Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 large fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground lamb until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped fennel, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the frozen peas, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Spread the lamb and fennel mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top of the lamb and fennel mixture, spreading it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes.
8. Bake the shepherd's pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
9. Let the shepherd's pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 950mg
Sugar: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef or turkey can be used instead of lamb.
- Leeks or celery can be used instead of fennel.
- Chicken broth can be used instead of beef broth.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots or sweet potatoes to the filling.
- Use sweet potato mash instead of regular mashed potatoes.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese instead of Parmesan.
Tips and tricks:
- Make the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save time.
- Use a potato masher or ricer to make smooth mashed potatoes.
- Use a slotted spoon to drain any excess liquid from the filling before adding the mashed potatoes.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the shepherd's pie in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the shepherd's pie in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the shepherd's pie before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with almonds
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the filling is too watery, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
- 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.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Shepherd's pie is a traditional British dish that dates back to the 18th century. It was originally made with leftover roasted meat and mashed potatoes.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a savory and hearty flavor, with notes of fennel, rosemary, and Parmesan cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the shepherd's pie with a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Related Categories
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Region: British
Taste: Savory, Herby, Earthy, Rich, Comforting