This seafood pie recipe is a delightful combination of tender cod, succulent prawns, and creamy Stilton cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. With its flaky pastry crust and rich filling, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers and makes for a satisfying main course. The recipe serves 4 and can be enjoyed as a comforting family meal or a special dinner with friends.
INGREDIENTS:
- 700g/1 1/2lb potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 450g/1lb cod fillet
- 450ml/3/4pt milk
- 75g/3oz butter, plus extra for greasing
- 350g/12oz trimmed leeks, sliced
- Freshly grated nutmeg
- 25g/1oz plain flour
- 100g/4oz Stilton cheese
- 50ml/2fl oz single cream
- 225g/8oz peeled and deveined cooked prawns
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5. Lightly grease a 1.7-litre/3pt pie dish and place it on a baking tray.
- Cook the potatoes in a pan of salted boiling water for 5 minutes or until partially softened, then drain thoroughly.
- Place the cod in a shallow pan and pour over 50ml/2fl oz of the milk. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cover and poach for 5 minutes until tender. Drain the cod, reserving the liquid. Flake the cod, discarding the skin and bones.
- Melt 25g/1oz of the butter in a pan and sauté the sliced leeks for 3 minutes, adding freshly grated nutmeg to taste.
- In another small pan, melt the remaining butter. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and gradually blend in the remaining milk and the reserved fish liquid, stirring until smooth.
- Return the pan to the heat and cook, stirring, until the sauce has thickened. Crumble in the Stilton cheese and add the single cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Put the flaked cod, sautéed leeks, and cooked prawns in the prepared pie dish. Spoon over half of the sauce, add the partially cooked sliced potatoes, and pour over the remaining sauce.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until golden and bubbling. Serve immediately.
YIELD:
- Serves 4.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of white wine to the sauce.
- Feel free to add other seafood or fish of your choice, such as salmon or smoked haddock, to the pie for added variety.
- For an extra crispy crust, brush the pastry with beaten egg or milk before baking.
- Ensure the potatoes are thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can also add herbs like parsley or dill for additional flavor.
This seafood pie offers a delectable combination of delicate cod, succulent prawns, and a creamy Stilton cheese sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. The blend of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and indulgent dish that is perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
The recipe starts with partially cooking the sliced potatoes and poaching the cod until tender. The sautéed leeks add a delightful savory note, while the Stilton cheese sauce brings richness and creaminess to the filling. The prawns add an additional layer of flavor and texture, making the pie a true seafood delight.
To prepare the pie, layer the flaked cod, sautéed leeks, and cooked prawns in a greased pie dish. Pour over the Stilton cheese sauce, adding a layer of partially cooked sliced potatoes. Top with the remaining sauce and bake until golden and bubbling.
The result is a beautifully golden and flavorful seafood pie that is sure to impress your guests. Serve it immediately as the perfect centerpiece for a dinner party or a special family meal. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite seafood or fish, adjusting the seasoning to your taste, or incorporating herbs and spices to enhance the flavors further. You can also experiment with different types of cheese if you prefer a milder or more pronounced cheesy taste.
Indulge in the savory and creamy goodness of this seafood pie, and let it transport you to a coastal culinary experience. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite among seafood lovers and leave everyone satisfied and craving for more.
