Delight in the timeless comfort of a hearty classic, the beloved cottage pie. With its simple yet tantalizing flavors, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that never fails to satisfy. Whether adorned with a cheesy mash or left unadorned, its essence remains irresistible.
Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g ground beef
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 tbsp tomato puree
- 600ml beef stock
- 800g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- Butter
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
- Oil
- Cheddar or Parmesan cheese, for topping
Methods
1. Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, spreading it evenly to achieve a golden sear on each side. Once browned, remove from the pan. Add more oil if necessary, then sauté the onions and carrots until translucent. Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme, continuing to cook.
2. Return the cooked beef to the pan, and add the tomato puree and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for a few minutes before pouring in the beef stock. Season with salt to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld. For optimal results, longer simmering enhances the depth of flavor. If the mixture thickens too much, simply add a splash of water.
3. While the filling simmers, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, then mash to desired consistency. Incorporate butter and milk to taste, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Preheat the oven to 220°C. Once the beef mixture is cooked to perfection, adjust seasoning to taste. Transfer the mixture to an ovenproof dish, spreading the mashed potatoes evenly on top. Sprinkle with grated cheese for an extra indulgence. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling with irresistible allure.