Introduction to Curried Fish Pie
I know that juggling work, kids, and meals can feel like plate-spinning! That’s why my Curried Fish Pie is a delightful go-to for any evening. This dish beautifully marries the comforting elements of traditional fish pie with vibrant aromas of curry, making it a standout. Imagine sitting down to dinner, savoring a creamy and flavorful pie that pleases both your palate and everyone at the table. It’s an effortless way to impress your loved ones while sneaking in some nutritious seafood!
Why You’ll Love This Curried Fish Pie
Let’s face it: life can be hectic. This Curried Fish Pie combines speed and simmering flavors to create a meal that warms the soul. You can whip it up in just over an hour, perfect for busy evenings. The combination of creamy seafood and aromatic spices will elevate your weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in omega-3s while keeping your family happy. Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for Curried Fish Pie
This Curried Fish Pie shines brightly thanks to its ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in crafting the dish’s delightful flavors. Here, I’ll walk you through what you’ll need:
- White fish fillets: I prefer cod or haddock for their flakiness. They soak up flavors beautifully.
- Smoked fish: Smoked haddock adds a rich, savory depth to the pie, making it irresistibly flavorful.
- Cooked shrimp: These little gems bring a delightful bite and sweetness to the mix. Feel free to swap with scallops if you wish!
- Onion: A finely chopped onion forms the aromatic base, giving warmth and complexity.
- Garlic: Nothing beats the fragrant kick of garlic! It harmonizes everything perfectly.
- Carrot: Diced carrots add a hint of natural sweetness and a lovely color.
- Frozen peas: These bright green bites give a pop of color and are super easy to use.
- Unsalted butter: Key for sautéing and creating that rich, indulgent creaminess in the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Just a touch to thicken the sauce and give it that silky texture.
- Whole milk: For creaminess! You could substitute with a plant-based alternative if desired.
- Fish or vegetable stock: Use homemade for a boost in flavor, or store-bought works just fine.
- Mild curry powder: This is the star of the show! Offers warmth without overwhelming heat.
- Ground turmeric: Not only does it add beautiful color, but it also packs health benefits!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkling of fresh herbs brightens everything up with a refreshing touch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors. Taste as you go!
- Potatoes: Peeled and chunked, they create that classic, comforting mashed layer on top.
- Additional butter and milk: Needed for the mashed potatoes to achieve that creamy finish.
You’ll find all exact quantities at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Now, let’s whip up some magic in the kitchen!
How to Make Curried Fish Pie
Alright, let’s dive into the heart of this Curried Fish Pie. The process is straightforward, and I promise the results are worth it. Follow along as I guide you through the steps, each designed to make your cooking experience joyful and fulfilling!
Preparing the Potatoes
Boiling and Mashing
Start by filling a pot with salted water and toss in your peeled, chunked potatoes. Bring the water to a boil and let them bubble away for about 15 minutes until they’re tender. You want them soft enough to mash easily.
Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add in a generous amount of unsalted butter and a splash of milk. Then, mash them until creamy and smooth. Trust me; the aroma will warm your kitchen.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Set your fluffy potatoes aside while we move on to the filling.
Making the Curried Filling
Sautéing Vegetables
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt some unsalted butter. Toss in your finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about five minutes. You should see the vegetables soften and become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a loving aroma.
Adding Spices and Flour
Next, sprinkle in the mild curry powder and ground turmeric. Cook this mixture for about a minute; let those spices dance together and awaken their flavors.
Then, whisk in a touch of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about a minute. This creates a nice roux. It’s the secret to thickening and giving your sauce the love it needs!
Creating the Sauce
Now, gradually pour in the whole milk and fish or vegetable stock, whisking as you go. This will help prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and turns creamy, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes. It’s like a warm hug in a sauce!
Incorporating the Seafood
Carefully fold in the white fish and smoked fish chunks, along with the frozen peas. Let this simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, just enough to warm the ingredients without boiling the sauce.
