Discover the comforting layers of this traditional Canadian Shepherd's Pie, known as Pâté Chinois, which surprisingly has no connection to China but is instead a beloved recipe from the heart of Canada. This hearty, savory pie combines ground beef, sweet corn, and creamy mashed potatoes in a bake that will warm your home and your soul. Let's create this classic dish that blends simple ingredients into spectacular comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil (or any vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Butter for the mashed potatoes
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Equipment: Pot for boiling potatoes, frying pan, oven-safe baking dish, potato masher
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Begin by placing the potato chunks into a large pot of boiling water and cook them until they are soft and breakable with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
3. While the potatoes are boiling, heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
4. Once the onions have softened, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with your cooking utensil and cook until it's thoroughly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain any excess oil from the beef and onion mixture, then spread it evenly in the bottom of your baking dish.
6. Cover the beef with the corn kernels, creating an even layer.
7. Check if the potatoes are ready by piercing them with a fork. If they are soft, drain the water and return them to the pot.
8. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher, adding in the milk and a knob of butter if desired, until you achieve a creamy consistency. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the corn layer and smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
10. Sprinkle the paprika over the mashed potatoes for a touch of color and flavor.
11. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
12. Let the Shepherd's Pie sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer mashed potato topping, add a touch of cream along with the milk.
- Personalize your Shepherd's Pie by adding additional herbs and spices to the beef or the mashed potatoes.
- Let the pie rest for about 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
Find the full video demonstration of this recipe and many more on Couverts et Baguettes' YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CouvertsetBaguettes
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