Traditional Shepherds Pie

Method

1. Place first six ingredients in a saucepan, slowly bring to the boil and cook gently for 5 minutes, stirring continuously.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add Fairy to mashed potato.
4. Place a layer of mashed potato into a greased 23 cm (9 inch) pie plate.
5. Spread meat over the top and spread with remaining mashed potato.
6. Using a fork make a pattern in the potato.
7. Bake in a moderately hot oven at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and golden.
8. Serve accompanied by peas.

Serves 6.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use fresh minced meat instead of cooked minced meat?
  Yes. If using raw mince, brown it thoroughly in a pan before adding the herbs, flour and water. Ensure it is fully cooked before assembling the pie.
• Why is flour added to the meat mixture?
  Plain flour helps thicken the meat filling, creating a light gravy that binds the ingredients together and prevents the pie from becoming watery.
• Can I prepare shepherds pie in advance?
  Yes. Assemble the pie, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from chilled.
• Can I freeze shepherds pie?
  Yes. Freeze before or after baking in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating until heated through.
• How do I get a golden top?
  Using a fork to create ridges helps the potato crisp and brown in the oven. You can also place the dish under the grill briefly for extra colour.
• What can I serve with shepherds pie?
  Steamed peas are traditional, but green beans, carrots or a simple side salad also work well.

PRO TIPS FOR MAKING THIS RECIPE

• Season the meat mixture well
  Taste before assembling to ensure the filling is properly seasoned, as this forms the base flavour of the dish.
• Mash potatoes until smooth
  Smooth mashed potato spreads more evenly and creates a neater top layer.
• Add Fairy while potatoes are hot
  Stirring Fairy margarine into hot mashed potato helps it melt evenly, creating a creamier texture.
• Spread potato evenly to seal edges
  Ensure the mashed potato fully covers the meat layer and reaches the edges of the dish to prevent the filling from bubbling over.
• Create texture with a fork
  Running a fork across the top creates peaks that brown beautifully in the oven.
• Rest before serving
  Allow the pie to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling settle and makes serving easier.