Sweet Potato Cottage Pie: A Comforting and Nutritious Dish
Introduction:
Sweet potato cottage pie is a delectable and nutritious twist on the classic cottage pie. This dish combines the hearty flavors of ground beef and vegetables with the sweet and earthy taste of mashed sweet potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Layer:
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
For the Sweet Potato Layer:
* 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and boiled
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/2 cup milk
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Remove from heat and drain off any excess fat.
3. Return the beef to the skillet and add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the mixture has thickened.
5. In a large bowl, mash the boiled sweet potatoes with the butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spread the beef mixture into an even layer in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the mashed sweet potatoes, smoothing out the surface.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are golden brown and the beef mixture is bubbling.
Tips:
* For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or beans.
* To save time, use pre-cut vegetables or frozen chopped onions.
* Add a layer of grated cheese on top of the sweet potatoes for extra flavor and a crispy topping.
* Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted carrots for a complete meal.
Nutritional Value:
Sweet potato cottage pie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. They are also rich in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote satiety. The ground beef provides protein and iron, and the vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish.
Conclusion:
Sweet potato cottage pie is a versatile and satisfying dish that is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It is easy to make, customizable to your dietary preferences, and a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and nutrients. So next time you crave comfort food, give this nutritious and flavorful spin on the classic cottage pie a try.