Latvian Fish Pie (Zivju Pīrāgs)
A comforting and hearty fish pie featuring layers of flaky fish, potatoes, and a creamy dill sauce, all encased in a simple pastry crust. This dish showcases Latvia's connection to the Baltic Sea and its agricultural bounty.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g White fish fillets (e.g., cod, pike-perch)(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 500 g Potatoes(peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 50 g Butter
- 30 g All-purpose flour
- 400 ml Milk
- 30 g Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 sheet Pie crust pastry(store-bought or homemade)
- 1 for brushing Egg yolk
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
💡 Tip: Ensure oven is fully preheated before baking. - 2
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- 4
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents lumps and scorching. - 5
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of a greased pie dish. Top with the fish pieces, then pour the creamy dill sauce over the fish. Arrange the remaining potato slices on top.
- 6
Cover the pie with the pastry sheet, trimming and crimping the edges. Cut a few vents in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush the pastry with egg yolk for a golden finish.
💡 Tip: Vents are crucial to prevent the pastry from bursting. - 7
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
💡 Tip: If pastry browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil. - 8
Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a mix of fish for varied flavor and texture.
- ✓Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking.
- ✓Don't overcook the fish before assembling, as it will cook further in the oven.
🔄 Variations
- Add leeks or leek greens to the sautéed onions.
- Incorporate a handful of cooked peas or corn for color.
- Use a puff pastry for a lighter, flakier crust.