Cottage Pie is a quintessential comfort food that combines the richness of minced beef with the heartiness of mashed potatoes. This dish is a beloved classic for a good reason: its simplicity and the warmth it brings to the table. It's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Below is a satisfying recipe by Waitrose & Partners that delivers a beautiful blend of flavors, complete with a golden-brown crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 onions, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 500g of minced beef
- 2 tablespoons of tomato puree
- A generous splash of Worcestershire sauce
- 500ml of beef stock
- 1kg of potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 50g of butter
- A splash of warm milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A handful of grated cheese for topping
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Equipment: Frying pan, saucepan, ovenproof dish, potato masher
Instructions:
1. In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, cooking until softened and golden. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside.
2. Set the same pan back over heat and add an additional splash of oil. Introduce the minced beef and cook until browned.
3. Return the cooked vegetables to the pan with the beef. Stir to combine.
4. Mix in the tomato puree, and add the Worcestershire sauce, which adds all the necessary seasoning. You may not need additional salt and pepper.
5. Pour in the beef stock and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the flavors to intensify.
6. While the beef cooks, boil the potatoes in a separate saucepan until tender. Drain and mash them, adding in the butter and warm milk until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the beef mixture is ready and has a nice shine, with the stock reduced, transfer it to an ovenproof dish.
8. Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture. Use a fork to create peaks that will crisp up when baked.
9. (Optional) Scatter a handful of grated cheese over the top for an added touch of indulgence.
10. Bake the Cottage Pie in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
11. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
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Cooking Tips: For an extra golden top, place the pie under a broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
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This recipe is attributed to the author Waitrose & Partners. For more delicious recipes, visit their YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@waitroseandpartners
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