How to Cook Eel Pie

If you are looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, why not give eel pie a go? This classic English dish may not be as popular as it once was, but it remains a delicious and unique option for seafood lovers and those seeking a taste of traditional English cuisine. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a mouth-watering Eel pie that will leave your taste buds tingling.

What is Eel Pie?

Eel pie is a savory dish that contains eel meat cooked in a pastry crust. This type of pie has been a staple dish in England since the 16th century. It was especially popular in the East End of London, where eels were caught in the River Thames. There are many variations to the recipe, and some people even add other ingredients such as potatoes or carrots to the filling. However, for this article, we will stick to the classic version of eel pie.

Selecting the Right Ingredients

The first step in creating a delicious eel pie is to select the right ingredients. When you go to purchase eel, look for fresh eel with clear eyes, a slippery and glossy skin, and firm flesh. If you can't find fresh eel, frozen eel is also a good option. Additionally, you will need puff pastry, butter, onions, flour, fish stock, and a few seasonings like salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Preparing the Eel

Once you have your ingredients, you need to prepare the eel. Start by cleaning the eel thoroughly under cold water. Cut off the head, tail, and fins, before removing the skin and bone. When deboning the meat, make sure not to break it up too much. You want to keep the eel in large pieces for the filling.

Preparing the Filling

After preparing the eel, you can start making the filling. Begin by melting some butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions to the pan and cook until they become translucent. Next, sprinkle some flour over the onions and stir for a few minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in fish stock, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Then, add the eel meat to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes.

Making the Pastry

While the filling is cooking, it's time to prepare the pastry. Begin by rolling out the puff pastry on a floured surface to your desired size. The pastry should be big enough to wrap around the eel filling with some dough to spare. Once you have rolled out the pastry, cut it in half. Use one half of the pastry to line the bottom of the baking dish, leaving some dough hanging over the edges. Prick the bottom of the pastry base with a fork, then add your eel filling.

Covering the Eel Filling

Next, use the other half of the pastry to create the lid for the eel pie. Place the pastry over the top of the filling and press the edges of the two halves of the pastry together to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut off any excess dough from around the edge of the dish. Take a fork and press along the edge of the pie to create a decorative pattern. You can also brush the top of the pastry with an egg wash to create a shiny and golden crust.

Baking the Eel Pie

Now that the pie is complete, it's time to bake it. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the eel pie inside. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Pierce the center of the pie with a knife to make sure the eel is cooked through. If it's not yet cooked, you can put the pie back in the oven for a little longer.

Serving the Pie

Once the eel pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it hot or cold, depending on your preference. Eel pie goes well with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, drizzle some thick gravy over the top of the pie or sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Eel pie may not be as popular as other English dishes, but it's a classic recipe that is worth trying. With fresh eel meat, rich pastry, and delicious seasonings, this dish is a unique and flavourful option for seafood lovers. Following the steps above, you can easily create an eel pie that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients, spices, or fillings to create your own version of this iconic English dish.