Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie 🥧🇮🇪

Shepherd's Pie is a classic Irish dish, renowned for its hearty flavors and comforting textures. This recipe features a rich filling of seasoned ground lamb (or beef, if you prefer) topped with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. It's a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Pair it with a pint of stout or a crisp salad for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

For the filling

• 1 lb ground lamb (or ground beef)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the mashed potatoes

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the beef broth and continue to simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken.
   • Stir in the peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the mashed potatoes:

   • Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well.
   • In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter until the butter melts.
   • Mash the drained potatoes and mix in the warm cream and butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the pie:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spoon the meat filling into a greased baking dish. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly with a spatula or fork to create peaks.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

4. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

🍽️ This Shepherd's Pie is best enjoyed piping hot straight out of the oven. The rich filling and fluffy potatoes create a delightful combination that will leave you satisfied!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with lentils or a mix of your favorite mushrooms and add chopped bell peppers for a hearty and flavorful filling.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy: Stir in a handful of grated cheese (like cheddar) into the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
• Herbed Potatoes: Mix in some chopped chives or green onions into the mashed potatoes for an added layer of flavor.

Enjoy your Traditional Irish Shepherd's Pie, a comforting classic that's sure to warm the hearts of all who gather around the table! 🥰🥮