Deliciously Easy Fish Pie Recipe: A Seafood Lover's Delight!

Fish pie is a classic dish that combines flaky fish, creamy sauce, and a golden crust for a comforting and satisfying meal. This beloved recipe has been enjoyed for generations in many coastal regions around the world. It is a versatile dish that can be customized with various types of seafood, herbs, and seasonings to suit individual tastes. Whether served as a cozy family dinner or as an elegant centerpiece for a special occasion, fish pie never fails to impress with its delicious flavors and hearty appeal. Join us on this culinary journey as we explore the steps to create a mouthwatering fish pie that will delight seafood lovers everywhere.

Ingredients required for making Fish Pie

1. 500g white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock)

2. 200g smoked haddock

3. 200g cooked and peeled prawns

4. 1 onion, finely chopped

5. 2 cloves of garlic, minced

6. 50g butter

7. 50g all-purpose flour

8. 400ml milk

9. Handful of fresh parsley, chopped

10. Salt and pepper to taste

11. Pinch of nutmeg

12. Juice of half a lemon

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and creamy filling for the fish pie that will delight seafood lovers with every bite!

Steps to prepare the Fish Pie filling

To prepare the delicious filling for your Fish Pie, start by sautéing diced onions in a pan with butter until they turn translucent. Add in chopped carrots and celery, cooking until they soften. Next, stir in flour to create a roux that will thicken the filling. Gradually pour in fish stock while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly. Then, add chunks of white fish (such as cod or haddock), peeled shrimp, and cooked peas to the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. Cook the filling gently until the seafood is just cooked through, being careful not to overcook it. This flavorful seafood medley will be the heart of your scrumptious Fish Pie!

Instructions for making the pie crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of cold butter cut into small cubes.

2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Slowly add 4-6 tablespoons of ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together.

4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest and firm up.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before rolling out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

6. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides and bottom.

7. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges with a sharp knife and crimp or decorate as desired before filling with the prepared fish pie mixture.

Assembling the Fish Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Spoon the prepared fish filling into the greased dish, spreading it out evenly.

3. Place the rolled-out pie crust over the top of the filling, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

4. Press down on the edges of the crust to seal it to the dish.

5. Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits in the crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

6. Brush the top of the pie crust with an egg wash for a golden finish.

7. Optional: sprinkle some grated cheese or breadcrumbs on top for added texture and flavor.

8. Place the assembled Fish Pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.

9. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving hot. Enjoy this deliciously easy Fish Pie with your favorite side dishes!

Baking the Fish Pie

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Once the fish pie is assembled, place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so use a toothpick to ensure that the crust is fully cooked through. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The aroma of the freshly baked fish pie will tantalize your taste buds, making it hard to resist diving in right away!

Serving suggestions and additional tips

Serving suggestions: Once the fish pie is baked to golden perfection, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli and carrots. For a heartier meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread. To elevate the flavor profile, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or dill on top before serving.

Additional tips: To save time, you can prepare the filling and pie crust in advance and assemble the fish pie just before baking. For added richness, consider incorporating a handful of grated cheese into the filling mixture. Experiment with different types of seafood such as prawns or smoked salmon to create your own unique twist on this classic dish. Remember to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences and enjoy this comforting seafood delight with family and friends!