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Mary Berry’s Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Mary Berry's Shepherd's Pie recipe
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Mary Berry’s shepherd’s pie is a traditional British dish made with minced lamb cooked in a savory sauce with onions, carrots, and peas and topped with buttery mashed potatoes. Unlike cottage pie, which uses beef, shepherd’s pie stays true to its roots by using lamb as the star ingredient.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • Minced lamb (500g): The base of the pie.
  • Onions (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
  • Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
  • Frozen peas (100g): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Beef or lamb stock (300ml): Forms the base of the sauce.
  • Tomato purée (1 tablespoon): Adds depth to the flavor.
  • Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons): For richness and umami.
  • Plain flour (1 tablespoon): To thicken the sauce.
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For cooking.
  • Salt and black pepper: To season.

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury varieties like Maris Piper work best.
  • Butter (50g): Adds creaminess.
  • Milk (75ml): For a smooth mash.
  • Grated cheddar cheese (optional, 50g): For a golden, crispy topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the filling

  • Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  • Add the minced lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, sauté the onions and carrots for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Make the gravy

  • Return the lamb to the pan. Stir in the plain flour and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, stock, and peas. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the mashed potatoes

  • Boil the potatoes in a large saucepan of salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the shepherd’s pie

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F).
  • Spoon the lamb mixture into an ovenproof dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Layer the mashed potatoes over the top and smooth with a fork to create a textured surface. Optionally, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the shepherd’s pie

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Serve

  • Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with steamed greens or a crisp salad for a complete meal

Find it online: https://britishbakingrecipes.co.uk/mary-berrys-shepherds-pie-recipe/