The Humble Shepherd is a comforting, hearty dish that draws inspiration from the traditional shepherd’s pie but with a few modern twists to elevate the flavors. This dish combines seasoned ground lamb with a medley of vegetables, all blanketed under a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, and then baked to perfection. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in, offering both warmth and satisfaction in every bite. The subtle hints of garlic and rosemary bring out the richness of the lamb, while the potatoes add a smooth, buttery finish. This dish is as comforting as it is flavorful, making it a staple in any comfort food repertoire.
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for a milder flavor)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:
- While the filling is cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the lamb and vegetable mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading them out to cover the entire surface. Use a fork to create some texture on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy The Humble Shepherd with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
