Russian fish pie

Fish Pie – a Warm and Comforting Delight

Who doesn’t love a delicious pie filled with fish and aromatic herbs? This fish pie recipe is perfect for a special dinner or to impress your guests. The combination of smoked salmon and tuna, wrapped in a delightful pastry, creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Plus, this recipe is very versatile: you can adapt it according to your preferences and the ingredients available.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6

A Brief History

Pies with various fillings have been made for centuries in different cultures. Their origins lie in the desire to preserve food, make it easier to transport, and add a touch of flavor. This fish pie blends tradition with innovation, offering a combination of textures and flavors that should not be missed.

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 300 g tuna in olive oil (drained)
- 250 g smoked salmon
- 150 ml milk
- 150 ml water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh parsley (chopped)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (peeled and chopped)
- 30 g butter
- 30 g flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For the pastry:
- 375 g flour (plus a handful for dusting)
- 240 g butter (cold, cubed)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Pepper (to taste)
- A pinch of ground cumin
- 5 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons palm oil (or olive oil)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the pastry

1. Measuring the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and cumin. Add the cold butter and mix using a mixer or your fingers until you achieve a texture resembling fine sand.

2. Adding the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the yogurt and palm oil. Pour the mixture over the dry ingredients and knead quickly until you have a smooth dough, but do not overwork it, as it may become dense.

3. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour. This step is crucial for achieving a tender and manageable pastry.

Preparing the filling

4. Heating the ingredients: In a small pot, combine the milk, water, bay leaf, and a sprig of parsley. Add the salmon cut into pieces and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat and let it steep for 10 minutes.

5. Draining the salmon: Drain the salmon, keeping the cooking liquid. This will be used to create the sauce.

6. Making the sauce: In a pan, melt the butter, add the flour, and sauté for one minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add the reserved liquid and stir until the sauce thickens.

7. Adding the flavors: Add the lemon juice, nutmeg, parsley, and pepper. Simmer for one minute, then mix the sauce with the salmon, tuna, and boiled eggs. Allow the mixture to cool completely (about an hour).

Assembling the pie

8. Rolling out the pastry: Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it out on a sheet of parchment paper into a square shape measuring 30 cm on each side.

9. Adding the filling: Place the fish filling in the center of the pastry. Moisten the edges of the pastry with a little water. Lift two opposite corners of the pastry over the filling, then repeat with the other two corners, forming a pie.

10. Sealing the pie: Press the seams with a fork to seal them well. Brush the surface of the pie with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust.

11. Baking: Transfer the pie onto a baking tray (with the parchment paper) and bake in a preheated oven at 220 degrees Celsius for 30-40 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Serving

The fish pie can be served warm or cold. A delicious option is to accompany it with a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which adds a touch of freshness. Don’t forget to garnish it with a sprig of parsley for an attractive appearance!

Variations and Suggestions

- You can replace the tuna with shrimp for a more sophisticated version. This change will add a delicate flavor and interesting texture.
- Add some finely chopped green or black olives to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you prefer a stronger taste, use smoked salmon instead of fresh salmon.

Nutritional Benefits

This fish pie is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have proven benefits for heart and brain health. Tuna is rich in protein and vitamins, making this pie a great choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of fish, such as cod or trout, based on your preferences.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispiness.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe contains fish and dairy, but you can adapt it using tofu or vegetables and a vegan pastry.

Personal Note

This fish pie is a recipe I love to make for my loved ones. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, nothing compares to the joy of savoring a slice of warm pie filled with flavors. So, unleash your creativity and enjoy every bite!

Enjoy this fish pie with a glass of chilled white wine or freshly made lemonade. Bon appétit!