Difference between revisions of "Shepherds pie"

Revision as of 17:50, 6 July 2008

Classic shepherd's pie

Classic shepherd's pie - about this recipe

We guarantee that this classic shepherds pie recipe won't leave you feeling sheepish!

If you prefer a more spicy version, try our shepherd's pie with spicy lamb and pine nuts instead.

Servings

Serves 4

Ingredients

• Filling
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 500 g (1.10 lb) lean minced lamb
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, grated
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 250 ml (0.43 pint - 8.45 fl oz) red wine
  • 300 ml (0.52 pint - 10.10 fl oz) good chicken
• stock
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary leave, chopped finely
  • 1 tablespoon tomato puree
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Topping'
  • 1 kg Desiree potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 50 g (2 oz) butter
  • 2 egg yolks
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Handful of freshly chopped parsley
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180° C (350° F - Gas 4 - moderate)
2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan, season the mince and brown on a high heat for 3 minutes - I find a large wok good for this as it seems to be easier to get very hot for reducing liquids
3. Add the grated onion, grated carrot and the garlic and fry for a few more minutes
4. Add the herbs, Worcestershire sauce, tomato puree and mix well
5. Turn the heat up and add the red wine, stirring well until the wine reduces
6. Add the chicken stock reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes
7. Boil the potatoes until cooked (about XXXXXXX) minutes
8. Drain well and mash, using a potato ricer if you like your mash really smooth
9. Whisk the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix into the mash, season to taste
10. Pour the mince into a large ovenproof dish
11. Add the mash topping a spoonful at a time
12. Fluff the mash with a fork and grate a little more Parmesan over the top. Dot 2 teaspoons of butter evenly over the top.
13. Bake for 20 minutes
14. If you like the top really crispy, brown under a grill

Serving suggestions

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with minty peas.