In mid-March, there are two unique observances days apart. Pi Day (March 14) celebrates the mathematical constant, “pi” (3.14…). Right after, on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day arrives, the annual celebration of the patron saint to Ireland. Traditionally, green clothing is worn, and Irish foods like corned beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread are consumed by Irish and non-Irish alike.

This month, I will share a recipe that connects the two: Shepherd’s Pie, a traditional English and Irish savory meat pie.

Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and quartered.
• 8 tablespoons butter, divided.
• 1 medium onion, chopped.
• 1 to 2 cups of mixed vegetables
• 1 ½ lbs. ground beef
• ½ cup of beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Pepper or other seasonings of choice

Directions

1. Place potatoes in a medium-sized pot. Cover with at least an inch of water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce the time to simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
3. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onions. Cook for 6-10 minutes. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Add ground beef to the pan with onions and vegetables. Cook until it is no longer pink. Drain. Season with salt and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add more broth if the mixture becomes too dry. Season to taste.
5. When potatoes are finished cooking, remove them from the pot. Place in a bowl along with 4 tablespoons of butter and mash.
6. Spread the meat mixture evenly in a large casserole pan. Spread the mashed potatoes on top. Fluff the top of potatoes with a fork.
7. Place it in a 400-degree oven and bake for about 35 minutes.

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