Finally, remove the heat and stir in those delightful shrimp and freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to ensure every bit is packed with flavor.
Assembling the Pie
Transferring the Filling
Grab a baking dish and lovingly transfer your curried seafood filling into it. Spread it evenly – each spoonful deserves its moment to shine!
Spreading the Mashed Potatoes
Now for the crowning glory: spread the creamy mashed potatoes on top of the filling. Use a fork to create lovely textures. It adds character and a little extra crunch once baked.
Baking and Serving
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (180°C fan-assisted). Once your pie is assembled, pop it into the oven for about 25 minutes. You want to see that beautiful golden crust forming on the potatoes, giving it a tempting look.
Resting and Serving
When it’s done, let your dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This pause enhances the flavors and gives you time to admire your culinary masterpiece!
Now, gather around the table. Your Curried Fish Pie is ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
- For creamier mashed potatoes, add more butter and milk as desired.
- Let the pie rest before serving; it helps set the filling.
- Prep the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy dinner solution.
- Experiment with different seafood combinations for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: Any sturdy pot will do, even a Dutch oven works wonders!
- Large saucepan: A heavy-bottomed pan helps to distribute heat evenly.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth sauce, a fork can work in a pinch.
- Baking dish: A versatile casserole dish or oven-safe pan is perfect!
- Masher: If you don’t have a potato masher, a fork will suffice.
Variations of Curried Fish Pie
- Spicy Curried Fish Pie: Enhance your dish by using a spicier curry powder or adding a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the fish for hearty vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes, while using vegetable stock for added flavor.
- Refined Protein: Incorporate alternative seafood like scallops or crab for a more luxurious twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter and whole milk with coconut milk and dairy-free butter to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro to bring unique flavors to your pie.
Serving Suggestions for Curried Fish Pie
- Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the spices perfectly.
- Garnish with extra parsley or chives for an eye-catching finish.
- Consider a side of roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition!
FAQs about Curried Fish Pie
Can I make Curried Fish Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish works wonders for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and assemble the pie just before baking.
What types of fish are best for this recipe?
I love using a mix of white fish like cod or haddock, along with some smoked fish for that smoky twist. Feel free to experiment with whatever seafood you have on hand!
Can I freeze Curried Fish Pie?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just be sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. It’s like a warm hug on a busy day!
Is Curried Fish Pie gluten-free?
Yes, this Curried Fish Pie is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free flour for thickening. Always check your labels to be safe.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with the mild curry powder. For those who want a kick, try a stronger curry blend or add chili flakes to the filling!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Curried Fish Pie is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. Each bite brims with warmth, comfort, and flavor, inviting everyone to gather and share stories together. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy nights, ensuring you can satisfy hungry bellies without a fuss. Plus, it’s a dish that allows you to experiment and tailor to your family’s preferences. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, sparking laughter and love around your dinner table!
Print
Curried Fish Pie
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Curried Fish Pie is a delicious seafood dish that offers a unique twist on traditional fish pie, incorporating aromatic spices and a creamy sauce.
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
- 1.7 fl oz milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set oven to 400°F (180°C fan-assisted) and allow 10 minutes for preheating.
- Boil peeled and chunked potatoes in salted water for approximately 15 minutes until completely tender. Drain thoroughly, then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
- While the potatoes cook, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in curry powder and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Add flour to the saucepan and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a paste-like consistency.
- Gradually whisk in milk and stock in small amounts to prevent lumping. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add white fish chunks, smoked fish chunks, and frozen peas to the sauce. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes without boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in shrimp, fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer curried fish filling to a baking dish. Spread mashed potato topping evenly and create texture on top with a fork.
- Bake for 25 minutes until the potato topping is golden and crispy. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use a stronger curry powder or add chili flakes.
- Feel free to substitute other seafood or use a mix of fresh and frozen fish.
- This pie can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
