Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is comfort food at it’s best. Flavorful ground meat is mixed with a simple blend of peas, carrots and green beans, and in the recipe Cherie Randall submitted for the Primal Blueprint Cookbook Contest, topped with a creamy layer of buttery cauliflower puree. Once you’ve tasted the smooth texture and rich flavor of cauliflower whipped with butter you’ll want to start eating it straight out of bowl with a spoon. But for this recipe in particular it’s worth waiting to experience the whole dish together. Alone, ground meat and frozen vegetables may not seem like anything special. But when combined with the cauliflower puree into Shepherd’s Pie, the result is the type of home cooked meal all of us wish was waiting for us at the end of a long day.
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1-3 tablespoons cream (optional)
- salt & pepper taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen organic peas & carrots, thawed
- 3/4 cup frozen organic green beans, thawed
- 1 pound ground grass-fed beef or bison
- 1 tablespoon coconut flour or almond flour
- 3/4 cup beef stock or broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Break the cauliflower into chunky pieces and steam until just tender.
Put in the food processor with 2 tablespoons butter and process until smooth. Add salt & pepper to taste.
Optional: Add cream 1 tablespoon at a time until smooth but still fairly thick. Set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion and sauté several minutes until soft. Add beef and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring to break up the meat so it browns evenly. Add peas, carrots and green beans and cook another five minutes.
Stir in the coconut flour. Add broth and herbs and reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from skillet and put into a 9-inch pie pan. Spread the cauliflower over the top.
Scatter 2 tablespoons of butter cut into small pieces on top of the cauliflower. Bake 30-35 minutes.
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Posted By: Worker Bee
OK whatever the salt outcome, I’m protesting to to the reference to Jesus Christ. You will say whatever you want, but all I can say is, if you are using His name this way, you shouldn’t be. You don’t know Him and you have no right to use His name. It is not cheap merchandise. I appreciate the spirited banter on this site, but I can’t be silent when I see this; you must know a better expletive to use in these situations.
It seems that, as you describe it, Jesus Christ is as imaginary as you or I will be after our deaths. Rather a sad description of life.
‘Tis better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than open one’s mouth and remove all doubt.
Frosty= Jesus. Eat his body. MMMmmmm praise. lol.
well, believe whatever you want, But as far as I’m concerned, religion is simply ones preference of imaginary friend.
If the followers of one of those “imaginary friend’s” cults were in perfect physical condition, with no obesity and degenerative disease, I would say that there might be something in it.
There is not.
Well, we all believe what we want. I am not hoping to be perceived as religious, but as a seeker/finder of truth, which is what I believe most of us hope for. And I think I make a valid point, which I believe a thinker should understand, and that was my first one…that to use Jesus Christ as an expletive is offensive to me as the use of someone you respect/revere being profaned would be offensive to you…e.g. your wife or other famiy member. It’s just better to keep comments less personal, to be succinct.
Personal? Jesus Christ, you’re an idiot.
(insert thumbs up here)
If this were merely about mythology, you would use the name of Zeus instead but that would not serve your purpose, would it?
This post exists for no other purpose than to offend & inflame.
No one has been asked to change their religious beliefs for anyone else – only to show some respect & consideration for the beliefs of others.
Getting offended is a personal choice. One can laugh at it or one can be mad at it. Its best to make fun of all religions equally.
Thankfully, those of us who are Americans, at least, are fortunate enough to live in a country in which religion, or lack thereof, is a matter of individual choice. As a person of considerable religious conviction myself, as well as a deep and abiding respect for the role of science in making sense of the world in which we live, I am grateful for the insights of both.
It seems to me, however, that simple courtesy, civility, and respect for one another ought to discourage us from making dismissive, disparaging, or otherwise unkind comments about the earnestly-held beliefs of others. That includes off-the-cuff comments and gratuitous profanity which may be offensive to some, as well as references to “imaginary friends” and other such belittling comments. Such conduct does not reflect well on the person making such comments, nor on his or her belief system, whatever it might be.
This website, forum, and program is all about living in a healthy, sustainable fashion. For some of us, spiritual or religious beliefs are an important part of that holistic approach to life. For others, they may not be. For whatever it might be worth, I would recommend an increase of charity toward those whose opinions may differ from our own, and a concentration on those things which unite us rather than divide us. Courtesy, consideration, human kindness… these things are of little cost, yet their value is immense.
Thank you.
I suppose that’s your view of things.
I’m of the mind that if something offends you, examine yourself and find out why. If someone you don’t know and have no real interactions with types something you don’t like, why do you care? There are millions of people online, and millions more pretend personas. Why should what any one person says (or does not say) matter to you?
