Sea Scallop and Cod Pie Topped with Mashed Potatoes
Description: Delight in the comforting embrace of this Irish classic—a Sea Scallop and Cod Pie crowned with a golden layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for those who are fasting or avoiding red meat, especially during Lent. The dish shines with the delicate flavors of sea scallops and tender cod, enriched by a savory mushroom sauce. For a different twist, consider substituting shrimp for the scallops. This recipe, featuring bay scallops as a substitute, offers a delectable alternative while showcasing the superior taste of sea scallops. 🥔🍲
Category: One Dish Meal
Keywords: Potato, Vegetable, European, St. Patrick’s Day, < 4 Hours
Servings: 6
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Calories per Serving: 293.9
Fat Content: 10.4g
Saturated Fat Content: 6g
Cholesterol Content: 71.8mg
Sodium Content: 942.7mg
Carbohydrate Content: 29.1g
Fiber Content: 2.3g
Sugar Content: 2.6g
Protein Content: 19.3g
Ingredients:
- 8 sea scallops
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 cup butter (divided)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sherry wine
- 1 1/2 – 2 1/2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Seafood: Begin by cleaning the sea scallops and cutting them in half. Keep the cod fillets whole. Gently simmer both the scallops and cod in the milk for about 15 minutes. This will infuse the milk with their delicate flavors.
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Reduce the Liquid: After simmering, strain the liquid to remove any impurities. Return the liquid to the heat and reduce it further by simmering for an additional 5 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
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Make the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Gradually add the reduced milk, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
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Season and Add Ingredients: Season the sauce with salt and white pepper. Add the sliced mushrooms and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the sherry wine and then fold in the scallops and cod. Allow the mixture to heat through.
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Assemble the Pie: Transfer the seafood mixture to an oiled 2-quart ovenproof dish. Evenly spread the prepared mashed potatoes over the top, ensuring they cover the fish completely right to the edges.
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Bake: Dot the mashed potatoes with the remaining butter and sprinkle with paprika for a touch of color and flavor. Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
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Optional Enhancements: For added flavor, you can incorporate 2 sliced scallions and 1/4 cup green peas into the seafood mixture before topping with mashed potatoes. If sherry is unavailable, vermouth makes a great substitute.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. This hearty, satisfying dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes: Feel free to experiment with different seafood or vegetables based on your preferences or what’s available. This dish is highly versatile and can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary needs.
Enjoy this comforting Irish classic as a warming and satisfying meal any time of the year! 🌿🍽️
