Ireland > Shepherd Pies

Cais Dubh Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet, cook ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.

4. Add carrots and celery and cook until vegetables are tender.

5. Stir in cooked lamb, frozen peas, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Transfer mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.

7. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the lamb mixture.

8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
- Serves 6

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be used instead of lamb.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried.

Variations:
- Add grated cheddar cheese to the mashed potatoes before baking.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for the topping.
- Add a layer of cooked sliced mushrooms to the lamb mixture.

Tips and tricks:
- Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save time.
- Use a potato masher or ricer to make smooth mashed potatoes.
- Add a splash of milk or cream to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
- Green beans

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin them out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the lamb is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Shepherd's pie is a traditional British dish that dates back to the 18th century.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, meaty, and comforting.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a pint of Guinness for a true Irish experience.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Irish

Taste: Savory, Rich, Meaty, Herbal, Comforting