A traditional classic fisherman's pie, a quintessential comfort dish from South Africans coastal regions, is a heartwarming seafood casserole that embodies the essence of coastal cuisine.
At its core, this dish features a rich and creamy filling, typically made with a mix of tender fish like cod, haddock, or salmon, and sometimes prawns, all bathed in a velvety white sauce infused with herbs and onions.
The fish mixture is then topped with a layer of fluffy, golden mashed potatoes, which are sometimes mixed with cheese for added richness. Baked until the potatoes are crisply golden, and the sauce is bubbling at the edges, fisherman's pie offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavours.
It's a dish that's both simple and luxurious, deeply rooted in maritime traditions, and often served with peas or steamed vegetables on the side to complete the meal. This dish not only provides a hearty and satisfying dining experience but also tells a story of the South African fishing communities and their culinary ingenuity in making the most of the ocean's bounty.
The Traditional Fisherman's Pie
Ingredients
For the Fish Filling:
- 500g mixed fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, salmon), cut into chunks
- 200g peeled shrimp (optional)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 600ml milk
- 2 bay leaves
- 50g butter
- 50g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or whole grain)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 50g butter
- 100ml milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 50g grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish and Shrimp:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Place the fish fillets and shrimp (if using) in a pan. Pour over 600ml milk and add the bay leaves. Gently bring to a simmer and cook for 4 minutes. Remove the fish and shrimp with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve the milk.
Make the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt 50g butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft but not browned.
- Stir in 50g flour to form a roux. Gradually add the reserved milk, stirring continuously, until you have a smooth sauce.
- Add mustard, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Cook for a further 2 minutes.
Combine Fish and Sauce:
- Gently fold the fish and shrimp into the sauce. Transfer this mixture to a large baking dish.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Add 50g butter and 100ml milk or cream to the potatoes. Mash until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.
Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the fish mixture and spread out with a fork. If using, sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
- Let the pie sit for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Enjoy your traditional classic fisherman's pie, a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavours of the sea to your table!