Authentic Irish Cottage Pie Recipe ๐ฅง๐
Introduction:
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Ireland with this delightful Cottage Pie recipe! Perfect for any occasion, this hearty dish combines savory ground beef, aromatic herbs, and creamy mashed potatoes, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a cozy meal, this authentic recipe promises to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups beef bouillon
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp sage
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lb potatoes, mashed
- Butter for dotting
- Bacon fat (optional, for added flavor)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 524.7
- Fat: 27.2g
- Saturated Fat: 10.5g
- Cholesterol: 107.9mg
- Sodium: 258mg
- Carbohydrates: 36.4g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 32.9g
Recipe Instructions:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
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Saute Onions: Drain most of the accumulated fat from the skillet, leaving a little for flavor. Saute the chopped onions until they become tender and translucent.
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Add Tomatoes: Once the onions are soft, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Season and Add Broth: Pour in the beef bouillon, stirring well to combine. Add the thyme, sage, and chopped parsley, infusing the mixture with aromatic goodness.
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Return Beef to Skillet: Return the browned beef to the skillet, mixing it with the onion and tomato mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
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Transfer to Casserole Dish: Carefully transfer all the ingredients from the skillet to an ovenproof casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution of the meat and vegetable mixture.
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Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture in the casserole dish. For a decorative touch, score the surface of the mashed potatoes with a fork.
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Dot with Butter: Dot the surface of the mashed potatoes with small pieces of butter, which will melt and add richness to the dish as it bakes.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes develop a golden crust on top.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Cottage Pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve generous portions onto plates, accompanied by your favorite sides or a crisp salad. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this authentic Irish dish with your loved ones!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this hearty Cottage Pie with a side of steamed green vegetables, such as peas or broccoli, for a nutritious meal.
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking, adding a deliciously gooey layer of goodness.
- Complete your Irish feast by serving this Cottage Pie alongside a pint of your favorite Irish stout or ale, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the Emerald Isle.
Tips:
- To save time, prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply reheat them slightly before spreading over the meat mixture.
- For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a medley of mixed vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and mushrooms, for a delicious meat-free alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Elevate your culinary repertoire with this classic Cottage Pie recipe, brimming with authentic Irish flavors and hearty goodness. Whether enjoyed on St. Patrick’s Day or any day of the year, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite, evoking memories of cozy kitchens and shared meals. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey to the Emerald Isle with this delightful recipe. Slรกinte! ๐