Cottage pie, a traditional English dish, has been a staple of British cuisine for centuries. This comforting, filling meal consists of a layer of cooked ground meat and vegetables topped with a crust of mashed potatoes. While it’s often served as a main course, cottage pie can also be enjoyed as a side dish or even a snack. But what do you eat with cottage pie? In this article, we’ll explore the various options for accompanying this delicious dish.
Traditional Accompaniments
In the UK, where cottage pie originated, it’s common to serve the dish with a variety of traditional accompaniments. Some popular options include:
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans, are a classic accompaniment to cottage pie. The steaming process helps preserve the nutrients and flavor of the vegetables, making them a healthy and tasty side dish.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and parsnips, are another popular option. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, which complements the savory flavor of the cottage pie.
Salad
A simple green salad, made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, comforting cottage pie.
Other Popular Options
While traditional accompaniments are delicious, there are many other options to consider. Some popular alternatives include:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, a classic comfort food, pairs perfectly with cottage pie. Simply slice a baguette, spread garlic butter on each slice, and bake until crispy.
Gravy
A rich, savory gravy can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. You can make your own gravy using the pan drippings from the cottage pie, or use a store-bought variety.
Braised Red Cabbage
Braised red cabbage, cooked with apples and onions, provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory cottage pie.
International Inspirations
Cottage pie is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of international flavors. Some ideas include:
Kimchi
Spicy kimchi, a Korean fermented cabbage dish, adds a bold, sour flavor to the cottage pie.
Salsa
A fresh, spicy salsa, made with diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos, adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
Naan Bread
Naan bread, a type of Indian flatbread, provides a crispy, slightly tangy base for sopping up the juices of the cottage pie.
Breakfast Options
Cottage pie isn’t just for dinner – it can also be enjoyed for breakfast. Some popular breakfast options include:
Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs, cooked with diced vegetables and a sprinkle of cheese, provide a protein-packed start to the day.
Grilled Sausages
Grilled sausages, such as bacon or chorizo, add a smoky, savory flavor to the dish.
Dessert Options
While cottage pie is a savory dish, it can be followed by a variety of sweet treats. Some popular dessert options include:
Fruit Crumble
A warm, comforting fruit crumble, made with seasonal fruit and a crunchy oat topping, provides a sweet contrast to the savory cottage pie.
Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, is the perfect way to cap off a comforting meal.
Conclusion
Cottage pie is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of accompaniments, from traditional steamed vegetables to international flavors like kimchi and salsa. Whether you’re looking for a comforting main course, a satisfying side dish, or a hearty breakfast option, cottage pie is sure to please. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious, comforting meal, consider giving cottage pie a try – and don’t forget to get creative with your accompaniments!
| Accompaniment | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Vegetables | Steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans provide a healthy and tasty side dish. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and parsnips bring out the natural sweetness in the vegetables. |
| Garlic Bread | Garlic bread, made with garlic butter and baked until crispy, pairs perfectly with cottage pie. |
| Kimchi | Spicy kimchi adds a bold, sour flavor to the cottage pie. |
| Fruit Crumble | A warm, comforting fruit crumble provides a sweet contrast to the savory cottage pie. |
In conclusion, cottage pie is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting main course, a satisfying side dish, or a hearty breakfast option, cottage pie is sure to please. So next time you’re cooking, consider giving cottage pie a try – and don’t forget to get creative with your accompaniments!
What is Cottage Pie?
Cottage pie is a traditional English dish made with a layer of cooked ground meat and vegetables topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. The dish is often served hot and is a popular comfort food in many parts of the world. It is similar to shepherd’s pie, but the main difference is that cottage pie is made with beef, while shepherd’s pie is made with lamb.
The dish is thought to have originated in the late 18th or early 19th century, when cooks would use leftover meat and vegetables to make a filling, topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. The dish was originally called “cottage pie” because it was a simple, hearty meal that could be made in a cottage or small home.
What are the main ingredients in Cottage Pie?
The main ingredients in cottage pie are ground meat (usually beef), vegetables such as onions, carrots, and peas, and mashed potatoes. The filling is typically made with a mixture of sautéed onions, carrots, and peas, cooked ground meat, and a gravy made with beef broth and tomato paste. The mashed potatoes are usually made with boiled potatoes, butter, and milk.
Some recipes may also include additional ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or herbs and spices, to add flavor to the filling. The dish can be customized to suit individual tastes, and some people may choose to add other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to the filling.
How do I make Cottage Pie?
To make cottage pie, start by cooking the ground meat and vegetables in a pan until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Then, add a gravy made with beef broth and tomato paste to the pan and stir to combine. Transfer the filling to a baking dish and top with a layer of mashed potatoes.
Bake the dish in a preheated oven until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Some recipes may also include additional steps, such as browning the potatoes under the broiler or adding a layer of cheese to the top of the dish.
Can I make Cottage Pie ahead of time?
Yes, cottage pie can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To make the dish ahead of time, prepare the filling and mashed potatoes as directed, then assemble the dish and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
If refrigerating the dish, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If freezing the dish, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
Can I customize Cottage Pie to suit my tastes?
Yes, cottage pie can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some people may choose to add additional ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to the filling. Others may choose to use different types of meat, such as ground turkey or pork, or to add different spices or herbs to the filling.
The dish can also be made with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, or with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan. Some people may also choose to add a layer of cheese to the top of the dish before baking.
Is Cottage Pie a healthy dish?
Cottage pie can be a healthy dish, depending on the ingredients used. The dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and can be made with lean ground meat and a variety of vegetables.
However, the dish can also be high in calories and fat, depending on the amount of butter and cheese used. To make a healthier version of the dish, use lean ground meat, reduce the amount of butter and cheese used, and add more vegetables to the filling.
Can I serve Cottage Pie at a dinner party?
Yes, cottage pie can be served at a dinner party. The dish is a hearty, comforting meal that is sure to be a hit with guests. It can be served as a main course, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.
To make the dish more impressive, consider adding a layer of cheese to the top of the dish before baking, or using a variety of colorful vegetables in the filling. The dish can also be served in individual portions, making it a great option for a dinner party.