Description
Mary Berry’s Fish Pie with Leeks is a traditional British dish where fish such as cod, haddock, and prawns are cooked in a creamy sauce made with leeks, milk, and a hint of mustard. The mixture is then topped with a layer of mashed potatoes and baked until golden. The dish is rich and flavorful, and the leeks add a wonderful sweetness to complement the seafood.
Ingredients
- White Fish (300g, such as cod or haddock): Boneless and skinless.
- Smoked Haddock (300g): For a slightly smoky flavor.
- Prawns (150g, cooked and peeled): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Leeks (2 medium, sliced): Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
- Milk (600ml): To create the creamy sauce.
- Butter (75g): For the sauce and mashed potatoes.
- Plain Flour (50g): Helps thicken the sauce.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to the sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes (1kg, prepared): Smooth and buttery, for the topping.
- Cheddar Cheese (50g, grated): For a cheesy, golden topping.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with a little butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Leeks
- In a frying pan, melt a knob of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced leeks and cook gently for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Set aside.
Step 3: Poach the Fish
- In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat.
- Add the white fish and smoked haddock, and simmer for 5-6 minutes until the fish is just cooked through.
- Remove the fish with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the milk for the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the reserved milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked leeks to the sauce, and gently fold in the fish and prawns.
Step 5: Assemble the Fish Pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- Spoon the fish mixture into a medium-sized baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly over the fish mixture. Use a fork to create some texture on top.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Step 6: Bake the Fish Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve the Fish Pie
- Serve hot with steamed green vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.