Simple cottage pie for two Recipe
Simple cottage pie for two Recipe from www.getslim.co.uk

The History of Cottage Pie

Cottage pie is a traditional British dish that dates back to the 18th century. It was originally made with leftover meat, usually beef or lamb, and mashed potatoes. The dish was named "cottage pie" because it was typically made by rural families in their cottages.

What is Cottage Pie?

Cottage pie is a savory dish made with ground beef or lamb, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. The dish is typically baked in the oven and served hot. It is a hearty meal that is popular in the UK and other countries.

Ingredients

The ingredients for cottage pie vary depending on the recipe. However, the basic ingredients include ground beef or lamb, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and mashed potatoes.

Preparation

To prepare cottage pie, start by browning the ground beef or lamb in a large skillet. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes until they are tender, then mash them with butter and milk. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, and top with the mashed potatoes. Bake in the oven until the potatoes are golden brown and the meat is bubbling.

What to Serve with Cottage Pie?

Cottage pie is a meal in itself, but it can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:

Vegetables

Cottage pie is typically served with vegetables such as peas, carrots, and green beans. These can be boiled or steamed and served on the side.

Salad

A simple salad of lettuce, tomato, and cucumber can be a refreshing accompaniment to cottage pie.

Bread

Crusty bread or rolls are a great addition to cottage pie. They can be used to mop up any leftover sauce.

Wine

A glass of red wine pairs well with cottage pie. Choose a full-bodied wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.

Tips for Making Cottage Pie

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect cottage pie:

Use Lean Meat

Choose lean ground beef or lamb for your cottage pie. This will reduce the amount of fat in the dish and make it healthier.

Season Well

Be sure to season the meat mixture well with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.

Make Extra

Cottage pie is a great meal to make ahead of time. Make a double batch and freeze one for later.

Experiment with Vegetables

Try adding different vegetables to your cottage pie. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes are all great additions.

Conclusion

Cottage pie is a classic British dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. It can be served with a variety of side dishes and is perfect for a cozy night in. With a few simple tips, you can make the perfect cottage pie every time.