Stargazy pie – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Stargazy Pie is a traditional Cornish dish that originates from the fishing village of Mousehole in Cornwall, England. It dates back to the 16th century and is renowned for its striking appearance, with fish heads protruding through the pastry crust, said to symbolize fishermen gazing at the stars in hope of a good catch. This pie, often prepared with pilchards or sardines, is typically served during the winter festival of Tom Bawcock’s Eve to celebrate a legendary local hero fisherman.
Ingredients
- Sardines (whole, cleaned) – 6 large
- Shortcrust pastry – 500 g / 17.5 oz
- Potatoes (peeled and sliced) – 2 medium
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 large
- Eggs (beaten) – 2
- Milk – 200 ml / 7 fl oz
- Parsley (chopped) – 2 tbsp
- Butter – 50 g / 1.75 oz
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Lemon (sliced) – 1
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F.
- Boil potatoes until tender, drain and slice.
- Sauté onion in butter until soft.
- Roll out half of the pastry and line the pie dish.
- Layer potatoes and onions in the pastry case.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle parsley.
- Arrange the sardines heads through the pastry, tails inside.
- Pour beaten eggs and milk over the fish and vegetables.
- Roll out remaining pastry, cover pie and crimp edges.
- Cut small slits for fish heads to poke through.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with lemon slices on the side.
Substitutions
- Sardines -> Mackerel or pilchards
- Shortcrust pastry -> Puff pastry
- Parsley -> Dill or chives
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a layer of creamy leeks for additional flavor.
- Incorporate smoked bacon bits for extra richness.
- Use herbed pastry for enhanced taste.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
