Savoury Skagen Pie

The Savoury Skagen Pie is a delightful fusion of traditional Swedish flavors with a modern twist. Originating from the classic Toast Skagen, a staple in Swedish seafood cuisine, this pie offers a deeper exploration into the textures and richness of flavors. Named after a fishing port town, Skagen emphasizes the significance of seafood in Swedish culinary traditions.

History of the Dish

Toast Skagen was invented in the 1950s by a famous Swedish chef Tore Wretman. This dish is popular due to its simplicity and luxurious ingredients, typically served as an appetizer. The Savoury Skagen Pie version was developed more recently, allowing the charming flavors to be enjoyed in a more substantial form, perfect for lunch or as a main course at dinner.

Ingredients

• Shrimp - 300g of peeled and cooked shrimp
• Mayonnaise - 100g, preferably homemade or a good quality alternative
• Sour Cream - 100g for added creaminess
• Dill - Fresh dill, finely chopped, about 3 tablespoons
• Lemon - Juice of 1 lemon
• Caviar - 50g of your choice, to enhance the seafood flavor
• Red Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Pie Crust - Pre-made or homemade pie crust for a 9-inch pie pan
• Salt - To taste
• Black Pepper - Freshly ground, to taste

Preparation

Before starting, ensure you have all your ingredients prepared and organized. This helps streamline the cooking process. You'll also need basic kitchen tools such as a whisk, mixing bowls, a spatula, and a 9-inch pie pan. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

If you're using a pre-made crust, let it thaw to room temperature. For a homemade crust, roll it out to fit your pie pan, pressing it gently into the sides. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling and blind bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Make the Skagen Filling

In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, and the juice of a lemon. Add the red onion and freshly chopped dill. Stir until the ingredients are well blended. Season with salt and black pepper according to taste.

Step 3: Incorporate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the creamy mixture, folding them in gently to avoid breaking them. Ensure each piece is well coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the shrimp filling into the prebaked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Top with caviar for a good balance of flavor.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Consider setting a cooking timer using a cooking timer to ensure the pie is perfectly cooked without being over-baked.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once done, allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh dill and a slice of lemon for a vibrant presentation.

Enjoying the Savoury Skagen Pie

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or chilled sparkling water with lemon slices for a non-alcoholic option. Serve with a side salad of fresh greens tossed with a vinegar-based dressing to balance the richness of the pie.

Perfect for a light lunch with friends or a simple yet elegant dinner, the Savoury Skagen Pie embraces the best of Swedish culinary heritage.