Here’s a classic recipe for Shepherd’s Pie:
Ingredients:
For the filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (can substitute with ground beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the mashed potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the mashed potatoes: 1.1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. 1.2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 15-20 minutes). 1.3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. 1.4. Add butter and milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Prepare the filling: 2.1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2.2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. 2.3. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 2.4. Add the garlic, carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes. 2.5. Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. 2.6. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. 2.7. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, until the mixture has thickened slightly. 2.8. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Assemble the pie: 3.1. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 3.2. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a pattern on the top if desired. 3.3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: 4.1. Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. 4.2. Enjoy your homemade Shepherd’s Pie!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients according to your taste. Enjoy your meal!