How to Make Fish Pie Sauce: An Exclusive Guide for BBQ Enthusiasts
Written By Avi Green
If there is one thing every barbecue enthusiast knows, it's that the right sauce can make or break a dish. Whether you're grilling fish, tossing shrimp on the barbie, or whipping up a delicious fish pie, the sauce is what brings everything together. In this exclusive guide, we'll dive deep into how to make fish pie sauce. This sauce isn't just fit for fish pie but can also be a game-changer for your barbecue dishes.
Ingredients for Fish Pie Sauce
Understanding the basics is essential, and knowing the ingredients that make up a perfect fish pie sauce is the right place to start. Here's what you'll need:
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Fish stock or vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh dill
- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Lemon zest
- Heavy cream
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fish Pie Sauce
1. Preparing the Roux
Start by melting a generous tablespoon of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add an equal amount of all-purpose flour. The goal is to create a smooth paste, known as a roux, which will be the thickening agent for your sauce.
2. Adding the Liquid
Slowly add milk to the roux while constantly stirring. You want to avoid any lumps from forming. Gradually, add fish stock or vegetable stock to the mixture. Stir continuously to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Seasoning the Sauce
Season your sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest. This will give your sauce a burst of flavor, making it the perfect companion for your fish pie or grilled fish dishes.
4. Final Touch with Herbs
Add fresh dill and parsley into the mixture, followed by a splash of heavy cream. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken up.
Pro Tips for Barbecue Enthusiasts
While the fish pie sauce is magnificent on its own, there are ways to tweak it, especially if you're keen on BBQ.
- Smoked Fish Stock: Use smoked fish stock instead of regular fish stock to impart a deep, smoky flavor to your sauce.
- Grilled Lemon Zest: Grill the lemon before zesting to add unique charred notes to your sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for an extra kick that pairs wonderfully with grilled fish.
How this Sauce Elevates BBQ
One might wonder why a fish pie sauce would be of interest to a barbecue enthusiast. The blending of herbs, creamy texture, and rich flavors create a versatile sauce that stands out in various applications. Whether you're brushing it over grilled salmon or serving it as a dip for shrimp skewers, this fish pie sauce can elevate your BBQ to the next level.
For more on how to use different sauces in your BBQ dishes, check out these lemon butter fish sauce recipe and sweet fish sauce guides on our blog.
FAQ
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What kind of fish stock should I use?
For a smoky flavor, use smoked fish stock. Alternatively, vegetable stock works well too.
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Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before use.
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What if the sauce is too thick?
Simply add a bit more milk or stock to thin it out to your desired consistency.
For more insights on fish sauces, you can visit this guide on Real Simple.
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