cottage pie

bobbadog

I only ever make cottage pie when i'm also doing a chili or bolognaise, so i can syphon off some of the mince...

but i fry (and drain) the lean mince with an onion in the wok, add carrots, celery, hot water, an oxo, some ground ginger, herbs (mixed, or de provence, or parsley, whatever to hand) and let it simmer. I love the ginger, a must for me.

HelzBelz

lil_me wrote: »

I have this issue with the potato sinking into it, someone suggested putting it in the fridge before putting the mash on top which I will try next time.

If you work your way round the outside of the dish adding a little potato at a time then gradually work towards the centre it should stop the potato from sinking

Claudie

Not the healthiest option but ....

Add a layer of mash to the bottom of your dish first, then add the mince bit, then another layer of mash and sprinkle a little grated cheese on top. It makes the pie much easier to serve and we are all potato lovers!

Great comfort food

PS If I am in a hurry I dry fry the mince, add a tin of mixed peas and carrots and Bisto.........

belfastgirl23

For a veggie version, fry chopped onion and carrots, then add garlic and a tin of toms and cooked green lentils and some herbs. Then put potatos on top. Probably a lot cheaper than meat and very nice.

flyer

I want to make the family a nice, hearty cottage pie tonight, partially because we rarely eat together anymore.

I've been looking at recipes and found some that include a tin of chopped tomatoes. I've never seen it this way before. Is it better?

katiekittykat

Depends if you like tomatoes - i don't and someone i know did it and it was vile.

katiekittykat

I made shepherds pie the other day and used this recipe (can be used for both) but without the toms!


http://www.oxo.co.uk/recipes/recipe_view/18

nell2

I put tomato paste in mine. It gives it a nice rich flavour and I don't think it tastes tomatoey when it's all mixed in. Also, tomato paste is apparently very good for you!

shop-to-drop

I don't think there is any need to add tomatoes. I guess if you are trying to make the mince go further it may help.

I would never make CP without a good old splash or six (to taste) of worcestershire sauce though and usually I add ketchup too, yum!:p

Oh and don't forget some melted mature cheddar on the top.

tracyg

I don't like it will tinned toms but is lovely with a tin of baked beans and a big dollop tomato puree. Doesn't taste of tomato but seems to thicken it and give a richer taste IYSWIM