She Strengthens

Hearty Fish Pie: A Comforting Twist on a British Classic

A Flavorful Take on a Traditional Dish

Fish pie, a beloved staple in British cuisine, has been reimagined for American cooks using hot-smoked salmon and fresh white fish. This comforting, shepherd’s pie-inspired dish is topped with a creamy Yukon Gold potato mash.

Selecting the Perfect Ingredients

When shopping for ingredients, choose a firm, smoky hot-smoked salmon and a thick, meaty white fish like halibut or cod. Ensure the fish is impeccably fresh for the best flavor.

The Mash: A Crucial Component

To prepare the mash, boil 2 1/2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return the potatoes to the pan, adding 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of warmed whole milk. Mash until creamy, then season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

The Filling: A Harmonious Blend

In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 medium yellow onion and 1 small carrot, cooking until golden and tender. Whisk in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, then slowly add 3 cups of whole milk, stirring to avoid lumps. Simmer the sauce, then add 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of minced chives, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Gently stir in 1/2 pound of hot-smoked salmon and 1 1/2 pounds of white fish fillets.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spoon the fish mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish, topping with spoonfuls of the reserved mashed potatoes. Spread the mash evenly, creating a rough texture with a fork and dotting with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes.

A Hearty, Satisfying Dish

This fish pie is a comforting, flavorful twist on a British classic. With its creamy mash and harmonious blend of smoked and white fish, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.