01 May 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 carrots
1 stalk celery
1 lb lamb mince
2 tbsp tomato puree
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp worcestershire sauce
1 potato
2 cups pumpkin
1/2 cup peas
1/3 cup cheddar cheese
Bubble pies are a delightful twist on a classic British dish. Combining savory lamb mince with a medley of vegetables and a cheesy topping, these pies are both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables:
- Peel and finely chop the onion, mince the garlic cloves, finely chop the thyme, dice the carrots and celery, and peel and dice the potato and pumpkin.
2. Cook the base layer:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped thyme and diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Cook the lamb mince:
- Add the lamb mince to the saucepan. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato puree and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Simmer the filling:
- Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Stir occasionally.
5. Prepare the potato and pumpkin topping:
- While the meat filling is simmering, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the diced potato and pumpkin pieces to the boiling water, cooking until they are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and pumpkin, then return them to the pot. Mash them together until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the pies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Stir 1/2 cup of frozen peas into the meat filling.
- Spoon the meat filling into a baking dish or into individual pie tins.
- Spread the mashed potato and pumpkin mixture over the meat filling. Use a fork to create patterns on the surface for a crispy texture.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake the pies:
- Place the assembled pies into the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Serve:
- Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
- Ensure all vegetables are evenly diced for consistent cooking.
- For a richer flavor, allow the lamb mince to brown well in the pan before adding the other ingredients.
- Use a waxy potato variety as they hold their shape better during cooking.
- Feel free to add more fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the lamb mince with a plant-based mince or additional veggies.
Bubble pies offer a delicious and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With their flavorful filling and cheesy topping, these pies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich blend of textures and tastes in every bite!