I like to state what I think and rib those who get offended at most things. Mostly because they’ll usually become more irate and start ranting, and I find that amusing. If I get snarky, it’s because I fully expect more snark-worthy comments to ensue. I’ll discuss civilly with people, but they must first demonstrate they contain a level head, or the potential to develop one.
I respect your piece here, for what it’s worth. You were nothing but reasonable. The comment that started this exchange, however, clearly was not, and was just as silly as the one being complained about.
It is a sad commentary on our culture today that anyone could be honestly ignorant of a most basic tenet of Judeo-Christian beliefs – not to say that everyone should be forced to adhere to those beliefs, but because those religions have had such a profound influence on Western civilization – but I will accept your claim of ignorance & try to explain despite your juvenile & troll-like penchant for provoking others.
Christians & Jews have a set of Commandments that they believe were given by God – they are known as the Ten Commandments. One of those Commandments it that His Name should not be used in vain. So this is something about which devout Christians & Jews are going to be pretty sensitive.
Since Christians believe that Jesus is God, then the Commandment would apply to His Name as well.
No one is asking you to believe – or even to understand – only to show some respect & consideration for the beliefs of others.
You made this statement: “not to say that everyone should be forced to adhere to those beliefs.” And then continue to say that those who do not believe in Christianity should not use His name in vain because others are sensitive about it.
The Commandments apply to those who believe in them. A “belief” the same thing you say that not everyone should be forced to follow. If someone believes in the Commandments then they should not use His name in vain. If someone else does it is their personal choice.
You should not be sensitive that the name is being used when it has no direct impact on you aside from the fact that it is against your religious beliefs and thus may make you uncomfortable.
If someone is going to try to shove their religious down one’s throat… then do not be surprised when one responds with a similar shove of nonbelief.
Especially considering how often Christians break the other Commandments.
@Thalia,
Actually, it is about MANNERS which = respect & consideration for the beliefs of others.
When I worked with a store manager who was a Muslim, I did not wave my bacon sandwiches in his face.
My Jewish friend was not offended by the fact that I celebrated Christmas while she was celebrating Hannukah – and vice versa.
I have also had friends who were atheists & agnostics, yet somehow we managed to get along without any problems.
What you are proposing in reality is not respect for someone’s unbelief; you are proposing respect for someone’s disrespect.
Which is not just oxymoronic, but a pretty unhealthy way to live for everybody…
Can those still commenting on this agree to leave this alone and focus on the more serious instance of blasphemy on this page? I’m referring of course to the use of beef in something erroneously described as “shepherd’s pie”. I kid and it’s delcious but come on: Shepherd’s pie?
I’ve read this whole thread and find it astonishing that only ONE PERSON has mentioned that Shephards Pie is in fact made with Lamb and the recipe on this page is Cottage Pie!
Definition:-
Cottage pie, refers to an English meat pie with a crust made from mashed potato and beef (Cottage) or Lamb (Shepherd’s).
You would have thought more of you would realise that the word SHEPHERD is associated WITH SHEEP/LAMB!
Maybe myself and the other person who pointed it out are the only Brits on here… or the only people that would look at the origins of a dish!
Or maybe after one person mentioned it 25 other people didn’t think it was necessary to do so. j/k lol
In the US, we have only called this Shepard’s pie. I’ve never heard the term Cottage Pie before. Just a cultural difference, I guess. We rarely/never get lamb in these here parts.
I grew up eating Shepard’s Pie, but my hubby’s taste is a little too highfalutin for such humble fare, so I haven’t made it in years, sigh. Maybe I’ll have to give it a go…
I agree with Bill, why add salt . My favorite
Shepherd’s Pie. Got to try this one.
Perhaps it’s not necessary for most people, but there are those of us who see spots and start falling over after a month or two of no salt.
It’s there, you can take it, leave it, or alter it if you so choose, like with any other ingredient.
Besides, it’s “add salt to taste”. If your taste for salt is none, don’t add it. Not rocket science.
I cook this regularly, it’s a favorite at home. I normally top it off with mashed Celeriac instead of Cauliflower though. Celeriac has a firmer texture and holds up against the mince nicely.
Any idea what the Nutritional Details is of this? I like to keep track of my intake- so just curious.
We did make it this morning- but used organic chicken- and veggie broth- instead of what was on original recipe. It was awesome! I ate about a cup’s worth- and it was very tasty and filling! Thanks for sharing! – jimmy
You can always input the ingredients into NutritionData or FitDay if it’s important to you. I do that with my own recipes, and it works fine.
My dear gods. You’ve ruined it. Positively. Ruined it.
