Shepherd's Pie, a traditional British dish, is the epitome of comfort food. It features a flavorful ground lamb (or beef) layer topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is not only hearty and filling but also relatively easy to prepare, making it a great option for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb. ground lamb (or ground beef)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 3 small or 2 big carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Meat Filling
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground lamb or beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetables, stirring to coat.
- Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Mashed Potatoes
- In a large pot, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk, butter, nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the meat mixture in an even layer in a baking dish.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out in an even layer.
Step 4: Bake the Shepherd's Pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are lightly browned and the edges are bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Note:
- You can add cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor, or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Shepherd's Pie is a standalone dish and can be served with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat filling.
- If you prefer a crustier potato topping, you can use a fork to create ridges on the mashed potatoes before baking.
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion: Easy Shepherd's Pie is a classic dish that's sure to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Its combination of savory meat and creamy mashed potatoes makes it a complete and satisfying meal that's loved by both adults and children alike.
Explore More Traditional British Recipes at recipesen.com
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