Mary Berry's Cottage Pie: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

The aroma of a perfectly baked cottage pie, bubbling with rich filling and topped with a golden crust, is enough to warm the soul. This classic comfort food is a staple in many households, and today, we're diving into Mary Berry's take on this beloved dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring ease of preparation. Here's what you'll need:

For the Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 1 lb beef mince (ground beef)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 1 pint beef stock
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 500g potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 50g butter
• 100ml milk
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow these steps for a perfect Mary Berry-style cottage pie:

1. Preparing the Filling:

• Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the beef mince and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
• Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and flour. Cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually stir in the beef stock, tomato purée, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

2. Making the Potato Topping:

• While the filling simmers, boil the potatoes until tender. Drain well and return them to the pan.
• Mash the potatoes with the butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. You can add a little grated cheese at this stage for extra flavour.

3. Assembling and Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Pour the beef filling into a suitable ovenproof dish.
• Spread the mashed potato evenly over the top, creating a smooth surface.
• You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on top, if desired.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Tips for the Perfect Cottage Pie:

• Use good quality mince: The flavour of the mince is key to a delicious cottage pie.
• Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become gummy. Aim for tender but not mushy.
• Let it rest: Allow the cottage pie to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This classic dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further with:

• A side of steamed green beans or peas.
• A simple salad.
• A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use other vegetables in the filling?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, swede, or parsnips.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cottage pie for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw completely before reheating.

This Mary Berry cottage pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, delicious flavour, and comforting nature make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy!