Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd's Pie Recipe with Pork Tenderloin

Shepherd's Pie is a classic recipe that perfectly combines the rich flavors of meat with the creaminess of mashed potatoes. This recipe was inspired by dear cook Dia and promises to bring a touch of comfort to any meal. Although traditionally made with lamb, we will use pork tenderloin, but you can experiment with any type of meat you prefer - chicken, turkey, or even beef. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a party.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 700 g pork tenderloin
- 2 dried onions
- 4 green onions
- 4 carrots
- 1 fresh tomato
- 200 g canned tomatoes
- 2 garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 600 g potatoes
- 100 ml milk
- 50 g butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the meat
- Start by washing the pork tenderloin under cold water. Make sure it is well dried before cutting. Use a kitchen towel to pat it dry. Cut the meat into cubes of about 2 cm.

2. Preparing the vegetables
- Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds. Peel, wash, and finely chop the dried onion. Wash the green onions, chop the white part finely, and slice the green tops into rounds.
- Peel the fresh tomato and cut it into slices. Chop the canned tomatoes into cubes.

3. Preparing the meat mixture
- In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the dried onion and, after a minute, add the pork tenderloin cubes. Sear the meat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle with sweet paprika and mix well. Add the carrots and cover the meat with water. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the meat is halfway cooked (about 20 minutes).
- Finally, add the green onion tops, fresh tomato, and canned tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 3-4 boils, then take the pot off the heat.
- Peel the garlic, crush it, and add it to the meat mixture. Transfer everything to a baking dish.

4. Preparing the mashed potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and boil them in salted water. When they are well cooked (about 20-25 minutes), drain them.
- In a bowl, add the potatoes, milk, and butter, and mash until you get a smooth and creamy puree. Adjust the taste with salt if necessary.

5. Assembling the Shepherd's Pie
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, spread the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture in the baking dish, ensuring an even distribution to form a delicious crust.

6. Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the mashed potatoes turn golden and beautifully browned.

7. Serving
- After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for added flavor and color. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables.

Practical Tips

- Meat variations: If you're not a fan of pork tenderloin, you can use any meat you prefer. Chicken or turkey cooks quickly and is lighter, while beef offers a deeper flavor.
- Mashed potatoes: For extra flavor, you can add grated cheddar cheese to the mash. A dash of freshly grated nutmeg can also work wonders!
- Added vegetables: You can enrich the meat mixture with vegetables such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms to add texture and nutrients.

Nutritional Information

This Shepherd's Pie recipe with pork tenderloin contains approximately 450 calories per serving, providing a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Pork tenderloin is a good source of protein and vitamin B, while mashed potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent and very convenient option. Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the meat mixture.

2. Can it be prepared in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and mashed potatoes a day ahead and assemble and bake them on the day you want to serve.

3. What can I serve with Shepherd's Pie?
- This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or sautéed vegetables. A craft beer or a light red wine can perfectly complement the meal.

Shepherd's Pie is more than just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your meal!