BBC-Inspired Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Introduction

Shepherd's Pie is the epitome of British comfort food. This hearty dish features a savory meaty filling, typically made with ground lamb, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It's a satisfying meal that's perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. In this recipe, we'll guide you through making a Shepherd's Pie that will transport you to the cozy kitchens of Britain.

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Ingredients

For the Filling:

1 lb ground lamb (you can also use ground beef)

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup frozen peas

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for cooking

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preparing the Filling:

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Stir in the tomato paste and flour. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens.

Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove it from heat and set it aside.

2. Preparing the Mashed Potato Topping:

Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add the butter and milk to the pot. Mash the potatoes until they are creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling and Baking:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Spoon the meat filling into a baking dish.

Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the filling, creating a smooth layer.

You can use a fork to create decorative lines on the potato topping if you like.

4. Baking and Serving:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Remove the Shepherd's Pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Dish out generous portions and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.

Tips for a Perfect Shepherd's Pie

Feel free to add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for an extra layer of flavor and a golden, cheesy crust.

Shepherd's Pie is a versatile dish. You can use leftover roast meat or vegetarian alternatives like lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free version.

This dish reheats well, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Now, you have a BBC-inspired Shepherd's Pie recipe that's sure to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. Enjoy this delicious taste of British comfort food!