DESCRIPTION OF HERB-INFUSED GARDEN SHEPHERD’S PIE
The Herb-Infused Garden Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie, perfect for health-conscious individuals. Featuring lean ground turkey or beef and a medley of vegetables, it is crowned with a velvety cauliflower topping instead of the usual potatoes. This dish is packed with flavour, thanks to fresh herbs and a thoughtful blend of seasonings, making it a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
- Serves 6
CUISINE
- British, Modern European
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Bake, Sauté
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Winter, Family Reunion, Comfort Food Night
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- Low Fat, Low Cholesterol, High Fibre, Healthy
DISH TYPE
- Casserole / Gratin
INGREDIENTS FOR HERB-INFUSED GARDEN SHEPHERD’S PIE
For the Filling:
- 1 lb. ground turkey or beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1/2 Tbsp each fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp chicken stock
- 1 Tbsp potato starch
For the Topping:
- 1/2 head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 4g
PREPARATION FOR HERB-INFUSED GARDEN SHEPHERD’S PIE
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft. Add ground meat, carrots, mushrooms, and half the herbs. Cook until beef is browned.
- Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle potato starch over the cooked meat and vegetables. Stir well. Slowly add chicken stock, allowing it to thicken—season with salt and pepper.
- Make the topping: Steam or boil cauliflower until tender. Mash with an egg, remaining herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble: Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish. Spread the cauliflower topping over the meat.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden.
- Broil for colour: For additional colour, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
PREP TIME
- 20 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 25 minutes
TIPS FOR HERB-INFUSED GARDEN SHEPHERD’S PIE
- Ensure your cauliflower is well-drained before mashing to prevent a watery topping.
- Enhance the filling by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavour.
VARIATIONS
- Add sweet peas or corn to the filling for extra sweetness and texture.
- For a vegan version, substitute lentils for the meat and use a flax egg in the cauliflower mash.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR GARDEN SHEPHERD’S PIE
- Prepare ahead and refrigerate overnight; bake before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
This recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also meets dietary needs without compromising on flavour, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cosy night in.