Ingredients
For the Meat Mixture:
- Ground lamb: 2 pounds (1kg)
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic cloves: 3, crushed
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp
- Flour: 4 tbsp (30g)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Rosemary: 1 tsp, chopped
- Thyme: 1 tsp, chopped
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp
- Beef broth: 2 cups
- Carrots: 7oz (200g), chopped
- Peas: 7oz (200g), fresh or frozen
For the Puree:
- Potatoes: 3.5 pounds (1.5kg), peeled and cut into quarters
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml)
- Cheddar cheese: 1/4 cup (25g), grated
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Egg yolk: 1
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
- Peeling and Boiling: Peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. Place them in a medium pot and cover with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt, cover, and set over high heat. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Cooking the Meat Mixture
- Sautéing the Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the crushed garlic and chopped carrots, and continue to sauté until the carrots are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cooking the Lamb: Add the ground lamb to the pan. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Seasoning and Thickening: Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of chopped thyme. Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 4 tablespoons of flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Adding Liquids and Peas: Gradually add 2 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously. Add the peas. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Preparing the Mashed Potatoes
- Mashing the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and transfer to a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of butter, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mash until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
Step 4: Assembling the Shepherd’s Pie
- Layering the Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Layer the meat mixture in a 13″x8.5″ (33x22cm) ovenproof dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture, ensuring it reaches the edges to create a seal and prevent the mixture from bubbling over.
- Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 5: Serving
- Cooling and Serving: Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Conclusion
This Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal. The combination of flavorful ground lamb, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes makes this recipe a favorite. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the satisfying textures of this classic dish. Serve hot and enjoy with your loved ones!