What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this guide will walk you through the steps for creating a truly satisfying fish pie.
- You can add a knob of butter and a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are heated through.
Looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than a classic fish pie! This recipe takes advantage of the convenience of a parsley sauce mix, making it a breeze to prepare while still delivering incredible taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this guide will walk you through the steps for creating a truly satisfying fish pie.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you embark on your culinary journey, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- Fish: Choose your favorite white fish, such as cod, haddock, or basa. You’ll need about 1 lb of fish, filleted and skinned.
- Parsley Sauce Mix: This is the star of the show, providing a rich and flavorful base for your pie.
- Milk: You’ll need about 1 cup of milk for the sauce.
- Butter: A tablespoon of butter will add richness and depth of flavor.
- Flour: A tablespoon of flour is used to thicken the sauce.
- Potatoes: You’ll need about 1 lb of potatoes, peeled and cubed.
- Onion: One medium-sized onion, chopped.
- Garlic: A clove of garlic, minced.
- Frozen Peas: A cup of frozen peas adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Cheese: Grated cheddar cheese is the perfect topping for this pie.
Preparing the Fish
Start by prepping your fish. Rinse the fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If you’re using frozen fish, thaw it completely before proceeding. Season the fish generously with salt and pepper.
Creating the Creamy Parsley Sauce
Now, let’s create the heart of your fish pie: the creamy parsley sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute, ensuring it forms a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the parsley sauce mix and stir until it’s fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Building the Pie Base
While the sauce is simmering, prepare the potato base. Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a fork or potato masher. You can add a knob of butter and a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
Assembling the Fish Pie
Now, it’s time to layer the flavors. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased ovenproof dish, spread the mashed potatoes evenly at the bottom. Arrange the fish fillets over the potato layer. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the fish. Next, pour the creamy parsley sauce over the fish and vegetables. Top with the frozen peas.
Finishing Touches
To complete your masterpiece, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously over the entire pie. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly and the potatoes are heated through.
A Feast for the Senses
Once your fish pie is baked to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve the pie hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of vibrant color.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use any firm, white fish that you enjoy. Salmon, halibut, or even a combination of different fish would work well.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pie and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I substitute the parsley sauce mix with homemade sauce?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own parsley sauce, you can simply whisk together melted butter, flour, milk, fresh parsley, and seasonings.
Q: What are some other toppings I can use for the fish pie?
A: You can get creative with your toppings! Some delicious alternatives include breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika.
A Culinary Triumph
This fish pie is a true delight, offering a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and delicate flavors. The ease of using a parsley sauce mix makes it a quick and simple meal to prepare, yet it still delivers a restaurant-quality taste. It’s a dish that will impress your family and friends, leaving everyone wanting more. So, dive into deliciousness and enjoy this comforting and satisfying fish pie!
