Cassava and Fish Pie Recipe: A Caribbean Comfort Food

8.1.25 | Recipe by Renz


When it comes to comfort food, pies, and casseroles stand out for their ability to transform humble ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Today, we're diving into the rich and hearty world of cassava and fish pie—a dish that brings Caribbean flavors to the forefront while offering warmth and nourishment.

   
A slice of cassava and fish pie on a white bowl with a baking dish of fish casserole in the background.


This recipe combines fresh cassava, a root vegetable beloved in Caribbean cuisine, with tender codfish and aromatic seasonings. The result? A creamy, savory pie that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a standout dish for potlucks. 

And if you are a cassava lover, make sure to check out some cassava pone and cassava dumplings.

   

Why You'll Love This Recipe


This pie is everything you want in a comforting dish. First off, it’s packed with those bold, vibrant Caribbean flavors we all love! Cassava gives it that perfect creamy texture, and the flaked fish adds just the right amount of savory goodness.

Don’t have fresh cassava? No problem. Frozen or pre-mashed cassava works just as well, so you can enjoy this dish even when you’re short on time. And let’s talk about that cheesy topping—melty and golden.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this pie is bound to be a hit. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Key Ingredients and Their Importance


   
Ingredients needed to make Cassava and pie fish laid out.


  • Cassava: The star of this dish, cassava lends a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. It's boiled with a hint of vinegar to retain its subtle sweetness and soften its fibrous texture.
  • Fresh Codfish: Cooked and flaked, codfish provides a savory, flaky contrast to the starchy cassava. Salted water enhances its natural flavors.
  • Herbs and Aromatics: A mix of onions, sweet peppers, garlic, scotch bonnet, chives, pimento peppers if you have, and thyme gives this pie its signature Caribbean flavor profile.
  • Cheese Topping: A light sprinkle of grated cheese adds a golden, savory crust, making every bite irresistible.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Perfect Cassava Pie with Fish


1. Prepare the Cassava Base


Wash, peel, and cut the cassava into 2-inch rounds. Boil in lightly salted water with a touch of vinegar until tender. Remove the tough inner strings and drain well. You can cut it after boiling if using frozen cassava.

   
Cassava in a deep dish in water to boil.

2. Cook the Fish


Simmer the codfish in salted water until it flakes easily. Remove it from the pan, let cool slightly, and flake into small pieces.

  
Cod fish being boiled till tender then shredded into small pieces.

3. Build the Flavor


Sauté the onions, sweet peppers, garlic, scotch bonnet, chive, and thyme in a mix of olive oil and butter. Add the flaked fish and stir in the cornstarch. Cook until the mixture thickens.

   
Aromatics being sauteed then shredded cod fish incorporated.


4. Combine and Assemble


In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cassava, fish mixture, and seasonings. Mix well to ensure every bite is flavorful. Transfer to a buttered baking dish and sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.


   
Combined boiled cassava and fish with aromatics in pot.


5. Bake to Perfection


Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

   
Casssava and fish pie added to baking dish then covered with shredded cheese.



Serving and Pairing


Serve this cassava and fish pie as a main dish alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. It's also perfect on its own for a satisfying meal.

   
Cheesy baked cassava and fish pie in a casserole dish.


Tips for Success


  • Using Frozen or Pre-Mashed Cassava: Put frozen cassava into boiling water. Pre-mashed cassava can be warmed and adjusted for consistency.
  • Handling Scotch Bonnet: Use gloves when handling to avoid irritation, and adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
  • Make Ahead: This pie can be assembled and refrigerated before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.

Related Recipes


Looking for more Caribbean-inspired pies? Check out these recipes:


   

A slice of cassava and fish pie in a creamy bowl.


Bring the flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen with this comforting cassava and fish pie. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, it’s sure to be a hit!

Did you try this recipe?


I’d love to hear how your cassava and fish pie turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to leave a star rating to let others know how much you enjoyed it. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family—let’s spread the Caribbean flavors together! 






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