Anhui-style Stargazy Pie

Ingredients

In this Anhui-style adaptation, the traditional British Stargazy Pie is transformed by incorporating Anhui cuisine's distinct flavors and ingredients. The original recipe's emphasis on potatoes and eggs is replaced with Anhui-style seasonings, such as fermented black beans, ginger, garlic, and Shaoxing wine. Additionally, the fish used in the filling is changed to carp or mandarin fish, which are commonly found in Anhui cuisine. The presentation of fish heads poking through the pastry remains, paying homage to the original dish's unique visual appeal. We alse have the original recipe for Stargazy Pie, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) carp or mandarin fish fillets 500g (1.1 lb) carp or mandarin fish fillets
• 2 tablespoons fermented black beans 2 tablespoons fermented black beans
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 sheet puff pastry 1 sheet puff pastry
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the fermented black beans, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, vegetable oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
3. 3.
   Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in the prepared marinade for 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheet and line a pie dish with it, leaving some excess pastry hanging over the edges.
5. 5.
   Pour the marinated fish and marinade into the pastry-lined dish.
6. 6.
   Fold the excess pastry over the top of the pie, creating a rustic crust.
7. 7.
   Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
8. 8.
   Serve the Anhui-style Stargazy Pie hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Carp or mandarin fish — Ensure the fish fillets are fresh and free from any bones before marinating them. If these fish varieties are not available, you can substitute with other firm white fish like cod or haddock.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add some sliced spring onions or cilantro to the marinade.
• Serve the pie with a side of steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a small amount of chili paste or chili oil to the marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Anhui-style Stargazy Pie hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

To showcase the unique "stargazy" presentation, ensure that the fish heads are visible through the pastry crust. Arrange them in a way that creates an eye-catching display.