If you need a traditional Irish dinner but don't like corned beef and cabbage, then try this meal instead. It is delicious Irish comfort food that isn't just good for the Irish!
1 T. olive oil
1 t. freshly ground black pepper
1 lb. lean ground beef ,turkey or lamb
1 large onion, finely diced
4 large carrots, finely diced
1 1/4 c. frozen peas
4 sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 T. flour
1 1/2 T. butter or margarine
1 glass red wine
2 T. tomato paste or 3 T. ketchup
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
1 c. chicken stock
salt, to taste
6 c. mashed potatoes (leftovers are fine)
1 egg, beaten
grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter.
Saute carrots in the olive oil till just tender and then add in the onions and saute for a minute. Add the ground beef. Season with black pepper and thyme. Cook until browned. Drain off fat.
Add butter and peas and then sprinkle with flour and stir. Add tomato paste, wine and Worcestershire sauce.
Reduce a little and then add in the chicken stock. Reduce down until it is a thick meaty gravy. Season to your taste.
Remove from heat. Add the sauce.
Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top. Brush with egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake 20 minutes or until the potato is browned on top.
4-6 servings