Fisherman’s Pie is a traditional dish belonging to British cuisine. As the name suggests, it is a pie made of fish. It is also referred to as fish pie. Usually white fish like cod, haddock or halibut is used for making the pie. The pie is often relished as a snack item or eaten as an appetizer before the main course meal.
History And Origin Of Fisherman’s Pie
Fisherman’s Pie recipe is said to have its origin in Scotland. Fish in earlier times was eaten to honor goddess Venus. Romans were fond of eating fish but when they invaded Britain they were disrespected for their fetish. At that time in Britain, this seafood was mainly consumed on Fridays. The Fisherman’s Pie recipe was thus brought to Britain by these invaders.
Besides, it is also said that during the Lent fasting, meat except fish was prohibited and so to have a variety in food, many new recipes were tried and thus the recipe for fish pie evolved. Traditionally, the pie would be made by combining it with spices, wine, sugar and rosewater. The pie was covered in a pastry sheet and baked.
Method of preparation of Fisherman’s Pie recipe
The major ingredients used in a Fisherman’s Pie recipe are white fish, butter, flour, eggs and milk. Parsley, lemon, salt and pepper are used to enhance the flavor of the dish. The fish is cooked prior and boiled with the milk. The butter is heated and flour is added to it. When cooked enough, the milk used earlier and the flaked fish is combined with the dough in the pan and cooked for some time. The prepared mixture is transferred to a shallow dish and is topped with mashed potatoes. The pie is baked until golden brown in color.
Variations In Fisherman’s Pie Recipe
A traditional Fisherman’s Pie recipe makes use of white fish. Cod, haddock and halibut are the mostly used fish for making this dish. However, white fish fillet, salmon, and prawns can also be used. Some vegetables like mushrooms and leaks are also added in the dish to make the pie tastier. White sauce is also used in some Fisherman’s Pie recipes. The sauce gives and amazing flavor to these British meat pies. Instead of using mashed potatoes for the topping, the preparation of fish pie sometimes makes use of sliced potatoes. Short crust and puff pastry are two other substitutes of mashed potatoes.
Serving Fisherman’s Pies
Fisherman’s Pie is usually served as snack item. The dish pairs well with salads and soups. Cooked peas and baked spinach with cheese are the two popular accompaniments with this dish. British consider Fisherman’s Pie as an ideal supper dish and relish it with oaked chardonnay drink. Broccoli and steamed vegetables also pair well with fisherman’s pie.
Fisherman’s Pie In Different Cuisines
The fisherman’s pies or the fish pies are common to various cuisines of the world. The dish is popular in Spanish cuisine where the pies are along with fine veal and famed scallops. People love to eat these pies in India also where cod, hammock and salmon is cooked with various Indian herbs and spices. Cod pot fish pie is a popular recipe of Alaska. In Russia, less of vegetables are used for the Fisherman’s Pie preparation and traditionally fish broth was served with these amazing pies. Russian pies are usually made by using freshwater fish.
Nutritional value of Fisherman’s Pie recipe
Fisherman’s Pie recipe is rich in carbohydrates and not recommended for those following a low carbs diet. The dish contains refined sugar and is high in calorific value. The pies which have a high content of sugar and white flour are basically high on glycemic index and thus can be a reason for increase in blood sugar level. The pies are undoubtedly delicious, but should be consumed in moderation. Preferably, a pie made with whole grain flour and lower sugar levels should be consumed.
Popular Fisherman’s Pie Recipe
Trivia-Fisherman’s Pie
Although a Fisherman’s Pie is made of fish, it can be easily frozen for few days.