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Shepherd's Pie

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description Shepherd's Pie Overview

Shepherd's Pie is a British baked dish of minced lamb topped with mashed potato, distinct from cottage pie by its use of lamb, and documented in British cookbooks since at least the late 18th century.

help Shepherd's Pie FAQ

What is the difference between Shepherd's Pie and Cottage Pie?

Shepherd's Pie is strictly made with minced lamb, whereas Cottage Pie is traditionally made with minced beef. The names are often incorrectly used interchangeably, but traditional British recipes maintain this strict meat distinction.

What are the main ingredients in a traditional Shepherd's Pie?

The dish consists of a base layer of cooked minced lamb mixed with vegetables like carrots, onions, and peas. This base is then topped with a thick layer of mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown.

Does traditional Shepherd's Pie have a pastry crust?

No, authentic British Shepherd's Pie uses mashed potatoes as its top crust and does not feature any pie pastry. It was historically created as a practical way to use up leftover Sunday roasts.

Where did Shepherd's Pie originate?

The dish originated in the United Kingdom, with recipes appearing in British cookbooks since at least the late 18th century. It was born out of frugality as a way for housewives to repurpose leftover roasted meat.

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