Shepherd's Pie with Lamb

Shepherd's Pie with Lamb Recipe from Scotland

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Shepherd's Pie with Lamb is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty dish is made with a savory lamb filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.

History

Shepherd's Pie originated in the United Kingdom and Ireland as a way to use up leftover meat, typically lamb or mutton. The dish was traditionally made with a crust of mashed potatoes on top, which helped to keep the filling moist and flavorful. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include various ingredients and flavors, but the essence of the dish remains the same.

Ingredients

30 g (1 oz) butter
2 onions (finely chopped)
0.25 cup plain flour
1 tsp mustard
1.5 cup chicken stock
800 g (1.75 lb) lean minced (ground) lamb
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
salt
pepper
0.5 cup hot milk
30 g (1 oz) butter
salt
pepper
4 large potatoes, cooked and mashed

How to prepare

Grease an 8 cup capacity casserole dish.
Preheat the oven to 210°C (425°F).
Melt butter in a large pan, add onions and cook until golden brown.
Add flour and mustard to the pan and stir for 1 minute, gradually add the stock and stir constantly until smooth.
Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes.
Add the meat and Worcestershire sauce to the pan and stir.
Season to taste, remove from heat and spoon into the casserole dish.
To make the Potato topping, combine all remaining ingredients, mix until smooth and creamy.
Spread the mixture evenly over the meat and rough up the surface with a fork.
Bake for 45 minutes.
Serves 6.

Variations

Substitute the lamb with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor.
Add diced carrots, peas, or corn to the meat filling for added texture and color.
Top the Shepherd's Pie with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the onions until they are golden brown to bring out their sweetness and flavor.

- Season the meat filling generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine or beef broth to the meat filling.

- To achieve a creamy and smooth mashed potato topping, use hot milk and butter when mashing the potatoes.

- For a crispy top, rough up the surface of the mashed potatoes with a fork before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shepherd's Pie with Lamb with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also pair it with a glass of red wine or a hearty beer for a cozy night in.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.

- Simmer the meat filling to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Bake the Shepherd's Pie until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the hot milk in the mashed potatoes for a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Shepherd's Pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the casserole dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Shepherd's Pie with Lamb in individual ramekins for a stylish presentation. You can also garnish the dish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Shepherd's Pie with Lamb with a robust red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the rich flavors of the dish. You can also enjoy it with a pint of stout or ale for a classic pub-style meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Shepherd's Pie with Lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

450 per serving

Carbohydrates

32g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 24g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 11g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 12% of the daily recommended intake per serving

- Vitamin C: 30% of the daily recommended intake per serving

- Iron: 20% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter, milk)

Summary

Shepherd's Pie with Lamb is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Shepherd's Pie with Lamb is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a savory lamb filling and creamy mashed potato topping, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty meal with a side of steamed vegetables and a glass of red wine for a delicious and satisfying dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Shepherd's Pie with Lamb. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished gathering ingredients from the market. As I flipped through my collection of recipes, I stumbled upon this gem that I had acquired from an old friend many years ago.

The recipe was handwritten on a yellowed piece of paper, with smudges and stains that spoke of years of use and love. It was a simple yet hearty dish, perfect for cozy nights by the fire. I could almost smell the savory aroma of the lamb mingling with the creamy mashed potatoes as I read through the instructions.

I remembered the day I first learned how to make Shepherd's Pie with Lamb. It was many years ago, in a quaint little cottage nestled in the rolling hills of Ireland. I was visiting my dear friend Bridget, who was known far and wide for her delicious cooking. She had graciously agreed to teach me some of her most prized recipes, and Shepherd's Pie was at the top of my list.

Bridget's kitchen was a warm and inviting space, filled with the tantalizing scents of herbs and spices. As she walked me through the steps of making Shepherd's Pie, I listened intently, eager to absorb every detail. She showed me how to brown the lamb until it was perfectly golden, and how to simmer it with onions, carrots, and peas until the flavors melded together in a divine harmony.

I watched as Bridget expertly whipped up a batch of creamy mashed potatoes, adding a generous amount of butter and cream for richness. She spread the mashed potatoes over the lamb mixture in a smooth layer, then popped the whole dish in the oven to bake until the top was golden and crispy.

As the Shepherd's Pie baked, the tantalizing aroma filled the cottage, making my mouth water in anticipation. When Bridget finally pulled the dish out of the oven, the golden crust crackled enticingly as she spooned out generous portions onto our plates.

I took a bite of the Shepherd's Pie and was transported to a world of comfort and warmth. The tender lamb was perfectly seasoned, the vegetables were cooked to perfection, and the creamy mashed potatoes added a luxurious touch. It was a meal that warmed me from the inside out, filling me with a sense of contentment and joy.

From that day on, Shepherd's Pie with Lamb became a staple in my repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Bridget and the magical day we spent together in her kitchen, sharing stories and laughter as we savored each delicious bite.

Now, as I prepare to make Shepherd's Pie with Lamb once again, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back to me. The recipe may have come from a friend, but the love and care that I put into each dish make it truly my own. And as I take the first bite of the savory, comforting meal, I know that the tradition will continue for years to come, passed down to future generations who will savor the taste of home and love in every bite.