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Traditional Cottage Pie

Mum's Traditional Cottage Pie: A Cozy Comfort Food Classic

Enjoy Mum's Traditional Cottage Pie, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: British
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 500 grams Lean Minced Beef Substitute with ground lamb or turkey for a twist.
  • 1 medium Onion Enhances flavor and texture; shallots or leeks offer a milder taste.
  • 2 medium Carrots Add sweetness and color; replace with parsnips for variety.
  • 150 grams Peas Consider green beans or corn as alternatives.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Puree Opt for canned diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Use gluten-free for dietary needs.
  • 250 milliliters Beef Stock Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
For the Mashed Potato Topping
  • 1 kilogram Starchy Potatoes Yukon Gold or Russets are ideal.
  • 50 grams Butter Substitute with olive oil for dairy-free.
  • 100 milliliters Milk Substitute with almond milk for dairy-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme or Parsley Dried herbs can be used if fresh isn’t available.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Pot for Boiling

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by finely chopping the onions and carrots. Set aside in a bowl.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean minced beef, browning it for about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped onions and carrots, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  4. Mix in the tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock, bringing to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. Once thickened, stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  6. Peel and chop the starchy potatoes, boiling them for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  7. Drain the potatoes and mash with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish and spoon the creamy mashed potatoes on top.
  9. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for about 20 minutes.
  10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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