused with minced garlic and a touch of tangy lemon juice, enhances the natural flavors of the fish and provides a luscious, velvety finish.

When enjoying Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass, each bite offers a harmonious balance of delicate flavors, buttery richness, and a hint of tanginess. The dish is designed to highlight the inherent qualities of the sea bass, allowing it to shine while complementing it with subtle yet flavorful accompaniments.

Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass is celebrated for its elegant and refined taste, making it a sought-after choice for seafood enthusiasts seeking a luxurious dining experience.

What is in Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass?

Chilean Sea Bass Fillets: Chilean Sea Bass is a premium fish known for its delicate flavor and buttery texture. The recipe typically calls for four fillets, each weighing around 6-8 ounces.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the sea bass fillets and providing a golden-brown crust.
Salt and Pepper: These common seasonings are used to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
Butter: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish. It is melted to create the garlic butter sauce.
Garlic: Fresh cloves of garlic are minced and sautéed in butter to infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice adds a tangy and refreshing element to the dish, balancing the richness of the fish and butter.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is used as a garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness to the final presentation.
Lemon Wedges: Served on the side, lemon wedges are squeezed over the fish before eating to enhance the flavors and provide a bright acidity.

Equipment required for this recipe

Oven-Safe Skillet: An oven-safe skillet is used for searing the sea bass fillets on the stovetop and then transferring them to the oven for baking. If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can use a regular skillet for searing and then transfer the fillets to a baking dish for the oven portion.
Spatula: A spatula is needed for flipping the sea bass fillets when searing them in the skillet. If you don't have a spatula, you can use tongs or a fork to carefully flip the fillets.
Small Saucepan: A small saucepan is used to melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for the garlic butter sauce. If you don't have a saucepan, you can use a small pot or a frying pan as a substitute.
Cutting Board and Knife: A cutting board and a knife are needed for mincing the garlic and chopping the fresh parsley. Make sure your knife is sharp for precise cutting.
Oven: The sea bass fillets are baked in the oven to finish cooking. Ensure that your oven is preheated to the specified temperature in the recipe.

How to make Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a mouthwatering seafood experience.

Ingredients

4 Chilean sea bass fillets (6-8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rinse the Chilean sea bass fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season both sides of each fillet with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned sea bass fillets to the skillet, skin side down. Sear the fillets for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
While the fish is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
Once the sea bass is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the fillets, making sure to coat them evenly.
Serve the Chilean sea bass hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side. You can also sprinkle some additional chopped parsley over the top for added freshness. Enjoy!

How to serve Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass

Plate the Sea Bass: Start by carefully removing the baked Chilean Sea Bass fillets from the skillet or baking dish. Using a spatula or a fish lifter, gently transfer each fillet to individual serving plates.
Drizzle with Garlic Butter Sauce: Spoon the prepared garlic butter sauce over the top of each sea bass fillet, ensuring that the sauce is evenly distributed. The buttery sauce adds flavor and richness to the dish.
Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the sea bass fillets. This not only adds a pop of color to the plate but also enhances the presentation and freshness of the dish.
Serve with Lemon Wedges: Place a few lemon wedges on the side of each plate. These lemon wedges can be squeezed over the fish just before eating, providing a bright and citrusy flavor that complements the sea bass.
Accompaniments: Consider serving the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass with additional side dishes to complete the meal. Some suitable options include steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light salad. These sides can complement the flavors of the sea bass and add variety to the plate.
Enjoy! Serve the plated Chilean Sea Bass while it's still hot. The dish is best enjoyed immediately, allowing you to savor the delicate flavors, tender texture, and the harmonious combination of the sea bass, garlic butter sauce, and fresh lemon.

You should provide utensils such as forks and knives for easier eating. Encourage your guests to squeeze the lemon wedges over their sea bass fillets to customize the level of tanginess to their preference.

Now, you're ready to savor the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass and enjoy its exquisite flavors!

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 486 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass, Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass Recipe, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Ruth Chris Chilean Sea Bass with

Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and adds a slightly caramelized flavor. Season the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until tender and slightly crispy.
Lemon Herb Rice: Prepare a fragrant lemon herb rice as a side dish. Cook white or basmati rice according to the package instructions, and then add lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme. This light and citrusy rice will complement the flavors of the sea bass nicely.
Steamed or Sautéed Spinach: Serve the sea bass alongside a bed of steamed or sautéed spinach. This versatile leafy green pairs well with seafood and provides a nutritious and vibrant addition to the plate.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting and indulgent accompaniment to the Chilean Sea Bass. Choose your preferred variety of potatoes, boil or steam them until tender, and then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus spears make a delicious and elegant side dish. Toss the asparagus in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill them until they become tender and slightly charred. The smoky flavors of the grilled asparagus pair well with the sea bass.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad can provide a crisp and light element to balance the richness of the sea bass. Toss together a combination of fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.

