Mushroom, kumara & beef cottage pie

Name: Mushroom, Kumara, and Beef Cottage Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 500g beef mince; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 200g mushrooms, sliced; 2 large kumara (sweet potatoes), peeled and chopped; 1 cup beef stock; 2 tbsp tomato paste; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup grated cheese

Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of mushroom, kumara, and beef cottage pie. This classic dish features a savory filling made from ground beef, tender mushrooms, and sweet kumara (sweet potato), all cooked with aromatic herbs and spices. The filling is topped with a smooth and creamy mashed kumara layer, then baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this cottage pie offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors with a rich, satisfying texture. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting taste of mushroom, kumara, and beef cottage pie!

1 tbs olive oil
1 brown onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
500g lean beef mince
250g button mushrooms, finely chopped
1 celery stick, finely chopped
1 large carrot, finely chopped
2 tbs tomato paste
1 cup beef stock
400g can diced tomatoes
2 tbs Worcestershire sauce
800g kumara (orange sweet potato), peeled & diced
50g chilled butter, diced
⅓ cup fat reduced milk, warmed
⅓ cup finely grated parmesan

STEP 1 Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, for 3-4 minutes until softened. Increase to high, add mince and cook, stirring to break up mince with a wooden spoon, for 4-5 minutes until browned.

STEP 2 Add mushrooms, celery and carrot to pan and cook, stirring often, for 3 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add stock, tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce, cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered and stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until thick. Season to taste.

STEP 3 Meanwhile, preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan-forced. Bring kumara to the boil in a medium saucepan of cold water over high heat. Reduce heat and gently boil for 12 -15 minutes or until tender. Drain and return kumara to saucepan. Toss over low heat until dry. Remove from heat and roughly mash. Beat in butter and milk until smooth. Season to taste.

STEP 4 Spoon mince mixture into a greased 6-cup (about 5cm deep) baking dish. Evenly top with mashed kumara. Sprinkle with parmesan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden and serve.

Nutritional Facts

Kumara (Sweet Potato): Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and C; supports vision and immune health. High in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants; promotes digestive health and overall well-being.

Mushroom: Low in calories and fat; supports weight management. Rich in B vitamins, including riboflavin and niacin; promotes energy production and brain health. Contains selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Provides dietary fiber; supports digestive health. Contains compounds that may support immune function.