Description: This Achill Island–inspired smoked pollock bake is a warm, creamy coastal dish with flaky smoked fish, tender potatoes, and a golden topping. It’s comforting like a fish pie, but baked in a simpler, casserole-style format—perfect with greens and Irish brown bread.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4–6
Ingredients
Bake
- 500g smoked pollock, flaked into chunks
- 700g potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 600ml milk
- 150ml cream
- 1 tsp wholegrain mustard
- 1 bay leaf
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped parsley or chives
Topping
- 60g breadcrumbs
- 40g butter, melted
- 60g Irish cheddar, grated
- Optional: pinch of paprika
Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Butter a large baking dish.
Step 2 – Make the Cream Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan. Add onion and cook gently for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add bay leaf and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken. Stir in cream and mustard, then season with black pepper.
Step 3 – Layer the Bake
Layer half the sliced potatoes in the dish. Spoon over half the sauce and scatter over half the smoked pollock. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and fish. Sprinkle herbs if using.
Step 4 – Add the Topping
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated cheddar. Sprinkle evenly over the top (add paprika if using).
Step 5 – Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 minutes more until bubbling and golden, and the potatoes are tender.
Step 6 – Serve
Rest for 10 minutes before serving so it slices neatly.
Tips
- Salt carefully: Smoked pollock can be salty, so taste the sauce before adding any salt.
- Extra richness: Add a handful of peas or leeks for a fuller bake.
- Thicker sauce: Simmer a little longer before layering if you prefer a firmer slice.
- Make-ahead: Assemble up to 1 day ahead and bake when needed.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with buttered greens, peas, or cabbage, plus Irish brown bread for a true coastal comfort meal.
