What To Know
- Fish pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
- The key to using frozen fish in your fish pie is to ensure it’s thawed properly before using it.
- You can also thaw frozen fish in a bowl of cold water, but be sure to change the water every 30 minutes to prevent bacterial growth.
Fish pie is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in. But what if you don’t have fresh fish on hand? Don’t worry, you can still make a delicious fish pie using frozen fish! This blog post will guide you through the process of making a flavorful and satisfying fish pie using frozen ingredients.
The Power of Frozen Fish
Frozen fish is a convenient and affordable option for making fish pie. It’s readily available at most grocery stores, and it can be stored for longer than fresh fish. The key to using frozen fish in your fish pie is to ensure it’s thawed properly before using it.
Choosing the Right Frozen Fish
The type of frozen fish you choose will depend on your personal preference. Some popular options for fish pie include:
- Cod: A mild-flavored fish that’s perfect for a classic fish pie.
- Haddock: Another white fish with a slightly firmer texture than cod.
- Salmon: A rich and flavorful fish that adds a luxurious touch to your pie.
- Smoked Haddock: Adds a smoky depth of flavor to the fish pie.
- Mixed Fish: This is a great option if you prefer a variety of flavors in your pie.
Thawing Your Frozen Fish
The best way to thaw frozen fish is in the refrigerator overnight. It’s important to give the fish plenty of time to thaw slowly and evenly. You can also thaw frozen fish in a bowl of cold water, but be sure to change the water every 30 minutes to prevent bacterial growth.
Preparing the Fish
Once your fish is thawed, it’s time to prepare it for the pie. You can use the fish as is, or you can flake it into smaller pieces. If you’re using a whole fish, remove the head, tail, and bones.
The Creamy Fish Filling
The heart of any good fish pie lies in its creamy fish filling. Here’s a basic recipe that you can adapt to your liking:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thawed frozen fish, flaked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the flaked fish, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, or until the fish is heated through.
The Perfect Potato Topping
The potato topping is what makes fish pie so satisfying. Here’s how to make a classic mashed potato topping:
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash them with the milk and butter.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling and Baking Your Fish Pie
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Pour the fish filling into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the fish filling.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving and Enjoying Your Fish Pie
Let the fish pie rest for a few minutes before serving. It’s delicious served with a side of green beans, peas, or a simple salad.
Fish Pie Variations
Once you have the basic fish pie recipe down, you can get creative with variations. Here are some ideas:
- Add cheese: Stir in some grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the fish filling for a richer flavor.
- Use different vegetables: Add carrots, peas, or spinach to the fish filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Try a different sauce: Experiment with a creamy white wine sauce or a lemon butter sauce.
- Top with breadcrumbs: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mashed potato before baking.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Making fish pie with frozen fish allows you to enjoy this classic dish without needing fresh ingredients. With a little creativity and some simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I freeze leftover fish pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover fish pie for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Q: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: You can use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth.
Q: Can I use frozen mashed potatoes instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use frozen mashed potatoes. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using them.
Q: What are some other good toppings for fish pie?
A: You can also use a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated cheese, or a puff pastry crust for a more decadent topping.
Q: How can I make sure my fish pie is cooked through?
A: Make sure the potato topping is golden brown and bubbly, and the fish is cooked through and flaky. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, which should be at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
