Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie Recipe: A Comforting Classic

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
IngredientQuantityNotes
Olive oil2 tbspFor sautéing
Onion1 large, dicedAdds flavor to the meat base
Carrots2 medium, dicedAdds sweetness and texture
Celery2 stalks, dicedAdds depth to the vegetable mix
Ground lamb1 lbTraditional choice for Irish shepherd’s pie
Garlic2 cloves, mincedEnhances the flavor
Tomato paste2 tbspAdds richness to the meat sauce
Beef broth1 cupFor a moist, flavorful filling
Worcestershire sauce1 tbspAdds a savory depth
Fresh thyme1 tspTraditional herb for seasoning
Fresh rosemary1 tspAdds a fragrant, earthy flavor
Frozen peas1/2 cupFor color and additional texture
Salt and pepperTo tasteFor seasoning
Potatoes2 lbsPeeled and cut for mashed topping
Butter4 tbspAdds creaminess to mashed potatoes
Milk1/2 cupFor creamy mashed potatoes
Salt1/2 tspTo season the potatoes

Irish Shepherd’s Pie recipe Instructions:

  1. 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.
  2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender. Mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  3. 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:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories420 kcal
Protein25g
Fat18g
Carbohydrates40g

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!

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