Cottage pie (mashed potato pie)

Cottage Pie, also known as shepherd's pie, is a traditional British dish, perfect for family meals. This comforting dish combines a delicious mix of minced meat with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It is a simple yet impressive recipe that will bring warmth and flavor to any home. Additionally, it is an excellent way to use leftover meat.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients for cottage pie:

For the filling:
- 500 g minced beef or lamb (or a combination)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 g frozen or fresh peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 250 ml beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon herbs (thyme or rosemary)

For the mashed potatoes:
- 800 g potatoes, peeled and diced
- 100 ml milk
- 50 g butter
- 1 egg (optional, for a richer texture)
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Start by preparing the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Boil for 15-20 minutes until soft. Make sure not to overboil them to avoid a watery texture.

2. When the potatoes are ready, drain the water and add the warm milk and diced butter. Use a mixer or a masher to mash them until creamy. If you want a richer mash, you can also add the beaten egg, mixing well. Season with salt to taste.

3. While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the filling. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

4. Add the carrots and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes. Then, add the minced meat and sauté until browned evenly. It is important to break the meat into small pieces for a pleasant texture.

5. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, peas, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a baking dish, pour in the meat and vegetable filling, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then, cover with the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly with a spatula or a fork for a rustic look.

7. Bake the cottage pie in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the mash is golden and crispy on top. If you want an even browner crust, you can use the grill function in the last 5 minutes.

8. Serve the cottage pie hot, alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a tomato sauce or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Variation suggestion: For a vegetarian version, replace the minced meat with a mix of mushrooms and lentils. You can also experiment by adding various vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.

Thus, cottage pie is not only a comforting dish but also a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to preferences. I guarantee it will quickly become a family favorite!