Shepherd’s Pie Soup – the Ultimate Comfort Food
Craving the comforting flavor of Shepherd’s Pie but in a simpler and more versatile format? What if you could enjoy this classic comfort food as a hearty, soul-warming soup? Introducing a fantastic recipe to make a scrumptious Shepherd’s Pie in a bowl.
Why Make This Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless classic, an ultimate comfort food that spells home for many. Transporting this conventional recipe to a soup pot creates a more relaxed and easygoing dish that doesn’t compromise the flavor. It is great for those chilly nights, easy to serve at gatherings, and a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Given below are the ingredients you will need, followed by step by step instructions to put it together.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
– 1/2 cup cream or milk
Directions:
1. In a large pot, start by browning the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion turns translucent.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to blend the flavors.
4. Pour in the beef broth. Add the bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
5. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and give it a good stir. Season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked and tender.
6. Meanwhile, warm the mashed potatoes by mixing it with cream or milk. Stir until smooth.
7. Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Then, swirl or dollop the mashed potatoes into the soup, creating a deliciously thick and creamy texture.
8. Serve hot and tuck in!
How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie Soup
Serve this comforting soup in a bowl, with a warm baguette on the side. You can drizzle a little extra cream on top, garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley, or sprinkle a bit of cheese for extra flavor.
How to Store Shepherd’s Pie Soup
This soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Warm it up on a stovetop before serving. Avoid freezing this soup as the mashed potatoes might not retain their texture well when thawed.
Tips to Make Shepherd’s Pie Soup
– Leftover mashed potatoes work best for this soup. They blend perfectly and give the soup a thick, creamy consistency.
– Adding a bay leaf provides a subtle but lovely aroma. However, remember to remove it before adding the mashed potatoes.
– For a vegetarian version, replace beef with lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Variations
You can experiment with different types of meat like chicken or turkey. You could also add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat for this soup?
You can use any ground meat of your choice. Ground turkey or chicken could be a leaner alternative.
2. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can leave it out, but it does add a good depth of flavor. If needed, substitute it with soy sauce or a mix of vinegar and brown sugar.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead. However, it’s best to add the mashed potatoes just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
Cozy up with this delicious Shepherd’s Pie Soup and enjoy it with your family and friends. Happy cooking!