As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I adore this British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate! This comforting recipe combines tender seafood with a creamy sauce, all wrapped in crispy phyllo layers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try this delightful pie, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough
This British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The flaky phyllo adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy seafood filling warms your heart. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy fish and shrimp, making it a win-win for both taste and nutrition!
Ingredients for British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough. Here’s what you’ll need:
- White fish: Cod or haddock works beautifully, providing a mild flavor and flaky texture.
- Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these little gems add a sweet, briny taste that complements the fish.
- Milk: This creamy base helps create a luscious sauce that binds everything together.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds depth and sweetness to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma and a hint of warmth to the dish.
- Butter: Essential for sautéing and creating a rich, buttery sauce.
- All-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce, giving it a velvety consistency.
- Dill and parsley: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish and add a pop of color and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the taste of the seafood.
- Phyllo dough: The star of the show! Its flaky layers create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- Egg: Beaten egg is used for an egg wash, giving the top a beautiful golden finish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. If you can’t find phyllo dough, puff pastry is a great alternative. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want that pie to bake perfectly, with a golden crust and a warm, creamy filling.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential; the aroma of sautéed onion and garlic will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious pie!
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. This creamy sauce is the heart of your pie, binding all those lovely flavors together.
Step 4: Add the Seafood
Now, it’s time to add the white fish and shrimp to the sauce. Gently fold in the dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture until the fish turns opaque, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is vital; it ensures your seafood is perfectly cooked and infused with flavor.
Step 5: Cool the Mixture
Once your seafood mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This is important because adding hot filling to phyllo dough can make it soggy. We want that delightful crunch!
Step 6: Layer the Phyllo Dough
Grab your phyllo dough and a greased baking dish. Layer 4 sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with melted butter. This creates a flaky, crispy base for your pie. Don’t worry if the sheets tear; it adds character!
Step 7: Fill the Pie
Pour the cooled seafood mixture into the phyllo-lined dish. Spread it evenly, then cover it with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with butter again. Seal the edges well to keep all that delicious filling inside.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Finally, brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. Bake your pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells heavenly, and the top is perfectly browned!
Tips for Success
- Always keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the seafood mixture.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or tarragon for a unique twist.
- Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite vegetables!
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9-inch pie dish works well, but any oven-safe dish will do.
- saucepan: For sautéing and making the sauce; a non-stick one is ideal.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce smoothly.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying butter to the phyllo layers.
- Knife: For chopping vegetables and seafood.
Variations
- Vegetable Medley: Add a mix of peas, carrots, or spinach for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Smoked Fish: Substitute some of the white fish with smoked salmon for a rich, savory flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free phyllo dough or puff pastry to accommodate dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair your pie with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the seafood beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and elegance.
FAQs about British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen fish works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This way, you’ll avoid excess moisture in your pie.
What can I substitute for phyllo dough?
If phyllo dough isn’t available, puff pastry is a fantastic alternative. It will give you a different texture but still deliver that comforting, flaky goodness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results, ensuring the crust stays crispy.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve!
What sides pair well with this fish pie?
A light salad or some steamed vegetables make excellent companions. They balance the richness of the pie and add a fresh touch to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Making this British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family savor each bite warms my heart. This dish brings comfort and a sense of togetherness, perfect for busy nights or special occasions. The flaky phyllo adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy seafood filling is simply irresistible. I hope you find as much joy in preparing and sharing this pie as I do. It’s a recipe that truly embodies love, warmth, and the magic of home-cooked meals!
Print
British Fish Pie with Flaky Phyllo Dough: A Must-Try Delight!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious British fish pie featuring flaky phyllo dough, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish (such as cod or haddock)
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dill
- 1 teaspoon parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 sheets of phyllo dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add flour and stir for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer and add fish, shrimp, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook until fish is opaque.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Layer phyllo dough in a greased baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
- Pour the fish mixture into the phyllo-lined dish.
- Cover with remaining phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter, and seal the edges.
- Brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Ensure the fish is fresh for the best flavor.
- Phyllo dough can be substituted with puff pastry if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: British Fish Pie, Flaky Phyllo Dough, Comfort Food, Seafood Pie