Making a fish pie is a delicious and comforting dish that typically consists of a creamy filling of various types of fish, topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbly. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:



Ingredients:


For the filling:

- 500g mixed white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or pollock), cut into chunks

- 200g smoked haddock or salmon, cut into chunks

- 200g cooked and peeled prawns or shrimp

- 1 leek, finely chopped

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 250ml fish stock

- 250ml whole milk or heavy cream

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: a handful of peas or other vegetables


For the mashed potato topping:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

- 50g butter

- 50ml milk

- Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:


1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).


2. Start by making the mashed potato topping:

   - Boil the potato chunks in salted water until they are tender.

   - Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.


3. For the filling:

   - In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, leek, and garlic. Sauté until they are softened.

   - Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for a minute or two to remove the raw taste of the flour.

   - Gradually pour in the fish stock and milk (or cream), stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes a creamy sauce.

   - Add the mixed white fish fillets and smoked haddock or salmon to the sauce. Gently cook for a few minutes until the fish starts to flake. Be careful not to overcook.

   - Add the cooked prawns or shrimp, chopped parsley, and peas (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Gently fold the mixture together.


4. Assembling the fish pie:

   - Transfer the fish and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly.

   - Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the fish mixture, spreading them out with a fork. You can create a decorative pattern on the surface if you'd like.


5. Baking the fish pie:

   - Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.


6. Once baked, remove the fish pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.


7. Serve the fish pie with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.


Enjoy your homemade fish pie! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seafood or vegetables to the filling, and adjust the seasoning according to your taste.