Description
Nigel Slater’s cottage pie is a traditional British dish made with minced beef cooked with onions, carrots, and celery in a rich gravy. It’s topped with a layer of smooth mashed potatoes, which is baked until golden and slightly crisp. This recipe is ideal for warming up during colder months or enjoying a hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- Minced beef (500g): High-quality beef for a rich flavor.
- Onions (2 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots (2 medium, diced): For texture and natural sweetness.
- Celery (2 sticks, finely chopped): Adds aromatic depth.
- Tomato purée (1 tablespoon): For a rich base.
- Beef stock (300ml): Creates the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds savory depth.
- Red wine (optional, 100ml): For a more robust flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: To season.
- Bay leaf (1): For an aromatic touch.
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Potatoes (1kg, peeled): Floury potatoes like Maris Piper are ideal.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness.
- Milk (100ml): For a smooth mash.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Optional, for subtle warmth.
- Grated Parmesan (optional, 50g): Adds a cheesy crust.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the filling
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced beef 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, carrots, and celery for 8–10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Make the sauce
- Return the beef to the pan. Stir in the tomato purée and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and simmer until slightly reduced. Add the beef stock and bay leaf. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and black 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 nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the cottage pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F).
- Spoon the beef filling into an ovenproof dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them with a fork to create ridges for a crispy texture. Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the cottage pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the cottage pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with steamed green beans or a fresh side salad.