Mary Berry Shepherds Pie Recipe
Mary Berry's Shepherd's Pie is a quintessential British comfort food, perfect for warming up during the colder months. This beloved dish has two popular variations that Mary Berry herself has crafted: the traditional Shepherd's Pie and the Shepherd’s Pie Dauphinois. Both recipes highlight Mary Berry's ability to take classic dishes and add a twist that elevates them to something special, making them perfect family meals for any occasion.
Mary Berry's Traditional Shepherd's Pie Recipe
Brief Description: The traditional Shepherd's Pie by Mary Berry is a comforting, hearty dish made with minced lamb, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. It's an easy recipe that serves as a perfect meal for family gatherings.
Cultural or Historical Context: Shepherd's Pie is a classic British dish with a long history, traditionally made with lamb (hence "shepherd") and topped with mashed potatoes. Mary Berry's version of this dish stays true to its roots while ensuring a rich, flavorful experience.
Ingredients List:
- Minced lamb (750g)
- Sliced mushrooms (125g)
- Diced carrots (2)
- Chopped large onion (1)
- Crushed garlic clove (1)
- Plain flour (30g)
- Beef stock (150ml)
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp)
- Salt and black pepper
- Potatoes for mashing (750g)
- Hot milk (4 tbsp)
- Butter (30g)
Preparation Instructions: The recipe involves browning the minced lamb, sautéing vegetables, and combining them with beef stock and Worcestershire sauce to create a rich filling. The filling is then topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave, ensuring the pie is heated through before serving.
Nutritional Information: Nutritional values will vary based on the exact ingredients used but generally include high protein from the lamb, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
Mary Berry's Shepherd’s Pie Dauphinois
Brief Description: This variation introduces a luxurious twist to the classic by featuring a layered potato and cream topping instead of the traditional mash, offering a richer texture and flavor.
Ingredients List:
- Raw minced lamb (900g)
- Chopped onions (2)
- Finely diced large carrots (2)
- Plain flour (45g)
- Red wine (300ml)
- Beef stock (300ml)
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
- Tomato purée (1 tbsp)
- Optional gravy browning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- For the topping: Sliced old King Edward potatoes or other floury potatoes (900g), double cream (150ml), grated mature Cheddar cheese (75g)
Preparation Instructions: This recipe involves browning the lamb with vegetables, thickening with flour, and simmering in red wine and beef stock. The meat mixture is then topped with blanched potato slices, cream, and cheese before baking.
Storage and Reheating: Similar to the traditional version, this dish can be refrigerated and reheated, maintaining its texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information: This variation may have higher fat content due to the cream and cheese but also offers a good protein source and essential nutrients from the vegetables and lamb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use beef instead of lamb for Shepherd's Pie? Traditionally, Shepherd's Pie is made with lamb. Using beef would technically make it a Cottage Pie, though the preparation methods are similar.
Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie? Yes, both versions of Shepherd's Pie freeze well. Just ensure it's cooled before freezing and properly sealed.
For a detailed step-by-step preparation of both versions of Mary Berry's Shepherd's Pie, visit LoveFood for the traditional recipe and the Shepherd’s Pie Dauphinois.
Mary Berry's recipes offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic British dish, whether you prefer the traditional approach or a more decadent Dauphinois version. Both are sure to be a hit with family and friends.