April’s cheese of the month is…
Ilchester’s Applewood Smoked Cheddar
With the arrival of Spring and Easter in our thoughts this month we have created a delicious fish pie with Applewood Smoked Cheddar.
This traditional farmhouse Cheddar is a real English treasure. It has a delicate smoky flavour and a lovely smooth texture. First created in 1965, this cheese has stood the test of time.
Fish pie is the ultimate comfort food the whole family can enjoy, and is a traditional favourite for those celebrating Good Friday. Perfect for Spring evenings or Easter celebrations with the family, this warming pie can be made in advance and baked just before serving.
April’s recipe is:
Luxury Fish Pie with Applewood Topping
Ingredients:
- 750g mixed fish, skinned and boneless (e.g. pollock, smoked haddock, cod, salmon)
- 140g raw tiger prawns
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 heaped tsp of salted capers, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 3 cornichons (baby gherkins), chopped (optional)
For the sauce:
- 250ml milk
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- 30g butter
- 75g Applewood Smoked Cheddar, grated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the topping:
- 600g floury potatoes, e.g. Desiree or Maris Piper, peeled
- 75g Applewood Smoked Cheddar, grated
Method:
- Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Peel and cut the potatoes in half and simmer in salted water until just tender.
- Meanwhile, make the cheese sauce. Add the butter and flour to a small pan, heat gently and gradually add in the cold milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Add the grated Applewood and stir until the cheese has melted. Season and set aside.
- Cut the fish into bite-size pieces and place in a large bowl. Add prawns, cornichons, capers, and parsley. Stir in the cheese sauce and then carefully transfer the fish mixture into a large ovenproof dish.
- When the potatoes are cooked, drain and allow to cool until cool enough to handle. Cut each potato into thick slices. Arrange over the fish mixture and sprinkle over the grated Applewood.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the fish is cooked and the top is golden brown.
