Fisherman’s pie is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe, created by renowned British chef James Martin, features a delicious combination of haddock and cod infused with the smoky flavor of Arbroath smokies. The fish is cooked in a creamy white sauce, flavored with bay leaves, onion, and parsley, and then topped with a generous layer of fluffy mashed potatoes, enhanced with butter and cream. The pie is baked in the oven until golden and bubbling and then served alongside a side of buttery peas.
This dish is perfect for those who love the flavors of the sea and the warmth of good comfort food. It’s easy to make, filling, and sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Fishermans Pie Recipe James Martin
Ingredients
- 50g skin removed haddock
- 450g skin removed cod
- 2 Arbroath smokies (optional)
- ½ onion peeled (studded with 4 cloves)
- 2 bay leaves
- 40g butter
- 2 ½ tbs plain flour
- 500ml milk
- 1 small bunch choped parsley
To top
- 800g mashed potato
- 50g melted butter
- 100ml double cream
To serve
- 600g peas
- Knob of butter
Procedure
- To begin the cooking process, it is advised to preheat the oven to a temperature of 200 degrees Celsius or the equivalent gas mark 6.
- Prepare the haddock and cod by cutting them into sizeable pieces. Place them into a container suitable for use in an oven, and cover the top with small pieces of Arbroath smokies.
- Pierce the bay leaf and onion with the cloves and add them to a saucepan with the milk. Heat the mixture for two minutes.
- To prepare the white sauce, melt the butter in a pan over low heat. Gradually add the flour, constantly whisking to avoid lumps, and cook for approximately two minutes until the mixture turns golden. Next, slowly pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Increase the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally until it begins to bubble. Finally, add the chopped parsley and stir well to incorporate it throughout the sauce.
- Coat the fish generously with the sauce and spread the mashed potatoes over the entire surface of the pie, incorporating butter and cream for added richness. Bake in the oven for approximately 30 to 40 minutes until the pie is golden brown and heated through. Serve alongside steaming hot peas, finished with a small knob of butter for extra flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Fishermans Pie James Martin:
Choose the right fish
Use fresh, skinless haddock and cod for the best results. For flavor and texture, you can also add other seafood such as shrimp or salmon.
Add flavor with Arbroath smokies
Arbroath smokies are smoked haddock that adds a delicious smoky flavor. You can use regularly smoked haddock instead if you can’t find them.
Use a clove-studded onion
Adding a clove-studded onion to the milk when making the sauce adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
Make a smooth white sauce
Take your time when making the white sauce and ensure it is smooth and lumps-free. Whisk constantly and gradually add the milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Add herbs for freshness
Adding chopped parsley to the white sauce gives it a fresh, herby flavor that balances the dish’s richness.
Use creamy mashed potatoes
Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, and add butter and cream for extra richness. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the fish mixture to create a delicious golden crust.
Bake until golden brown
Bake the pie in a preheated oven until it is golden brown and heated through. This usually takes around 30-40 minutes. Serve alongside steaming hot peas for a classic British meal.
Serving tips for Fisherman’s Pie
Here are some serving tips for Fisherman’s Pie:
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the pie hot, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture.
- Accompany the pie with a side of freshly steamed peas, seasoned with a small knob of butter.
- For a complete meal, add a side salad or some roasted vegetables.
- Garnish the top of the pie with a sprinkling of chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
- Serve the pie in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Add some crusty bread or garlic bread to the table for a heartier meal.
Conclusion: Fishermans Pie James Martin
In conclusion, this Fisherman’s Pie recipe by James Martin is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of haddock, cod, and Arbroath smokies creates a rich and savory flavor that is complemented by the creamy mashed potato topping. The addition of peas as a side dish provides a balanced and nutritious meal. Overall, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a fantastic result that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
