Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration for this Salmon and Brie Pie recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a delightful culinary experience in Tasmania, where individual salmon and brie pies are a popular treat.
What type of pastry is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two sheets of pre-rolled shortcrust pastry to achieve a perfectly flaky texture.
How many servings does this pie provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings, making it ideal for a small family dinner or lunch.
What size pie dish should I use?
An 8-inch pie dish is recommended for the quantity of ingredients provided.
Why do I need to blind bake the pastry base?
Blind baking the base for 12 minutes prevents the pastry from becoming soggy and ensures it stays crispy under the creamy filling.
What can I use as weights for blind baking?
You can use professional baking beans, or common pantry items like uncooked rice or lentils.
What temperature is required for the initial bake?
The oven should be preheated to 200°C (392°F) for the initial blind baking step.
How do I make the creamy sauce for the filling?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisking in milk until thickened.
What kind of salmon is used in this pie?
The recipe uses 300g of smoked salmon, specifically chunky off-cuts for a better texture.
How much brie cheese is needed?
You will need 200g of brie cheese, cut into small wedges to ensure even distribution in the filling.
Do I use the whole green onion?
No, the recipe specifies using only the finely sliced green ends of the green onions.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of either fresh or dried dill leaves.
How do I ensure the top of the pie is golden brown?
Brush the top pastry sheet with milk before baking to act as a glaze for a golden finish.
Why should I prick holes in the top pastry?
Small holes allow steam to escape during baking, which prevents the pastry from bursting or becoming soggy.
What are the two baking stages for the final pie?
Bake at 200°C (392°F) for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 180°C (356°F) for an additional 20 minutes.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
One serving of the Salmon and Brie Pie contains 20g of fat.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 12.5g of protein per serving.
What are the carbohydrate levels?
The pie contains 17.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is it necessary to cook the onion before adding it to the pie?
Yes, the onion should be finely diced and sautéed in butter for 3-4 minutes until soft.
Can I use low-fat milk for the filling?
Yes, the recipe allows for either whole or low-fat milk.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is ready when the top pastry has turned a beautiful golden brown.
Should the pie be served hot or cold?
The pie is best enjoyed warm after being allowed to cool slightly for a few minutes.
What side dish pairs well with this savory pie?
A leafy green salad with a lemon-infused olive oil and white wine vinegar dressing is recommended.
Does this recipe require fresh lemon juice?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice are used to brighten the flavor of the filling.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The provided nutritional data indicates there is no significant sugar content in this recipe.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
It is a rich and savory pie with smoky salmon, creamy brie, and fresh herbal notes from dill and green onions.
Can I prepare this for a dinner party?
Absolutely; its gourmet ingredients and golden presentation make it a perfect centerpiece for entertaining.
How long does it take to cook the roux?
After adding flour to the butter, you should cook it for about one minute before adding milk.
What is the total time spent in the oven for the final assembly?
The final pie is baked for a total of 30 minutes across two temperature settings.