Crab and Shrimp Pot Pie

Mmmmm..... Flaky

Since my mom was coming to visit a few weeks ago I decided to show off my cooking skills by making a crab and shrimp pot pie. I got inspired by Ina Garten’s Lobster pot pie on Barefoot Contessa. I decided to make a more dollar conscious, but still equally seafood friendly, option. Here’s the link to Ina’s recipe:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/lobster-pot-pie-recipe/index.html

I had to make a few adjustments to the recipe to fit my tastes. I didn’t use fennel because, as hip as it is now to use fennel in everything, I hate licorice and haven’t jumped on the bandwagon yet. So in place of fennel I used celery. I didn’t cut the celery too fine because I wanted to be able to bite into it. I also couldn’t find fish stock so I used vegetable stock.  I cut the recipe in half to serve 2 and didn’t include the Pernod (I’m sure Ina would not approve). I used lump crab and shrimp because it was easier to find (and less expensive) and threw it in the pan to cook for a minute or two before pouring in the ramekins.

Finally, I don’t have a mixer, (the space in my studio for an electronic mixer, or the god-given abilities to make baked goods) so I did the unthinkable… I used puff pastry. I know that Ina would be very disappointed (and that Sandra Lee wouldn’t understand why), but if it hadn’t turned out so well I would have been disappointed in myself too… but it was great!

I completely understand that home-made pastry in this recipe would have made a huge difference- instead of a flaky crust it would have been crumbly- but you’ve got to work with the hand you’re dealt. Also, seasoning the puff pastry with salt and pepper gave the pastry such a new twist. It all turned out better than great- it was filling without being too much, and it was a really great comfort food that was really simple to make.

Ultimately- I ended up making the pot pie for my boyfriend. The night I planned to make the pot pie for my mom,  she came over with visitors: My 2 little cousins! I made them my turkey meatballs. Later in the week when I sent the pics of the pot pie to my mom she said “Why didn’t you make that while I was there?”. I explained the situation and all she had to say was “mmm-hmmm”.

….. Maybe another time Mom…