Classic Scottish Mince and Tatties

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) minced beef 500g (1.1 lb) minced beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 500g (1.1 lb) potatoes, peeled and cubed 500g (1.1 lb) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 50g (1/4 cup) butter 50g (1/4 cup) butter
• 120ml (1/2 cup) milk 120ml (1/2 cup) milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the minced beef and cook until browned. Remove any excess fat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
4. 4.
   Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender.
6. 6.
   Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the minced beef mixture over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced beef — Choose lean minced beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute it with minced lamb or a combination of beef and pork for added flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce — If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce as a substitute for a similar umami flavor.
• Potatoes — Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest mashed potatoes.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the minced beef mixture while simmering.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the simmering mixture.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Mince and Tatties hot, with a generous portion of the minced beef mixture on top of a mound of creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, use a ring mold to shape the mashed potatoes into a neat circle on the plate. Place the minced beef mixture inside the circle and drizzle some of the gravy over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for an added touch of elegance.