Curried Fish Pie is a delightful culinary creation that will bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This dish takes the traditional concept of a fish pie and adds an intriguing twist with the incorporation of a rich curry sauce. The combination of tender seafood, creamy mashed potatoes, and the aromatic spices creates a meal that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those cozy nights at home or for impressing guests at dinner parties.
What makes this Curried Fish Pie truly special is its versatility. You have the freedom to use your preferred types of fish, whether it’s mild white fish like cod or haddock, or even a selection of shellfish. The mild curry powder and turmeric add a gentle warmth, making it suitable for a family meal without overwhelming the kids or guests who may be less fond of spicy food. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary requirements while ensuring everyone can enjoy the rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Curried Fish Pie
- Flavorful Fusion: The creamy curry sauce infuses the fish with a rich taste, making every bite a delight.
- Comfort Food: This dish is perfect for those cold evenings when you crave something warm and filling.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Customizable: You can alter the seafood selection based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the fish and nutrients from vegetables, it’s a healthy choice!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin your cooking journey, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. This will not only streamline the cooking process but also ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Start by gathering the ingredients listed above. Measure out your spices beforehand to avoid scrambling while cooking. You will need a large pot for boiling potatoes, a saucepan for making the curry sauce, a baking dish for the final pie assembly, and a mixing bowl for mashing the potatoes. Make sure to have a sturdy knife for chopping, a cutting board, and a whisk for ensuring your sauce is lump-free. If you prefer a smooth mash for topping the pie, a potato masher or a ricer will come in handy.
Once your tools and ingredients are ready, clear your countertop to give yourself ample space to work. Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (180°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the pie after the assembly.
Ingredients
- 14.1 oz white fish fillets (cod or haddock), skinless and boneless, cut into chunks
- 5.3 oz smoked fish (smoked haddock), skinless and boneless, cut into chunks
- 3.5 oz cooked peeled shrimp
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3.5 oz frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 13.5 fl oz whole milk
- 3.4 fl oz fish or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 28.2 oz potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)
- 1.7 fl oz milk (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (180°C fan-assisted). Let it warm up for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s perfectly ready for your delicious pie. This initial step is crucial as it allows the top of the pie to crisp up beautifully once baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the peeled, chunked potatoes. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Once they’re done, drain the water thoroughly. To achieve a creamy texture, mash the potatoes with the butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper. Set this aside — it will form the luscious topping for your pie.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
While your potatoes are boiling, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes or until the vegetables become soft and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of your curry sauce.
Step 4: Spice it Up
Next, stir in the mild curry powder and ground turmeric, cooking for an additional minute while continually stirring. You should be able to smell the fragrant spices wafting from the pan. This step will help release their flavors and pair beautifully with the fish later.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to your vegetable mix, stirring continuously for about a minute. This will create a roux — the thickening agent for your sauce. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and fish or vegetable stock, doing so in small increments to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, which should take approximately 4-5 minutes.
Step 6: Combine the Seafood
Once your sauce is smooth and luxurious, gently fold in the chunks of white fish, smoked fish, and frozen peas. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes — just enough to heat the fish through without boiling. Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the cooked shrimp and fresh parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Your filling is now ready!
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Transfer the curried fish filling into a large baking dish, ensuring an even spread across the bottom. Next, take the mashed potato topping and spread it evenly over the filling, using a fork to rough up the surface for that crispy texture. This is where the magic happens in the oven!
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Slide your assembled pie into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. You’ll want to watch as the potato topping turns a beautiful golden color and becomes crispy. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Variations
- Protein: Swap white fish for salmon or any firm fish, and try adding scallops or mussels for extra flavor.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition. You can also add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Spices: For a spicier kick, sprinkle in some chili powder or fresh chilies into the sauce.
Cooking Notes
- Using fresh seafood enhances the flavor and texture of the pie. Always check for freshness before purchasing.
- For an even creamier topping, try adding a bit more butter or cream to the mashed potatoes.
- Make it a day ahead: Assemble the pie without baking, refrigerate, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light salad dressed in a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.
- Pair it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious curry sauce.
Tips
- Experiment with different types of curry: If you love heat, try using a medium or hot curry powder.
- For garnishing, sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions on top just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 680mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the filling.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add chili powder or finely chopped fresh chilies into the sauce. Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the pie without baking it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before serving.
What can I serve with the Curried Fish Pie?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread for dipping in the sauce.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a hint of adventure, this Curried Fish Pie is the perfect recipe to try. With its creamy curry sauce and tender seafood, it’s a delightful twist on the traditional fish pie that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seafood or spices to make this dish your own. We’d love to hear how your version turns out! Share your thoughts, experiences, or any variations you try in the comments below!
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Curried Fish Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Curried Fish Pie is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender seafood with a rich curry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 14.1 oz white fish fillets (cod or haddock), skinless and boneless, cut into chunks
- 5.3 oz smoked fish (smoked haddock), skinless and boneless, cut into chunks
- 3.5 oz cooked peeled shrimp
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3.5 oz frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 13.5 fl oz whole milk
- 3.4 fl oz fish or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 28.2 oz potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)
- 1.7 fl oz milk (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for topping)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (180°C fan-assisted). Let it warm up for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s perfectly ready for your delicious pie.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the peeled, chunked potatoes. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Once they’re done, drain the water thoroughly. To achieve a creamy texture, mash the potatoes with the butter and milk, seasoning with salt and pepper. Set this aside — it will form the luscious topping for your pie.
- While your potatoes are boiling, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes or until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Next, stir in the mild curry powder and ground turmeric, cooking for an additional minute while continually stirring.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to your vegetable mix, stirring continuously for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and fish or vegetable stock, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
- Once your sauce is smooth, gently fold in the chunks of fish and frozen peas. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in shrimp and parsley, then season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the curried fish filling into a baking dish, ensuring an even spread across the bottom. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the filling, using a fork to rough up the surface.
- Slide your assembled pie into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This dish is perfect for family-friendly meals and can be made ahead of time. It’s adaptable to varying tastes with different types of seafood and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Protein: 36 g