Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- Ground lamb: 500 grams (or substitute with ground beef for Cottage Pie)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 sticks, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Beef or lamb stock: 1 cup
- Fresh rosemary: 1 teaspoon, chopped
- Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon, chopped
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes: 900 grams, peeled and chopped
- Butter: 85 grams
- Milk: 1/3 cup
- Cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (optional)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Add the ground lamb and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, mix in grated cheddar cheese.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create ridges on the surface for a crispy texture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve:
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Customize the Vegetables: Add mushrooms, corn, or green beans for variety.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with lentils or a mix of mushrooms and use vegetable stock.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the filling for extra heat.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its rich, savory filling and creamy potato topping make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to be a hit! Let me know if you’d like more tips or pairing suggestions. 😊