How to Make Soft Fish Pie – Easy Steps to a Delicious and Flaky Dish

The allure of comfort food is universal, and there’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish that combines the tenderness of perfectly cooked fish with the creamy, soothing embrace of a golden pie. On Little Foodie, we cherish these moments of culinary contentment, and it’s with a sense of homely nostalgia that I share with you the recipe for a Soft Fish Pie that promises to wrap your taste buds in a blanket of cozy flavors.

Whether you’re gathering the family for a weeknight dinner or seeking a touch of culinary nostalgia, this Soft Fish Pie is more than just food—it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a nod to the maritime traditions of coastal kitchens, and a celebration of the understated elegance that can be found in the simplest of dishes. Join me on this flavorful journey at Little Foodie, where we savor the stories and sentiments behind every recipe we share.

Soft Fish Pie

Make a roux with butter and flour, add milk. Cook fish, peas, sweetcorn, and parsley. Fork fish into pieces, transfer to dish. Top with mash and cheese. Bake for 15 minutes. A comforting and creamy fish pie ready to be enjoyed.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Britain

Servings 4 servings

Calories 178 kcal

Equipment

• oven
• 2 pans

Ingredients

  

• 1 tsp parsley
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 fillet salmon no skin
• 1 fillet cod
• 20 g frozen peas
• 20 g frozen sweetcorn
• 20 g unsalted butter
• 30 g cheddar cheese
• 150 ml whole milk
• 200 g sweet potatoes
• 200 g white potatoes

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 180oC/350oF/Gas 4. Peel and slice the potatoes. Add these to a pan of boiling water, turn to low heat and cook for 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes, add half of the unsalted butter and mash until smooth.
  
• In another pan add the other half of the butter and melt. Add the flour and after no more than 30 seconds pour in the milk. Bring to the boil, lower the heat and add the salmon, cod, peas, sweetcorn and parsley. Cook for 8-10 minutes.
  
• Lightly fork the cooked fish into smaller pieces and transfer into an oven-proof dish. Top with mash and a sprinkle of cheese. Cook in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
  

Video

Notes

This is a lovely, soft recipe for teething babies with tender gums.

Keyword Fish

Alternative Methods

Exploring alternative methods for preparing a Soft Fish Pie can be a delightful journey, one that allows for personal expression and creativity in the kitchen. While the traditional approach has its charm, experimenting with variations can lead to new discoveries and perhaps even a new favorite way to enjoy this beloved dish.

One such alternative method involves deconstructing the classic pie format. Instead of layering the ingredients, consider serving the creamy fish mixture alongside a separate mound of herbed mashed potatoes. This ‘deconstructed’ presentation allows diners to experience the components individually, appreciating the distinct flavors and textures before combining them on their own plates.

Another variation is to use a different topping altogether. For those who might prefer a lighter touch, a crumble made from breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese offers a delightful crunch. This topping bakes up to a golden brown, providing a satisfying textural contrast to the soft fish beneath.

Cooking Tips

The art of crafting the perfect Soft Fish Pie is akin to a gentle dance in the kitchen—a series of thoughtful steps and graceful movements that culminate in a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. As we embark on this culinary adventure, let’s embrace the subtleties and nuances that make this dish a beloved classic.

One of the most crucial elements in creating a Soft Fish Pie that truly resonates with the heart is selecting the right type of fish. Opt for varieties that are tender and flake beautifully under the fork, such as cod, haddock, or salmon. These fish not only provide a delicate texture but also carry the flavors of the pie without overwhelming the palate.

When preparing your fish, consider poaching it gently in milk infused with bay leaves, peppercorns, and a slice of onion. This method not only cooks the fish to tender perfection but also imparts a depth of flavor that will weave through your pie, creating a tapestry of taste that is both subtle and profound.

The sauce, velvety and rich, should be a loving embrace for the fish. A simple roux, whisked patiently until smooth, then thinned with the poaching milk, creates a creamy base that binds the ingredients together. A whisper of cheese can be added for a hint of sharpness, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley will bring a burst of freshness that complements the fish wonderfully.

As for the topping, mashed potatoes must be cloud-like—light and fluffy, with a touch of butter for richness and a dash of cream for luxury. Piping or spooning the mash over the fish mixture allows for peaks and troughs that will brown delectably under the broiler, offering a contrast in textures from the crisp surface to the soft, yielding layers beneath.

The Best Way to Serve Soft Fish Pie

Serving a Soft Fish Pie is an invitation to gather, to pause, and to relish in the company of loved ones. It’s a dish that doesn’t just feed the body but also nourishes the soul with its heartening warmth. When it comes time to present this homely masterpiece, consider the setting and accompaniments that will enhance the experience and honor the care that has gone into its preparation.

Imagine placing the pie at the center of the table, its golden crust radiating a welcoming glow that beckons your guests to draw nearer. The steam rising from the pie as you break through the mashed potato topping is like a gentle sigh of contentment, promising comfort in every bite.

Pairing the pie with a side of vibrant, steamed vegetables such as tender green beans, buttery peas, or baby carrots adds not only a splash of color to the plate but also a crisp textural contrast to the softness of the pie. These simple, unadorned vegetables allow the flavors of the fish pie to shine while contributing their own subtle sweetness and earthiness to the meal.

For those who appreciate a touch of acidity to balance the richness, a light salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette can be a refreshing companion to the pie. The sharpness of the dressing cuts through the creaminess, invigorating the palate and preparing it for the next comforting forkful.

As you serve the pie, encourage your guests to take a moment to savor the aroma, to appreciate the blend of flavors, and to share their thoughts and stories. This is food that inspires conversation and connection, turning a simple meal into a cherished memory.

In the end, the way you choose to serve your Soft Fish Pie should reflect the atmosphere you wish to create—be it casual and convivial or serene and intimate. Let the pie be a canvas for your personal touches, whether that’s a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top or a special side dish that holds meaning for you and your guests.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Soft Fish Pie that cover various aspects of preparation, serving, and customization:

• What types of fish are best for a Soft Fish Pie? Tender and flaky fish varieties such as cod, haddock, or salmon are ideal for a Soft Fish Pie. They provide a delicate texture and a flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
• Can I use frozen fish for this recipe? Yes, frozen fish can be used for convenience. Ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from making the pie soggy.
• How can I prevent my fish pie from being too watery? To avoid a watery pie, make sure any poached fish is well-drained and the sauce is thickened properly before assembling. Also, avoid overcooking the vegetables, as they can release water into the pie.
• What can I do to add more flavor to my Soft Fish Pie? Infuse your poaching milk with aromatics like bay leaves, peppercorns, and onion. Consider adding a touch of mustard, cheese, or fresh herbs to the sauce for additional layers of flavor.
• Is it possible to make a dairy-free version of Soft Fish Pie? Absolutely. Use dairy-free milk alternatives and vegan butter for the sauce, and top with a dairy-free mashed potato or a crumble topping that suits your dietary needs.
• Can I prepare Soft Fish Pie in advance? Yes, you can assemble the pie and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

In conclusion, the Soft Fish Pie stands as a testament to the versatility and comfort that home cooking can offer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious novice in the kitchen, this dish provides ample opportunity for personalization and creativity. From the selection of fish to the choice of toppings and sides, each element invites you to leave your own culinary signature.

At Little Foodie, we believe that every meal is a chance to create memories and foster connections. The Soft Fish Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s a canvas for expression, a reason to gather, and a way to share love through the universal language of food. We encourage you to embrace the process, to play with the possibilities, and to find joy in every layer of flavor.