What To Serve With A Fish Pie: Complete Guide & Key Details
So, you’ve made a fish pie. Awesome! That’s already a win. That creamy, flaky goodness deserves some seriously good company. What goes with fish pie? That’s the million-dollar question, right? But guess what? It’s also a super fun question to answer!
Fish pie isn’t just food. It’s a hug in a dish. It’s comfort. It’s… well, it’s fish and potato and sauce. But when you nail the sides, it’s a whole symphony for your taste buds.
Let’s ditch the fancy chef talk. We’re just pals, figuring out what makes this pie sing. No pressure. Just delicious ideas.
The Undisputed Champions: Veggies!
Okay, okay, I know. Veggies. Groundbreaking. But hear me out. When it comes to fish pie, not just any old salad will do. We’re talking about the right veggies. The ones that complement, not compete.
The Classics That Never Fail
First up, the undisputed king: peas. Seriously, is there a more perfect pairing than fish pie and peas? It’s like they were born to be together. They add a pop of sweetness and a little burst of green. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make. Frozen peas are your best friend here. A quick boil or steam, and boom! Instant veggie joy.
Then there’s broccoli. Oh, broccoli, you magnificent florets of goodness. Steamed broccoli is a revelation. It’s got that slight earthiness that cuts through the richness of the pie. Don’t overcook it though! We want it tender-crisp, not mushy. Nobody wants a soggy broccoli situation.
And let’s not forget sweetcorn. Another one for the pop-of-sweetness brigade. Whether it’s fresh, frozen, or even from a can (we’ve all been there!), sweetcorn adds a lovely sweetness and a different texture. It’s a happy little addition.
The Supporting Cast: Adding Texture and Zing
Beyond the obvious green stuff, we can get a little more adventurous. Think about what else can bring a little oomph to your plate.
A Little Bit of Crunch
What about something with a bit more bite? Green beans, for example. French beans, if you’re feeling fancy. A quick sauté or steam until they’re bright green and still have a little snap. They add a lovely freshness and a satisfying crunch.
And have you ever considered cabbage? A simple steamed or braised cabbage can be surprisingly good. The slight bitterness of some cabbages can be a wonderful contrast to the creamy pie. It’s a bit of a quirky choice, but trust me, it works!
Kale is another one. Sautéed with a little garlic and a squeeze of lemon. It’s healthy, it’s tasty, and it adds a lovely, slightly chewy texture.
A Touch of Tang
Sometimes, you need something to cut through all that richness. A little bit of acidity. That’s where pickled onions or gherkins come in. A small bowl of these on the side can be a game-changer. That sharp, vinegary punch is like a wake-up call for your palate.
And lemon wedges! Never underestimate the power of a fresh lemon wedge. A good squeeze over your fish pie can elevate the whole thing. It brightens everything up. It’s simple, it’s effective, it’s essential.
The Starchy Sidekicks: More Than Just Potatoes
Okay, so fish pie usually has a potato topping. We get it. But what if you want something else to soak up all that delicious sauce? Or just something to bulk out the meal?
Beyond the Mash
Boiled new potatoes are a great option. Drizzled with a little butter and chopped parsley. Simple, elegant, and allows the fish pie to be the star.
What about rice? Plain boiled rice. It sounds a bit basic, but it’s brilliant for soaking up extra sauce. Think of it as a blank canvas for all that creamy, fishy goodness.
And for the truly adventurous? Crusty bread. A good, honest loaf of crusty bread. Perfect for mopping up every last delicious drop. It’s primal. It’s satisfying. It’s a must-have for many.
Quirky Additions: Because Why Not?
Let’s get a little weird. What are some of the less obvious but surprisingly delightful partners for fish pie?
The Unexpected Heroes
A sprinkle of chopped hard-boiled eggs. It’s a classic in some fish pie recipes, but having them on the side is also a treat. The creamy yolk and firm white add another layer of texture and flavour. It’s a little bit retro, and totally delicious.
Sauce. More sauce! Sometimes, the pie just isn’t enough. A small jug of extra parsley sauce or even a simple tartare sauce can be a welcome addition. Dip your forkful into a little extra sauce. Pure indulgence.
And how about a fried egg on top? Yes, you heard me. A perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk, placed right on top of your fish pie. It’s a breakfast-for-dinner situation that’s just chef’s kiss. The runny yolk acts like a sauce itself. Glorious!
The Drink To Go With It
Every great meal needs a great drink. What pairs well with fish pie?
Sip, Sip, Hooray!
White wine is the obvious choice. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. They cut through the richness without being overpowering. A dry sherry can also be surprisingly good!
If you’re more of a beer person, a light lager or a pale ale would work well. Nothing too heavy or hoppy.
And for the non-alcoholic crew? Sparkling water with lemon. It’s refreshing and doesn’t compete with the flavours of the pie. Or a nice, cool glass of iced tea.
Ultimately, the best thing to serve with fish pie is what you love. These are just ideas to get your culinary wheels turning. So go forth, experiment, and enjoy your glorious fish pie feast! Don’t be afraid to get a little creative. After all, life’s too short for boring sides!