Mary Berry Christmas Fish Pie Recipe
This fish pie combines flaky white fish, smoked fish, and prawns in a creamy sauce, topped with buttery mashed potatoes. Mary Berry’s version is rich and indulgent, making it a standout dish during the holiday season. It’s the perfect combination of creamy textures and delicious flavors.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
For the Filling
- White Fish (300g): Such as cod or haddock, for a flaky texture.
- Smoked Fish (200g): Like smoked haddock, for a depth of flavor.
- Cooked Prawns (150g): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Milk (500ml): For poaching the fish and making the sauce.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Flour (50g): Thickens the sauce.
- Leek (1, finely sliced): Adds a subtle onion flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): For freshness and color.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Adds a warm, festive flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For the Topping
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled and chopped): For the creamy mash topping.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness to the mash.
- Cream (50ml): Makes the mash extra smooth.
- Cheese (optional, 50g grated): For a golden, crispy topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: Poach the fish
In a saucepan, heat the milk gently and add the white fish and smoked fish. Poach for 5 minutes, or until the fish starts to flake. Remove the fish, reserving the milk, and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the sauce
In the same saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour to form a roux. Gradually add the reserved milk, whisking continuously, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Stir in the leeks, parsley, nutmeg, and seasoning.
Step 4: Assemble the filling
Flake the poached fish into bite-sized pieces and combine it with the cooked prawns in the sauce. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
Step 5: Make the mashed potato topping
Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter and cream. Season with salt and pepper, and spread the mash evenly over the fish filling. Use a fork to create decorative ridges on the surface.
Step 6: Add the cheese (optional)
Sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potato if desired for a golden crust.
Step 7: Bake the pie
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 8: Serve
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley for a festive touch.