Mary Berry Cottage Pie

Name: Mary Berry's Cottage Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: Serves 6
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 750g beef mince; 2 tbsp plain flour; 1 tbsp tomato purée; 300ml beef stock; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1.5 kg potatoes, peeled and chopped; 100ml milk; 50g butter

Mary Berry's Cottage Pie is a classic comfort food dish that embodies the heartiness of traditional British cuisine. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a delicious blend of minced beef covered with a layer of cheesy mashed potatoes.

Mary Berry's Cottage Pie: A Comforting Classic

Cottage Pie, a staple in British comfort food, has a rich history as a simple yet satisfying meal. Originating from the United Kingdom, it traditionally consists of a beef filling topped with mashed potatoes. Mary Berry's version adds a delightful twist with a cheesy topping, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients for Mary Berry's Cottage Pie

For the meat filling:

Minced beef: 750g
Onion (finely chopped), Celery stalk (chopped), Carrot (chopped): Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
Beef stock: 300ml
Tomato puree and Worcestershire sauce: For depth of flavor
Flour: 2 tsp
Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste

For the cheesy potato topping:

Potatoes for mashing: 750g
Mature cheddar cheese (grated): 125g
Butter: 30g
Hot milk (optional): 2 tbsp

Preparation Instructions

Cook the Vegetables and Beef: Begin by sautéing the onion, celery, and carrot in vegetable oil. Add the minced beef, browning it before incorporating the flour, beef stock, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning.
Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and cheese until smooth.
Assemble and Bake: Layer the beef mixture in an oven-proof dish, top with the mashed potatoes, and bake until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Mary Berry's Cottage Pie can be served with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, green beans, peas, or a simple salad. It's a versatile dish that pairs well with many accompaniments.

Storage and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheats well in the oven or microwave. While it's best enjoyed fresh, it can also be frozen for later use, though the texture of the potato topping may change slightly upon reheating.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values can vary, this dish is rich in protein from the beef and provides carbohydrates from the potatoes. The cheese adds calcium but also fat, so consider your portion sizes if you're watching your intake.

FAQ about Mary Berry's Cottage Pie

Can I make a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes, you can substitute the beef with a meat alternative like lentils or a meat-free mince and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

How can I make the potato topping crispier? For a crispier topping, you can place the pie under the broiler for a few minutes after baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Mary Berry's Cottage Pie is a testament to the comfort and simplicity of British home cooking. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a beloved dish for many. Whether you're a long-time fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to please.

Original recipe by Mary Berry, adapted and discussed on The English Kitchen and Rachel's Recipe Pantry.