Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved Irish dish, perfect for cold days when you crave a comforting, hearty meal. Traditionally made with lamb, vegetables, and a rich gravy, then topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is a true taste of Ireland.
Irish Shepherd’s Pie recipe Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary to taste
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
Onion | 1 large, diced | Adds flavor to the meat base |
Carrots | 2 medium, diced | Adds sweetness and texture |
Celery | 2 stalks, diced | Adds depth to the vegetable mix |
Ground lamb | 1 lb | Traditional choice for Irish shepherd’s pie |
Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Enhances the flavor |
Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | Adds richness to the meat sauce |
Beef broth | 1 cup | For a moist, flavorful filling |
Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | Adds a savory depth |
Fresh thyme | 1 tsp | Traditional herb for seasoning |
Fresh rosemary | 1 tsp | Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor |
Frozen peas | 1/2 cup | For color and additional texture |
Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
Potatoes | 2 lbs | Peeled and cut for mashed topping |
Butter | 4 tbsp | Adds creaminess to mashed potatoes |
Milk | 1/2 cup | For creamy mashed potatoes |
Salt | 1/2 tsp | To season the potatoes |
Irish Shepherd’s Pie recipe Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: Sauté the lamb with onions and carrots until browned. Add tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Simmer for 15 minutes, adding peas at the end.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender. Mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the meat mixture into a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and smooth evenly. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until golden.
Irish Shepherd’s Pie recipe Nutritional Information:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 25g |
Fat | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 40g |
Why You’ll Love This Irish Shepherd’s Pie recipe
- Authentic Flavor: Made with traditional Irish ingredients.
- Comfort Food: Rich, savory, and filling, ideal for family meals.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make it suitable even for beginners.
Conclusion:
The Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish filled with history and rich flavors that bring warmth to any table. The combination of savory lamb, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a satisfying and hearty experience that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This classic recipe is a tribute to Irish culinary tradition, showcasing simple ingredients transformed into a nourishing, delicious dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it during a festive occasion, Shepherd’s Pie is sure to bring a sense of comfort and joy. Give it a try and experience the timeless appeal of this Irish favorite!