Curried Shepherd’s Pie

Curried Shepherd’s Pie brings a vibrant twist to a classic comfort food, blending the warmth of curry spices with the heartiness of ground beef and mashed potatoes. This dish was created to be both budget-friendly and full of flavor.

The savory beef mixture, enhanced with curry powder, cumin, and coriander, offers a satisfying, spiced base. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes and green peas, this pie is a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Ideal for cozy dinners, this recipe combines the richness of traditional shepherd’s pie with a unique, aromatic flair. It’s a dish that brings both warmth and excitement to the table.

Curried Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients

The foundation of Curried Shepherd’s Pie begins with Russet potatoes, their starchy texture perfect for creamy mashed potatoes that top the savory filling.

A blend of curry powder, cumin, and coriander infuses the ground beef with aromatic, warming spices that elevate the flavor profile, while the onions and garlic add depth and richness.

The addition of green peas brings a touch of color and freshness, contrasting beautifully with the hearty meat mixture. Finally, a dash of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, rounding out the dish with a satisfying sweetness.

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Curried Shepherd’s Pie: Recipe Tips

1. Customize the Spice Level
   While curry powder, cumin, and coriander create a flavorful spice base, you can adjust the heat to your liking. For a milder version, reduce the amount of curry powder or swap it for a more neutral spice blend. If you prefer extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili to the meat mixture.
2. Perfect Mashed Potatoes
   For a smoother, creamier topping, use a potato ricer or food mill to mash the potatoes. This method eliminates lumps and ensures a silky consistency. Additionally, make sure the milk and butter are hot when incorporated into the potatoes to keep them fluffy and easy to spread.
3. Let It Rest Before Serving
   After broiling the shepherd’s pie, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve, while also allowing the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.

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What to Serve with Curried Shepherd’s Pie

1. Crisp Side Salad
   Pair the rich and spiced Curried Shepherd’s Pie with a light, refreshing side salad. A mix of arugula, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, will provide a burst of freshness that complements the hearty, savory pie.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, offer a wonderful contrast to the creamy, spiced filling. The caramelization of the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which balances the bold flavors of the pie.
3. Garlic Bread
   A warm, crusty garlic bread would be a delightful accompaniment to the dish. The crispy, buttery texture and subtle garlic flavor enhance the overall meal, adding a comforting, familiar touch to this spiced twist on the classic shepherd’s pie.

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FAQ: Curried Shepherd’s Pie

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the curried meat filling and mashed potatoes in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to assemble, simply reheat the filling and mashed potatoes before broiling.
2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would make a lighter alternative to beef. Just be sure to season the meat well, as leaner meats can sometimes lack the richness that beef provides.
3. What can I use instead of green peas?
   If you’re not a fan of green peas, you can substitute them with other vegetables like corn, diced carrots, or even spinach. The key is to include something that adds a pop of color and freshness.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled pie for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it well with foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

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Curried Shepherd’s Pie

This flavorful variation on the classic English shepherd’s pie was created in 1984 by Pierre Franey and Craig Claiborne. The dish combines a savory ground beef filling, infused with curry powder, cumin, and coriander, topped with creamy mashed potatoes studded with green peas. A perfect blend of rich and aromatic flavors, this version offers a unique twist on a traditional comfort food.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, meat recipe

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• 6 Russet potatoes peeled and cut into 1½-inch cubes
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon peanut vegetable, or corn oil
• ¾ cup finely chopped onions
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 pounds ground lean beef
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed canned imported tomatoes
• ½ cup fresh or canned chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cups cooked fresh or frozen green peas
• ½ cup hot milk
• 3 tablespoons butter

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Potatoes
• Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add salt, if desired, and bring the water to a boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
• Cook the Spiced Meat Mixture
• While the potatoes cook, heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them until softened. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and coriander, and cook briefly until fragrant.
• Combine the Meat and Seasonings
• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a heavy spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper, then add the crushed tomatoes, broth, and sugar. Allow the mixture to cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
• Preheat the Broiler
• As the meat mixture simmers, preheat the broiler in your oven.
• Mash the Potatoes
• Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and pass them through a food mill or potato ricer back into the pot. Stir in the peas and cook briefly to combine.
• Make the Potato Topping
• Add the hot milk, two tablespoons of butter, and white pepper to the mashed potatoes, beating them with a wooden spoon until smooth and creamy.
• Assemble the Dish
• Preheat an eight-cup baking dish (a soufflé dish works well) and spoon the hot curried meat mixture into it. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them out evenly. Dot the top with the remaining tablespoon of butter.
• Broil and Serve
• Place the assembled dish under the broiler until the top is golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately while hot.

Keyword Curried Shepherd’s Pie