Try to consider your personal preferences and dietary restrictions when choosing side dishes. Feel free to experiment and create your own combinations based on the flavors and textures you enjoy. The goal is to have a well-rounded meal that complements the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass while adding variety and satisfaction to your dining experience.

My recommendations and tips

Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the Chilean Sea Bass. Look for fillets that are fresh, firm, and have a mild aroma. Fresh ingredients will contribute to the overall taste and quality of the dish.
Proper Seasoning: Season the sea bass fillets with salt and pepper just before searing them. This will enhance the natural flavors of the fish and provide a balanced taste. Remember not to over-season, as the delicate flavors of the sea bass should still shine through.
Searing Technique: When searing the sea bass fillets, make sure the skillet is preheated over medium-high heat. This will help create a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the interior moist and tender. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
Garlic Butter Sauce: Take care when sautéing the minced garlic for the garlic butter sauce. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir frequently to prevent it from turning bitter. Once the garlic is lightly golden and aromatic, add the butter and let it melt gently.
Timing: Timing is crucial when baking the sea bass fillets in the oven. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking time in the recipe to avoid overcooking the fish, which can result in a dry texture. Keep a close eye on the fillets while they are in the oven to achieve the desired doneness.
Resting Period: Allow the sea bass fillets to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and ensure that the fish remains moist and tender. Resting also allows the flavors to meld together.
Presentation: Pay attention to the plating and presentation of the dish. Take care when transferring the sea bass fillets to the serving plates, ensuring they are handled delicately to maintain their integrity. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the fillets and garnish with fresh parsley for an appealing visual presentation.
Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavors to your liking.
Enjoy Fresh: The Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass is best enjoyed fresh and immediately after cooking. Serve it while it's still hot to fully appreciate the delicate flavors and textures. Avoid reheating leftovers, as the fish may become dry and lose its original tenderness.

By following these recommendations and tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable culinary experience with the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe. Embrace your creativity, savor the flavors, and have fun exploring the delicate and buttery goodness of this exceptional seafood dish.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Chilean Sea Bass: If you're unable to find Chilean Sea Bass, you can substitute it with other white fish options such as cod, halibut, or striped bass. These fish have a firm texture and mild flavor that can work well in this recipe.
Olive Oil: If you don't have olive oil, you can substitute it with other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Choose an oil with a neutral flavor that can withstand high heat.
Garlic: If fresh garlic is unavailable, you can use garlic powder or granulated garlic as a substitute. Use approximately 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic required in the recipe.
Butter: For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can substitute butter with a non-dairy margarine or a plant-based butter substitute. Ensure that the substitute you choose has a similar consistency and can provide a rich flavor.
Lemon Juice: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. However, fresh lemon juice will offer a brighter and more vibrant flavor. Adjust the quantity of bottled lemon juice to taste, as it may be more concentrated than fresh juice.

Additional information

Sustainability: When purchasing Chilean Sea Bass or any other fish, it's important to consider the sustainability and environmental impact. Look for seafood that is sustainably sourced and follows responsible fishing practices to help preserve marine ecosystems.
Cooking Time: The cooking time for the sea bass fillets may vary slightly depending on their thickness. It's essential to monitor the fish closely during baking to avoid overcooking. The fillets should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when done.
Serving Size: The recipe typically yields four servings, but you can adjust it according to your needs. If you are serving more or fewer people, you can easily scale the recipe up or down. Just ensure that the fillets are cooked evenly and adjust the quantities of other ingredients accordingly.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy pairing wine with your meals, Chilean Sea Bass pairs well with white wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the delicate flavors of the sea bass and add another layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.
Freshness: Seafood is at its best when it's fresh, so try to obtain the highest-quality ingredients available. If possible, purchase the sea bass fillets on the day you plan to cook them or from a trusted fishmonger. Fresh fish will have a mild aroma, firm texture, and vibrant color.
Adjusting Seasonings: Taste is subjective, so feel free to adjust the seasonings in the recipe to suit your preferences. If you like a bit more saltiness, you can add a pinch of sea salt. If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can increase the amount of minced garlic used in the butter sauce.
Recipe Variations: While the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe is delicious as is, you can also experiment with variations and add your own twist. Consider incorporating additional herbs such as thyme or basil, adding a splash of white wine to the butter sauce, or sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese over the fillets before baking for a crispy topping.

If you have any specific questions or concerns about the recipe or cooking techniques, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Happy cooking!

Final Remark

Treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dish with the Ruth's Chris Chilean Sea Bass recipe. Impress your guests or indulge in a flavorful meal at home. Happy cooking!