Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois, also known as Pâté Chinois or simply Pâté, is a classic comfort food dish with a rich history. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was believed to have been created by French-Canadian railway workers. These workers were involved in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, and they needed a hearty and filling dish to sustain them during their long and physically demanding workdays. Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois consisted of three layers: a bottom layer of seasoned ground beef, a middle layer of canned corn, and a top layer of mashed potatoes. Each layer was carefully cooked and then baked together to create a delicious and comforting one-pot meal.
Ingredients
- 200g ground beef
- 50g carrot, chopped
- 50g celery, chopped
- 20g onion, chopped
- 3 Potatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves of Garlic
- 2 spoons of ketchup
- ¼ cup of butter
- ½ cup of milk
- ½ of cheese
- salt, rosemary and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
Directions
step 1
Start by preparing the mashed potatoes. Peel and chop the potatoes into small pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, usually around 15-20 minutes. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy, adding more butter or milk if needed.
step 2
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, followed by the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
step 3
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook the beef until it is browned and cooked through, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
step 4
Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine the seasonings with the meat. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
step 5
Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly in the greased baking dish, creating a bottom layer. Use a spatula to press it down gently.
step 6
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef layer, creating a top layer. Use a fork to create some texture on the surface of the potatoes.
step 7
Add a layer of shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. Choose your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a gooey and cheesy addition.
step 8
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Once it is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois is a comforting and hearty dish that has stood the test of time. From its humble origins among Canadian railway workers to its status as a beloved comfort food around the world, this dish has truly made its mark.
Pro Tips
- Use a combination of beef and pork: To add more depth of flavor to your Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork. This will give the dish a richer and more complex taste.
- Season the mashed potatoes: Don’t forget to season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper. This will ensure that every layer of your Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois is full of flavor.
- Use a piping bag for the potato topping: For an extra fancy presentation, transfer the mashed potatoes to a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe the potatoes onto the top of the dish in a decorative pattern before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Individual Ramekins: Instead of baking the Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois in a large dish, divide the mixture among individual ramekins. This not only makes for a cute and elegant presentation but also allows for easier portion control.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, on top of the dish before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Accompany your Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois with a fresh and crisp side salad. The lightness of the salad will complement the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with Steamed Vegetables: Steam a medley of vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and peas, and serve them alongside the Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois. This adds extra nutrition and a variety of textures to the meal.
Variations and Additions
- Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois: For a meatless version of this dish, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a combination of lentils and mushrooms. The rest of the recipe remains the same, creating a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option.
- Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a little heat in your dishes, add some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture. The spice will add a kick of flavor to the dish, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
- Mediterranean Style: Add a Mediterranean twist to your Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois by using ground lamb instead of beef and incorporating flavors like cumin, cinnamon, and oregano. Top the dish with a layer of feta cheese for a tangy and salty finish.
Storing and Preserving
- Make it ahead of time: Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois is a great dish to make ahead of time. Prepare the layers and assemble the dish, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the foil and follow the baking instructions.
- Freeze for later: Shepherd’s Pie Pâté Chinois can also be frozen for future meals. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking it as usual.
Top Questions
How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy?
To make the mashed potatoes extra creamy, add a generous amount of butter and milk while mashing them. Gradually incorporate the butter and milk until you achieve the desired consistency. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
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