Canadian Shepherd’s Pie

Mar 25

Canada's culinary history began long ago with rich Indigenous food traditions that have been passed down through generations. When newcomers from Britain, France, and other parts of Europe arrived in the seventeenth century, their primary focus was on survival, which meant adapting and changing their favorite recipes to incorporate local ingredients found in their new environment. They hunted game, fished in abundant waters, and gathered various edible plants and fruits from their new surroundings. This blend of practices led to a diverse culinary heritage that has been influenced by Canada's many different regions, the varied climates across the country, and the numerous cultural groups that have made Canada their home. The delightful mix of Indigenous and European cooking styles created a vibrant and unique food scene that continues to grow and evolve, reflecting Canada's rich multicultural identity and culinary landscape.

Not that long ago, perhaps around 50 to 75 years ago, most kitchens were equipped with a grinder to efficiently process leftover bits of meat or make their own sausages. During that time, a meat pie was often considered the standard Monday dinner, typically made with the minced remains of the previous day’s roast. If the roast was lamb, it would be referred to as a Shepherd’s Pie; conversely, if it was beef, it was known as a Cottage Pie. The name "Shepherd’s Pie" undoubtedly originates from the rich culinary heritage of England, Scotland, and Ireland. In my recipe, the leftover components are actually more likely to be the mashed potatoes and vegetables that were saved from a previous meal or two, while the meat utilized is fresh and uncooked. This recipe is both very straightforward and quick to prepare. I particularly recommend using bison meat for this dish. Bison meat is generally regarded as a healthy and nutritious choice, providing a lean source of protein alongside essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, all while containing less fat and cholesterol than traditional beef. When you buy Canadian bison products, you’re supporting both Canadian farm and ranching families, local businesses and sustainable agriculture.

Canadian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

By Zosia Culinary Adventures | Date: March 24, 2025

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Casserole dish size: 3-quart or approximately 3 litres

Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients:

900 g Noble Premium Bison, ground meat
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 large carrot, diced
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon sunflower oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons of all purpose flour
t tablespoons tomato paste
250 ml vegetable or beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
250 ml fresh or frozen peas
1.5 litre mashed yukon gold potatoes
1 cup Glengarry Fine Cheese, Iron Horse, shredded
salt and pepper for taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375ºF or 190ºC. Lightly grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter.
Peel and boil Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
Brown the bison ground meat thoroughly in a large oiled skillet over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once browned, transfer the meat to a separate side bowl, and in the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and thyme. Sauté these ingredients until the onions are just beginning to turn translucent, releasing their fragrant aromas. After cooking, carefully remove the vegetables to the side bowl along with the meat.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, mix in the flour until combined, then add the tomato paste and stir until smooth. Next, add the stock and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for about 5 minutes or until thickened. Then, add the browned bison meat, vegetables, and peas. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Turn the mixture carefully into the prepared casserole dish. Next, puree the boiled potatoes until they reach a smooth consistency, then spoon them generously on top of the meat mixture. With a spatula, smooth out the mashed potatoes evenly, and then run the tip of a fork over the surface to create a decorative look. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top for added flavor. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the meat is bubbling hot and the potatoes have turned a lovely golden brown.
Enjoy with your family and friends. Profitez-en avec votre famille et vos amis🧡

Nutrition Facts per One Serving

Calories 481| Fat 31.6 g \ Saturated Fat 16.5 g\ Cholesterol 117 mg\ Sodium 440 mg\ Total Carbohydrate 22.7g\ Dietary Fiber 2.5g\