Fish pie is a beloved dish that combines the richness of seafood with the comforting texture of creamy sauce and flaky pastry. What makes this recipe even better is that you can use frozen fish, making it a convenient option for any busy weeknight dinner! This ultimate fish pie recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delicious and satisfying. Below, you'll find a comprehensive guide, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dish. 🍽️
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Ingredients 🥘
To make the ultimate fish pie, you’ll need the following ingredients. Feel free to customize based on your preference!
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Frozen white fish fillets (e.g., cod, haddock)</td> <td>300g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Frozen salmon fillets</td> <td>200g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Frozen prawns</td> <td>150g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Potatoes</td> <td>600g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Onion</td> <td>1 medium, chopped</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic</td> <td>2 cloves, minced</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Butter</td> <td>50g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Flour</td> <td>50g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Milk</td> <td>400ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Dijon mustard</td> <td>1 tbsp</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh parsley</td> <td>2 tbsp, chopped</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt & pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Shortcrust pastry</td> <td>Ready-made, enough for a 9-inch pie</td> </tr> </table>
Important Note: You can substitute the types of fish or seafood depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure the fish is well-thawed and drained before use!
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Instructions 🥄
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. Once cooked, drain and mash them, mixing in a bit of butter and milk to achieve a creamy texture. Set aside.
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Step 2: Cook the Fish Filling
While the potatoes are cooking, it’s time to prepare the fish filling. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir for another minute. Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Once thickened, add in the frozen white fish fillets, salmon, and prawns. Season with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Lastly, stir in the chopped parsley.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Fish+Filling" alt="Fish Filling" /> </div>
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a floured surface until it’s about 0.5cm thick. Line a 9-inch pie dish with half of the pastry, ensuring the sides are covered.
Pour the fish filling into the pastry-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, smoothing it out with a spatula. Use a fork to create patterns or peaks on the top of the mashed potatoes for a beautiful finish.
Cover the pie with the remaining pastry, crimping the edges to seal. Make a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with a little milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Assembling+the+Fish+Pie" alt="Assembling Fish Pie" /> </div>
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Bake your assembled fish pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. The filling should be bubbling at the edges.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Baking+Fish+Pie" alt="Baking Fish Pie" /> </div>
Serving Suggestions 🍴
Serve your ultimate fish pie with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also consider these additional serving ideas:
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon over your pie for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Tartare Sauce: A dollop of tartare sauce complements the fish beautifully.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy your meal with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. 🍷
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Tips for the Perfect Fish Pie 🔑
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Choosing the Fish: For a variety of flavors, mix different types of fish and seafood. Always use quality, sustainably sourced frozen fish.
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Perfecting the Mash: Add butter, milk, or cream to the mashed potatoes for richness. You can also incorporate cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
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Pastry Choice: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own pastry from scratch for a homemade touch.
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Storage: Leftover fish pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for later. Just reheat until fully heated through.
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Vegetable Addition: Feel free to sneak in some peas or sweetcorn for extra nutrition and color! 🌽
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Fish+Pie+Slice" alt="Fish Pie Slice" /> </div>
With this ultimate fish pie recipe using frozen fish, you can create a meal that is not only delicious but also convenient for any occasion. Whether it's a weekday dinner or a special gathering, this comforting dish is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking! 🐟🍽️