Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie

Dewdropdeb's Note:

Posting this per a request. I've said it once and I'll say it again there is nothing Irish about Corned Beef and Cabbage, but Shepherd's Pie has always been and still is a staple of traditional Irish cooking. This is a really easy, but tasty recipe that the whole family will enjoy. It's nutritionally sound with all the major food groups represented. The British use lamb in their Shepherd's Pie, but we've always used beef. Do whatever you prefer or even try turkey if you're watching fat content. This sauce is lovely and rich and should go well with any meat. You can use fresh or leftover mashed potato. I usually use 3 tbsp of ketchup instead of the 2tbsp of tomato paste as I like the hint of sweetness, but traditionally the paste would be more sound! You can also make individual pies which are always a hit with the kids. This freezes beautifully too, so make two and save one! Just let it defrost and glaze with the egg and pop into the oven as directed. Enjoy! :)

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 4-6

Yield: 1.0 pie

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lb ground beef or 1 lb lamb
• 1 large onion , finely diced
• 3 -4 large carrots , finely diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 -4 sprigs fresh thyme , finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 glass red wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup stock
• 1 large quantity mashed potatoes (estimating 1L or 6 cups, fresh or leftover)
• 1 egg , beaten
• grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 200C/400°F.
2. Saute carrots in the olive oil until starting to get tender.
3. Add in the onions and saute for a minute or two then add the meat.
4. Season with black pepper and thyme.
5. Cook until browned then drain fat.
6. Add the butter and peas.
7. Sprinkle with flour and stir through.
8. Add tomato paste, wine and Worcestershire sauce.
9. Let this reduce slightly then add the chicken stock. Allow to reduce down until you have a thick meaty gravy. Season to your taste.
10. Remove from heat. Grease an oven proof dish** (9x13 works for me, as does an oval baker) with butter and add the sauce.
11. Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes over top. Brush with egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
12. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the potato is nice and browned on top.
13. Serve as is or with some crusty bread to mop up that yummy sauce!

Reviews

[msbabette]

I must say...this recipe is HIGHLY recommended to all. I am a very particular about recipes; but THIS ONE IS A KEEPER. I used all the ingredients mentioned in the recipe as well as followed all of the instructions. The only thing that I did different, not on purpose, was use White Zinfandel wine, instead of red wine (I didn't have any red wine and didn't feel like driving down the mountain to get it when I had everything else cooking--lol). Unless you like that kind of wine, don't use it. When I buy more red wine, I will try it--so I could decided which one is best. Also, it really makes a difference when you season your potatoes and get them into a semi-creamy texture with butter and canned milk. Whip on HIGH with hand mixer. Just a thought, if you haven't tried it that way. : )

[gailanng]

Looks like all the good comments have already been taken. :-)

[AngelaKL77]

Excellent comfort food for a cool fall evening! I substituted a can of french cut green beans for the peas, used dried thyme and put some shredded cheese on top of the potatoes. It turned out delicious!