Whitebait Pie

Introduction

Whitebait Pie is a traditional dish that has been around for centuries. It is a simple and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is made with whitebait (or other small fish), butter, onion, flour, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper, grated cheese, parsley, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. It is then baked in an unbaked 9-inch pie crust. The result is a savoury, flavorful pie that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ease of Preparation

Whitebait Pie is a relatively easy dish to make. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation time. All of the ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores. The preparation time is also fairly short, as it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare and assemble the ingredients. The baking time is also relatively short, at about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Whitebait Pie is a nutritious dish that is high in protein, low in fat, and high in fibre. One serving of Whitebait Pie contains approximately 200 calories, 10 grams of fat, 18 grams of protein, and 6 grams of dietary fibre. This dish also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Ingredients

-1 lb whitebait (or other small fish)

-2 tablespoons butter

-1 onion, finely chopped

-3 tablespoons flour

-1 cup milk

-1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

-Salt and pepper to taste

-1/2 cup grated cheese

-2 tablespoons chopped parsley

-1/2 cup breadcrumbs

-1/4 cup melted butter

-1 9-inch unbaked pie crust

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the whitebait and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add the flour and stir until combined. Gradually add the milk and Worcestershire sauce and stir until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the cheese, parsley, and breadcrumbs.

Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust and spread evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Cooking Tips

When preparing Whitebait Pie, it is important to use fresh whitebait. If frozen whitebait is used, it should be thawed before adding to the skillet. It is also important to cook the whitebait until it is just cooked through, as it can become tough if overcooked.

Flavour/Taste

Whitebait Pie has a savoury, flavorful taste. The whitebait is cooked in a buttery sauce with onion, flour, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. This creates a thick, creamy sauce that is full of flavour. The grated cheese and parsley add a hint of sharpness and freshness, while the breadcrumbs give the dish a crunchy texture.

Best Dishes Paired With

Whitebait Pie pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a green salad are all great accompaniments. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of rice or a loaf of crusty bread.

Origin of Dish and History

Whitebait Pie originated in England in the 19th century. The dish has since become popular in other parts of the world, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. The traditional recipe calls for whitebait, which is a small fish found in coastal waters. However, other types of small fish can be used in place of whitebait.

Popular Alternatives

In addition to Whitebait Pie, there are several other popular alternatives. Fish Pie is a popular variation that is made with a variety of fish and is topped with mashed potatoes. Seafood Pie is another popular variation that is made with a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and mussels. Both variations are delicious and can be easily adapted to suit any taste.