Today we are going to talk about one of the classic dishes of British cuisine: fish pie. This savory dish is a favorite in many households and is perfect for a cozy family dinner. We will explore what ingredients make up a traditional fish pie, different variations you can try, and some tips for making the perfect fish pie at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, stick around to learn all about cooking fish pie!
Contents
The History of Fish Pie
Fish pie is a quintessential comfort food that has been around for centuries. It was originally created as a way of using up any leftover fish and vegetables, making it a frugal and practical dish. The first recorded recipe for fish pie dates back to the 16th century, and it has been a popular dish ever since. Today, fish pie is enjoyed all over the world in various forms and with different types of fish.
The Evolution of Fish Pie
Over time, fish pie has evolved to include a wide range of ingredients. In the past, it was typically made with a simple fish and potato filling, but today, it can include anything from prawns and scallops to leeks and spinach. Some variations even include a cheese or breadcrumb topping for added texture and flavor.
The Health Benefits of Fish Pie
Fish pie is not only delicious, but it is also a healthy dish. Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health. Additionally, the vegetables and potatoes used in fish pie provide important vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal.
How to Make a Classic Fish Pie
Making a fish pie from scratch may seem daunting, but it is actually quite simple. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a classic fish pie:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
- Peel and chop 1kg of potatoes and boil them until they are soft.
- While the potatoes are boiling, poach 500g of fish in milk until it is cooked through.
- Remove the fish from the milk and set it aside, then strain the milk and reserve it for later.
- Melt 50g of butter in a saucepan, then add 50g of flour and stir until it forms a paste.
- Gradually add the reserved milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add the fish, 200g of cooked prawns, 100g of cooked peas, and 100g of cooked sweetcorn to the saucepan and stir gently.
- Pour the mixture into a large baking dish.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with 25g of butter and 100ml of milk.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the fish mixture, then sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Variations on the Classic Fish Pie
While the classic fish pie is delicious, there are many ways to vary the recipe to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:
- Use different types of fish, such as salmon or cod.
- Add vegetables like leeks, spinach, or carrots to the filling.
- Top the pie with breadcrumbs instead of mashed potatoes.
- Add cheese to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving and Storing Fish Pie
Fish pie is a great dish to serve for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. It can be served hot out of the oven with a side salad or some crusty bread. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips for Reheating Fish Pie
To reheat fish pie, place it in the oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave for 3-4 minutes, but be careful not to overcook it.
Serving Suggestions
Fish pie is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- A glass of white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.
FAQs for What’s Cooking Fish Pie
What is What’s Cooking Fish Pie?
What’s Cooking Fish Pie is a popular dish that combines fish, vegetables, and mashed potatoes in a casserole dish. The dish can be made with a variety of fish, such as salmon, cod or haddock, along with peas, carrots, celery, and onions. The ingredients are cooked together before being placed in a casserole dish and topped with a layer of mashed potatoes, which is then baked in the oven.
How do I make What’s Cooking Fish Pie?
To make What’s Cooking Fish Pie, you will need fresh or frozen fish, mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes, butter, milk, and seasoning. Start by poaching the fish in water or milk and breaking it up into bite-size pieces. In a separate pan, cook the mixed vegetables until they are tender. Once the vegetables and fish are cooked, combine them in a casserole dish and season with salt and pepper. Top the mixture with mashed potatoes and dot with butter. Bake the dish in the oven until the potato topping is golden brown.
What are some variations of What’s Cooking Fish Pie?
While the traditional version of What’s Cooking Fish Pie includes fish, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, there are many variations of this dish. For example, some people like to add cheese to the mashed potato topping or use a combination of different types of fish. Other variations include adding hard-boiled eggs, mushrooms, or bacon to the mixture before topping with mashed potatoes.
Can I use frozen fish for What’s Cooking Fish Pie?
Yes, you can use frozen fish for What’s Cooking Fish Pie. The fish should be fully defrosted before adding it to the mixture. You can defrost the fish by leaving it in the fridge overnight or defrosting it in the microwave using the defrost setting. If using frozen fish, be sure to check that it is cooked through before serving.
What can I serve with What’s Cooking Fish Pie?
What’s Cooking Fish Pie is a hearty meal in itself, but can be served with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables. Some people also like to serve the dish with a side of tartar sauce or ketchup for added flavor.
