Nigerian Fish Pie Recipe: A Delicious and Comforting Treat

Fish pies are a beloved snack in Nigeria, known for their flaky crust and savory filling. Nigerian Fish Pie stands out among other variations for its unique blend of flavors, which are both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting snack or a delightful meal, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Nigeria right to your kitchen. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the Nigerian Fish Pie recipe, exploring the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for creating the perfect pie every time.

What is Nigerian Fish Pie?

Nigerian Fish Pie is a savory pastry made with a soft, flaky dough encasing a delicious filling of seasoned fish, vegetables, and spices. It is similar in style to the popular Nigerian Meat Pie but uses fish as the primary ingredient, making it a great alternative for those who prefer seafood. The filling is typically made with fresh fish, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and a mix of spices, all cooked together to create a hearty and flavorful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: The combination of fish, vegetables, and spices creates a filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can make this delicious snack at home.
Versatile: Nigerian Fish Pie can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a comforting meal, this pie is sure to please.

Nigerian Fish Pie Ingredients

Here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need for the Nigerian Fish Pie recipe:

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter (cubed)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold water (adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

2 cups fish fillet (mackerel, tilapia, or any preferred fish)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
1 medium carrot (finely diced)
1 bell pepper (diced)
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bouillon cube (Maggi or Knorr)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
1/4 cup water

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg (beaten)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. The key is to keep the butter cold to ensure a flaky crust.
Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough to avoid toughening it.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the dough and makes it easier to roll out.

2. Prepare the Filling

Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
Add the diced carrots and bell pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Flake the fish fillet into small pieces and add it to the pan. Stir in the curry powder, thyme, bouillon cube, black pepper, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
In a small bowl, mix the flour with 1/4 cup of water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the pan to thicken the filling. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined and thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

3. Assemble the Fish Pies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or the rim of a bowl, cut out circles of dough (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
Place a spoonful of the fish filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together with a fork to seal. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Place the pies on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.

4. Bake the Fish Pies

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Nigerian Fish Pie

Keep the Dough Cold: To achieve the perfect flaky crust, it’s essential to keep your dough cold. If at any point the dough feels too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
Use Fresh Fish: Fresh fish works best for this recipe as it imparts a richer flavor to the filling. If using frozen fish, make sure it’s completely thawed and drained of excess water.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to your taste. You can add more vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even add some potatoes for extra heartiness.
Seal the Edges Well: Properly sealing the edges of your pie will ensure that the filling stays inside and the pies hold their shape.

If you are still confused, you can also watch this video.

It is from popular Nigerian food content creator, Claudy.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian Fish Pie is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad, a cold beverage, or even a bowl of pepper soup for a truly comforting meal. They are also great for on-the-go snacks, lunchboxes, and picnics.

Conclusion

Nigerian Fish Pie is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of Nigerian cuisine to life. With its flaky crust and savory filling, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re new to making pies or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a batch of these delicious pies. Happy cooking!

Feel free to share your thoughts and variations of the Nigerian Fish Pie recipe in the comments below. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delightful dish!