How to make mince and potatoes
Mince and potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that is loved by families across the UK. It is a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner recipe or something to serve at a dinner party, mince and potatoes is sure to be a hit.
This traditional British dish consists of ground beef (or mince) cooked with onions and a variety of spices, served on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish incredibly satisfying. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices.
To make mince and potatoes, start by browning the ground beef in a large pan. Then, add chopped onions and garlic and cook until they are soft and translucent. Next, stir in your favorite spices, such as paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. The spices will add depth of flavor to the dish.
Once the mince is fully cooked and well seasoned, it’s time to prepare the mashed potatoes. Peel and chop potatoes into small cubes, then boil them in salted water until tender. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, and a pinch of salt, then mash the potatoes until they are creamy and smooth.
Finally, it’s time to plate up your mince and potatoes. Spoon a generous portion of the cooked mince onto a serving plate, then top it with a mound of creamy mashed potatoes. For an extra indulgence, sprinkle some grated cheese on top and pop it under the grill to melt. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal.
The Best Recipe for Mince and Potatoes
Mince and potatoes is a classic dish that is easy to make and satisfying to eat. This recipe combines flavorful ground meat with hearty potatoes for a delightful meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 500g minced beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for five minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and mix well. Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the lid and let the mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the excess liquid to evaporate.
- Serve the mince and potatoes hot and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
This mince and potatoes recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of flavors creates a delicious and satisfying meal that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber |
---|---|---|---|---|
350 | 25g | 18g | 25g | 3g |
Preparation in 5 Simple Steps
- Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
- 500g minced beef
- 4 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 carrots
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs and spices for extra flavor
- Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables and Minced Beef
- Step 5: Combine and Serve
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients for making mince and potatoes. You will need:
Peel and chop the onion, garlic cloves, and carrots. Set them aside for later use.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Boil them in a pot of salted water until they are tender. Drain the water and set aside.
In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
Add the minced beef to the pan and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to break up any clumps.
Add the can of chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasoning to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens.
Once the mixture is ready, add the cooked potatoes and gently mix them into the mince. Allow everything to heat through.
Serve the mince and potatoes hot and enjoy!
Secret Tips for Extra Flavor
When it comes to making mince and potatoes, there are a few secret tips that can take your dish from good to great. These tips will help enhance the flavors and make your mince and potatoes stand out.
1. Sear the meat: Before adding the mince to the pan, make sure to sear it. This helps to develop the flavors and gives the meat a crispy exterior.
2. Use quality ingredients: Choose high-quality mince and potatoes to ensure the best flavor. Investing in good ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your dish.
3. Add a splash of vinegar: Just a tablespoon of vinegar can add brightness to the dish and help balance out the richness of the mince. Try using apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
4. Incorporate herbs and spices: Adding a variety of herbs and spices can take your mince and potatoes to the next level. Experiment with flavors like paprika, thyme, oregano, and garlic powder.
5. Simmer for longer: Allowing the flavors to develop by simmering the mince for a longer period of time can result in a richer and more flavorful dish. Aim for at least 30 minutes of simmering.
6. Finish with a touch of seasoning: Just before serving, taste your mince and potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed. Adding a final touch of salt and pepper can bring out the flavors even more.
By following these secret tips, you can take your mince and potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary. Enjoy the delicious flavors and impress your family and friends!
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Once you’ve made your delicious mince and potatoes dish, it’s time to serve and store it properly to ensure the best taste and freshness. Here are some suggestions:
Serving:
– Spoon the mince and potatoes onto plates or bowls, making sure to get a good balance of meat and potatoes in each serving.
– Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color and freshness.
– If desired, drizzle a bit of gravy or sauce over the dish to add extra flavor.
Storage:
– If there are any leftovers, allow the mince and potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
– Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or stock to prevent the dish from drying out.
– It is not recommended to freeze mince and potatoes, as the texture of the potatoes may become mushy upon thawing.
By following these serving and storage suggestions, you can enjoy your mince and potatoes dish at its best!