Shepherds Pie is suppose to be quick, simple, and fast! REMEMBER! All “home foods” were made to be easy and filling!
Here’s what you need.
2 pounds ground beef
2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
4-8 good sized taters
butter
lawry’s seasoning salt
Milk
Worcestershire sauce
2 cans of corn
Brown the meat. Add three to four dashes worcestershire. Stir in cans of mushroom soup. Add no water. Stir and simmer.
Make the mashed taters as you normally would, but add four large dollops of butter and a dash of milk. In fact, make it five. Season with a dab of salt and some pepper. If you have it add (I’ not joking) a tablespoon or two of ranch dressing.
Drain the corn, heat in the microwave/on the stove/under your arm. It doesn’t matter.
Take the beef, put it in crockery. Layer it good and thick on the bottom. Now, layer the corn over that, also nice and thick. And top that off with lovely, smooth mashed potatoes.
Pop that sucker in the oven for forty-five minutes, pull it out, cool, and serve.
Chunks of carrots are optional, but are best avoided. If you use green beans, you should be cudgeled with cooking utensils until you stop deserving it.
Cauliflower use is grounds for public castration.
some variance of the recipe is fine (and sometimes necessary) but if you start needing fancy, expensive, or odd ingredients (WTF coconut flour?!) your going away from good cooking and into freakishly complicated.
Yes, I tried this recipe. It isn’t as good as mine, the ingredients are ridiculous, and the preparation is noisome to say the least.
Don’t try to be ‘interesting;’. Try to be a cook.
LOL. It’s always funny when someone posts to a site when they have no idea what it’s about.
By the way – I’ve made this recipe several times now & love it. I’ve improvised on the top layer, using purees of turnips, parsnips or rutabega(the best). I’m making it tonight with a mixture of turnip & red potato (a slight carb splurge).
Yuck! Also, you don’t have to be a cook to open a can of soup.
When you are merely opening up a can, it isn’t cooking (it is merely assembly).
Haha, I think I’m going to throw up. Cream of mushroom soup and ranch dressing.
Love the post from Nekko! Too funny! Anyways, this recipe is a definite keeper. I’m a paleo person, so I just skipped the butter and cream and only used a mix of peas and carrots. Awesome comfort food!
This recipe is excellent! I used one small potato in with the califlower and my husband couldn’t tell the difference from the full potato version I used to make.
PS. Do you think Nekko has ever ate a veggie?
I tried this.
It’s delicious, but I would suggest salting and peppering the cauliflower to taste (in addition to the filling) before covering the meat & veggies. Otherwise you’ll have a delicious filling covered in a bland but creamy “crust”.
Another thing you can do is take it out of the oven about 5 minutes before finishing and put some shredded cheese (I suggest something sharp) on top. Put it back in to let it melt.
This food is frighteningly good. It just came out of the oven and I’m eating it right now and… ah. That’s some fine home cooking.
I put in celery instead of peas, tons of green beans, and a little Worcestershire sauce (couldn’t help myself – I just discovered it in the last couple months and it’s been like a religious conversion). I’m about to get down on one knee and propose to mashed cauliflower. This is love.
I just wanted to say, using turnips to replace the cauliflower is better. To me at least. Tastes great.
This turned out great….simple to make. I adored the cauliflower topping. Whole family enjoyed it which is always a bonus. Definitely will make again.
This is kind of random, but could this be frozen, in finished form, to be popped into the oven @ a later time? Would the cauliflower suffer?
I’m addicted to salt. I didn’t know it. I fasted and found that when I don’t drink at least 10 glasses of water a day, I go for the salt– crunchy corn chips, bacon, popcorn. If it’s got salt and I’m thirsty, look out! The pie with the added leeks and oregano, mmmm.
Bill, you are arrogant and prideful. You insult others and their beliefs to get attention. You call people salt addicts and say that Jesus Christ is not real. FYI: Jesus Christ is real, and one day you will go down on one knee to him. Sad for you that you are unwilling to love him and be loved back.
I can’t wait to make this!
Had a craving for Shepard’s Pie, and googled the recipe but only looked at the images. This one popped up on the second page and I thought it had the best visual appeal. I am not a paleo-dieter but I this seemed like the healthiest option. Wow, was it good!! I have been wanting to try cauliflower in place of potatoes and this gave me a great place to start. It was quick, easy, flavorful (though I added more salt and used buffalo meat) and absolutely delicious! My husband hates potatoes and he loved this. Will definitely make again! Thanks Mark for the great recipe. Can’t wait to try some of the others.
I made this over the weekend, for St. Patrick’s Day, and used lamb instead of beef. I added a tiny bit of cinnamon, too. I wanted to come comment that it was REALLY delicious.