Table of Contents
British fish pie is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender fish with a creamy sauce, topped with a rich, buttery crust. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, mastering this recipe can bring a taste of Britain to your table.
Ingredients Needed
- 500g mixed white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock)
- 200g cooked shrimp or prawns
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 300ml milk
- 50g butter
- 50g plain flour
- 150ml double cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet of puff pastry or mashed potatoes for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Preparing the Fish Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the fish fillets to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the fish is opaque and flaky. Carefully remove the fish and set aside, reserving the cooking liquid.
In a separate small bowl, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking liquid to make a smooth paste. Return this to the pan, stirring constantly to thicken the sauce. Add the double cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
Gently flake the cooked fish into the sauce, then fold in the cooked prawns. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
Adding the Creamy Topping
If using puff pastry, roll it out to fit over the baking dish and place it on top, pressing down the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape. Alternatively, you can top the fish mixture with a layer of mashed potatoes for a different texture.
For the rich creamy topping, brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Let the fish pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This classic British dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Enjoy your homemade fish pie with a creamy topping that’s perfect for any occasion!