Do Americans Really Behave Like British Shepherds in Pie?
Surprisingly, the answer is a resounding Absolutely Yes!
My Yearly Ritual with Shepherds Pie
My most cherished memories revolve around a yearly tradition that we established, especially around Christmas time. I would make a trip with my best friend to Maggie's Place NYC in Manhattan. My favorite memory was the enjoyable and sumptuous meal we had while exploring the city.
My friend's father was a self-made millionaire, and he was quite something. He and his wife practically groomed me as their adopted son, and we ventured out for special meals almost every day. Thanks to Mrs., a renowned Italian-American Chef, the culinary experience was unparalleled.
A Tradition Born of Love and Food
Starting a tradition with my buddy’s father during Christmastime, we would go to Maggie's for Shepherd's Pie every year. After a day of shopping and sightseeing, we would end the day at one of the most famous steakhouses in the city, trying different places with each visit over the years. As we got older, we even managed to enjoy beers with our meals, which was a treat for us.
The picture I shared is from a random review on TripAdvisor, depicting what was once a menu offering but is now quite limited due to kitchen equipment issues. However, Shepherd's Pie remained a favorite, filled with delicious ground lamb, vegetables, and an amazing gravy, all atop perfect potatoes.
Ground Beef vs. Ground Lamb: A Personal Tilt
While traditionally, Shepherd's Pie is made with ground lamb, and Cottage Pie with ground beef, I have a somewhat more relaxed view. Personally, I use ground beef when making Shepherd's Pie because it's roughly half the cost of lamb. Although costs have increased with financial inflation, ground beef remains more economical. If you ask me, I call it Shepherd's Pie when I make it, eat it, and share it with others.
Note that the British contingent may take issue with this, but I think it's just another culinary variation rather than a fundamental affront. Even Gordon Ramsay, the culinary authority, couldn't get offended about it on an episode of his show, so why should I?
A Culinary Filling and Warmwarming Delight
No matter the variant, Shepherd's Pie is a comforting and filling dish, especially in winter. It's not difficult to prepare, and the ingredients are reasonably priced, making it a delightful choice for any winter meal. Even if you live far from the frosty heights of New York, the hearty comfort can make a cold day feel a little warmer.
So, whether it’s beef or lamb, it's time to try Shepherd's Pie. It's a dish that brings about the warmth and comfort needed to combat the chill of winter, making it the perfect pick for visitors to New York, or just those cravings for a winter classic.
Further Reading
For those interested in exploring more delicious recipes, you can read about Shepherd's Pie recipes or delve into more variations of Shepherds Pie.