Shepherd's pie

Shepherd's Pie – a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish, perfect for cool evenings or bringing warmth to the hearts of loved ones. This recipe combines savory meat, fresh vegetables, and a smooth mashed potato topping, making it an excellent choice for family meals, carrying with it a rich history and culinary traditions that date back in time.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the meat filling:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 3 carrots, grated
- 1.4 kg ground lamb or mutton
- 3 tablespoons tomato puree
- 250 ml chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 130 ml red wine
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
- 4-5 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the mashed potatoes:
- 1.3 kg potatoes
- 150 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 3 egg yolks
- 70 g freshly grated parmesan
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: approximately 550 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: Lamb is a good source of protein, and potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat filling:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan (ideally a wok). Add the ground meat and sauté over medium heat. Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

2. Adding the vegetables:
Once the meat starts to brown, add the grated onion, carrot, and garlic. Continue to cook the ingredients together, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Seasoning the filling:
Now is the time to add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato puree, and red wine. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the wine has partially evaporated and everything is well integrated.

4. Finishing the filling:
Add the thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth. Let it simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This aromatic filling is the heart of your pie and will bring a savory taste to every serving.

5. Preparing the mashed potatoes:
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water until soft (about 15-20 minutes). Once cooked, drain them well and mash until smooth.

6. Adding ingredients to the mash:
Add the butter, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan to the mashed potatoes, mixing well to achieve a creamy consistency and rich flavor. Save a handful of parmesan to sprinkle on top.

7. Assembling the pie:
In a baking dish, add the meat mixture, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then, cover it with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface well. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top for a golden, crispy crust.

8. Baking the pie:
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the mash is golden and slightly crispy on the surface. It's the perfect moment to enjoy the delicious aroma wafting throughout the house.

Serving suggestions:
Shepherd's Pie is served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or pickles for a delightful contrast. You can also add a yogurt or sour cream sauce for an extra creaminess.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and various vegetables, such as zucchini and eggplant. Additionally, for an even more intense flavor, add spices like cumin or smoked paprika.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to cover it well to prevent excessive freezing.

A personal detail:
This Shepherd's Pie recipe reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, when each of us contributed to the kitchen. Every ingredient was chosen with care, and the final result was always a reason for joy and gratitude. I invite you to enjoy this recipe and give it a personal touch by adding your favorite ingredients!

Try this Shepherd's Pie recipe and let yourself be carried away by flavors and pleasant memories!