Entree: United Kingdom – Scotland Lowlands – Mince and Tatties (Seasoned minced beef cooked in gravy and served with creamy mashed potatoes)

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 30 min

Total 45 min

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) minced beef
2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil (selected option)
1 large onion, finely chopped (about 8 oz / 225 g)
1 large carrot, diced (about 4 oz / 115 g; optional, included)
2 tbsp (30 g) plain flour
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef stock
1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp (5 g) salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 lb (900 g) potatoes (Maris Piper selected from the listed varieties), peeled and cut into chunks (estimated edible portion: 810 g)
4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, warmed (add more if a softer mash is desired)
Salt and pepper, to taste, for the mash
1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, optional, to serve

Instructions

1. Place the peeled, chunked potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes, until tender.
2. While the potatoes cook, heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and, if using, the diced carrot. Cook for 6–8 minutes, until softened.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables. Stir for 1–2 minutes, then gradually pour in the beef stock, stirring to keep the gravy smooth.
5. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
6. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with the butter and warmed milk until smooth and creamy. Season the mash with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If serving peas, heat them in a small pan or microwave until hot.
8. Serve the mince and gravy alongside the mashed potatoes, with peas on the side if desired.