Himmel und Erde Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Potato masher
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with milk and butter. Set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
4. Add ground beef, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
5. Add beef broth and frozen peas and carrots. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Spread applesauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Pour beef mixture on top of applesauce.
8. Spread mashed potatoes on top of beef mixture.
9. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of mashed potatoes.
10. Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 10g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Frozen peas and carrots can be substituted with any frozen mixed vegetables.
- Applesauce can be substituted with mashed sweet potatoes or pumpkin puree.

Variations:
- Add diced apples to the beef mixture for extra sweetness.
- Use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter twist.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the potatoes well before mashing to avoid a watery consistency.
- Use a potato ricer for extra smooth mashed potatoes.
- Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored 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 with chopped parsley or green onions for added color.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with garlic and lemon
- Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mashed potatoes are too dry, add more milk or butter.
- If the beef mixture is too watery, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
Himmel und Erde, which translates to "Heaven and Earth," is a traditional German dish made with mashed potatoes and applesauce. Shepherd's Pie is a classic British dish made with ground beef and mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the two for a unique twist on two classic dishes.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, sweet, and cheesy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a comforting meal on a cold day.

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Region: German

Taste: Savory, Rich, Comforting, Hearty, Umami