What To Know
- This is because the starch in the potatoes can break down when frozen, resulting in a watery and mushy texture when reheated.
- Scoop the mashed potato off the top of the fish pie and place it in a separate container.
- Add a scoop of fish pie to a sandwich or wrap for a quick and easy lunch.
Fish pie is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. But what if you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later? Can you freeze fish pie with mashed potato? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know to ensure it freezes well and tastes great when reheated.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Freezing Fish Pie
Freezing fish pie is a great way to save time and money. However, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to ensure it freezes well and tastes delicious when reheated.
Do’s:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will ensure your fish pie tastes its best, even after freezing.
- Cook the fish pie thoroughly before freezing. This will help to prevent bacteria from growing.
- Cool the fish pie completely before freezing. This will help to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture.
- Wrap the fish pie tightly in cling film or foil. This will help to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the fish pie with the date. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
Don’ts:
- Don’t freeze the fish pie for longer than 3 months. After this time, the quality of the fish pie may start to deteriorate.
- Don’t freeze the fish pie in a container that’s too large. This will make it difficult to reheat evenly.
- Don’t freeze the fish pie with a lot of sauce on top. This can make the sauce watery when reheated.
Why Does Freezing Affect Mashed Potato?
Mashed potato is a common topping for fish pie, but it can be tricky to freeze. This is because the starch in the potatoes can break down when frozen, resulting in a watery and mushy texture when reheated.
How to Freeze Fish Pie with Mashed Potato: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to freeze fish pie with mashed potato, ensuring the best possible results:
1. Prepare the Fish Pie: Follow your favorite fish pie recipe, ensuring the filling is cooked thoroughly.
2. Cool Completely: Let the fish pie cool to room temperature before proceeding.
3. Separate the Mashed Potato: Scoop the mashed potato off the top of the fish pie and place it in a separate container.
4. Freeze the Filling: Wrap the fish pie tightly in cling film or foil, ensuring a good seal. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
5. Freeze the Mashed Potato: Place the mashed potato in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
6. Label and Freeze: Label both containers with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Your Frozen Fish Pie
1. Thaw: Thaw the fish pie in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Reheat the Filling: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the fish pie in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Reheat the Mashed Potato: While the fish pie is reheating, transfer the frozen mashed potato to a saucepan. Add a splash of milk or cream and gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently, until warm and smooth.
4. Assemble and Enjoy: Once the fish pie is heated through, top with the reheated mashed potato. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a good quality mashed potato. For the best results, use a mashed potato that’s made with real butter and milk.
- Don’t overfill the container. Leave some space at the top of the container for the mashed potato to expand when frozen.
- Reheat slowly and gently. This will help to prevent the mashed potato from becoming watery.
Beyond Freezing: Other Ways to Enjoy Leftover Fish Pie
Freezing isn’t the only way to enjoy leftover fish pie. Here are some other ideas:
- Serve it cold: Fish pie can be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for a picnic or lunch.
- Turn it into a salad: Add chunks of leftover fish pie to a salad for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps: Add a scoop of fish pie to a sandwich or wrap for a quick and easy lunch.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Delicious Leftovers
Freezing fish pie with mashed potato can be a delicious and convenient way to save time and enjoy this comforting dish later. By following these simple steps and tips, you can ensure your fish pie freezes well and tastes great when reheated. So go ahead, indulge in a big batch and enjoy the delicious leftovers for days to come!
Popular Questions
1. Can I freeze fish pie with a pastry topping?
While you can freeze fish pie with a pastry topping, it’s not recommended. The pastry can become soggy and tough when reheated. It’s best to freeze the fish pie without the pastry and add it before baking.
2. Can I freeze fish pie with a cheese sauce on top?
It’s best to avoid freezing fish pie with a cheese sauce on top. The cheese sauce can separate and become watery when reheated.
3. How long can I keep frozen fish pie?
For best quality, it’s recommended to freeze fish pie for no longer than 3 months.
4. Can I freeze fish pie with different types of fish?
Yes, you can freeze fish pie with different types of fish. Just make sure the fish is cooked thoroughly before freezing.
5. Can I reheat frozen fish pie in the microwave?
While you can reheat frozen fish pie in the microwave, it’s not recommended. The microwave can make the mashed potato watery and the filling unevenly heated. It’s best to reheat in the oven for the best results.
