Fish Pie.

Wholesome Comfort: The Ultimate Fish Pie Recipe to Satisfy Your Cravings

Fish pie is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly. Its creamy filling combined with fluffy potato topping makes it a beloved dish across many households. Imagine the rich, smoky flavor of haddock mingling with the fresh crunch of leeks, creating a delightful mix of tastes that adds excitement to your dining experience. Whether you are cooking for a family gathering or treating yourself, this fish pie recipe is set to become a cherished favorite.

Let's get ready to create this delightful fish pie, using wholesome ingredients that promise both flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

To prepare this scrumptious fish pie, gather the following:

1 kg potatoes
50 g butter (for mashing)
100 g crème fraîche
3 tbsp milk
Salt & pepper
500 ml milk (for poaching)
250 g smoked haddock
200 g cod loin
1 onion
1 bay leaf
3 cloves
2 leeks
50 g butter (for sautéing)
1 tbsp oil
3 tbsp plain flour
100 g raw king prawns
50 g peas
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 lemon zest

These ingredients not only come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, but they also provide a healthy dose of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the fish and veggies.

Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into equal chunks. Place the chunks in a large pot filled with salted water, bringing it to a boil. Cook for around 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. After draining, return the potatoes to the pot.

Add 50 g of butter, 100 g of crème fraîche, and 3 tbsp of milk to the drained potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mash them until they are smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps. Set this creamy mixture aside as it will be the delightful topping for your fish pie.

Fishing for Flavor

For the fish filling, take a saucepan and combine 500 ml of milk, 250 g of smoked haddock, and 200 g of cod loin. Add 1 bay leaf and 3 cloves to the mixture. Heat gently until it simmers, then allow the fish to poach for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.

Once cooked, remove the fish and let it cool slightly. Strain the milk, discarding the bay leaf and cloves. This milk, rich in flavor, will later be transformed into a creamy sauce.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat 1 tbsp of oil and 50 g of butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the 1 onion, finely chopped, and sauté until it turns translucent. Next, introduce 2 leeks, sliced thinly, and cook until soft. This ensures the pie is infused with aromatic flavors.

When the vegetables are tender, add 3 tbsp of plain flour, stirring continuously for 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the strained fish milk, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens. Now, stir in the 100 g of raw king prawns and 50 g of peas, warming them through in the rich sauce. Finally, gently fold the flaked fish into the mixture, adding 1 tbsp of chopped parsley and the zest of 1 lemon for a refreshing kick.

Assembling the Pie

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Time to assemble your fish pie! In a large oven-safe dish, pour the fish and vegetable mixture, spreading it evenly.

Carefully spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a textured surface, which promotes a lovely crispy top during baking.

Baking

Place the fish pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma, signaling that a cozy meal is just around the corner.

Serving Suggestions

Once your fish pie emerges, golden and bubbling from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish stands alone beautifully, but you might consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to boost your meal's nutritional value.

Close-up view of a golden brown fish pie topped with creamy potato mash — Golden-brown fish pie with creamy mashed potato topping, packed with salmon, and peas, served fresh from the oven.

Enjoy Your Delicious Creation

Fish pie is more than just a meal; it's a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Bursting with seafood flavor and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe satisfies every palate. So gather your ingredients and step into a world of comfort with this ultimate fish pie recipe.

The next time you crave something hearty and comforting, remember this dish requires minimal effort and delivers big on taste. Enjoy every mouthful of your homemade fish pie, and don't hesitate to make it your own with variations and additions. Happy cooking!