Creamy and Irresistible Fish Pie Recipe

Introduction

Indulge in the comfort of a hearty fish pie, a classic British dish that combines flaky fish, creamy sauce, and buttery mashed potatoes. This savory creation is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a warm embrace on a chilly evening. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the steps to create a fish pie that's not only comforting but also a showstopper on any dining table.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

1 lb (450g) mixed white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or pollock), skinless and boneless, cut into chunks

1/2 lb (225g) smoked haddock, skinless and boneless, cut into chunks

1/2 lb (225g) salmon fillet, skinless and boneless, cut into chunks

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen peas

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Salt and black pepper to taste

A pinch of grated nutmeg (optional)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup whole milk

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Filling:

Poach the Fish: 

Place the mixed white fish fillets, smoked haddock, and salmon in a large saucepan. Pour in the whole milk and add a pinch of grated nutmeg if desired. Gently heat the milk until it's just about to simmer, then remove from the heat. Let the fish steep in the warm milk for 5-10 minutes until they start to become opaque. This will infuse them with flavor. Afterward, strain the fish, reserving the milk.

Make the Creamy Sauce: 

In a separate saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the all-purpose flour to make a roux, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add the reserved milk (from poaching the fish) and the heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

Combine and Add Peas and Parsley: 

Add the poached fish chunks, frozen peas, and chopped fresh parsley to the creamy sauce. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the peas are heated through. Remove from heat.

Making the Mashed Potato Topping:

Boil and Mash the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with the 4 tablespoons of butter and 1/4 cup of whole milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assembling and Baking:

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Layer the Pie: Transfer the creamy fish mixture into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, creating a smooth surface. You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the mashed potatoes if desired.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Serve: Remove the fish pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if you like. Serve your classic fish pie hot and enjoy!

This classic fish pie is a true comfort food delight. Its creamy, savory filling and buttery mashed potato topping are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a winner. Enjoy your homemade fish pie!