Indian shepherd's pies with cauliflower mash

Indian Shepherd's Pies with Cauliflower Mash combine spiced lamb and creamy cauliflower for a comforting dish. This recipe merges Indian and British flavors, perfect for family meals.

03 Jan 2026
Cook time 80 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
1 lb lamb mince
1/3 cup curry paste
1 can canned tomatoes
1/3 cup greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/3 cup peas
1/4 cup coriander leaves
1 egg
2 potatoes
1/2 cauliflower
1/4 cup butter

Indian Shepherd’s Pies with Cauliflower Mash is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Combining the rich flavors of spiced lamb with a creamy cauliflower mash, this recipe showcases a fusion of Indian and British cuisines. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish is both hearty and healthy.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lamb mince. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Mix in the curry paste, ensuring the meat is well coated. Cook for about 2 minutes.
- Add the canned tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add the peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped coriander leaves.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set the filling aside.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower Mash:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Add the chopped potatoes and cauliflower florets to the boiling water.
- Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Test by piercing with a fork.
- Drain well and return to the pot.
- Add the butter to the potatoes and cauliflower. Mash until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or an immersion blender for an extra smooth texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spoon the lamb mixture into individual ovenproof dishes or a single large baking dish.
- Spread the cauliflower mash evenly over the lamb mixture.
- Brush the top with the beaten egg to help achieve a golden crust.

4. Bake:
- Place the assembled pies in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

5. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with additional coriander leaves if desired.

Indian Shepherd's Pies with Cauliflower Mash seamlessly blends bold Indian spices with a traditional shepherd’s pie structure, offering a unique and flavorful meal. The creamy cauliflower mash perfectly complements the spiced lamb filling, making it a comforting and nutritious dish. Ready in under an hour and packed with taste, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Indian shepherd's pies with cauliflower mash FAQ:

How long do I bake the Indian Shepherd's Pie?

Bake the assembled pies in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

What can I use instead of lamb mince?

You can substitute lamb mince with ground beef, chicken, or turkey. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of vegetables.

How do I know when the mash is done cooking?

The mash is done when the potatoes and cauliflower are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, usually about 15-20 minutes of boiling.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and store it?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and cauliflower mash ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

What is a good substitute for Greek yogurt in this recipe?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream, regular plain yogurt, or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a similar creaminess.

Tips:

- 1. Pre-chop and measure all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

- 2. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garam masala or ground cumin to the lamb mixture.

- 3. Make sure to cook the onions, garlic, and ginger until they are well caramelized to deepen the flavor profile.

- 4. If you don't have curry paste, you can use curry powder, but adjust to taste as the intensity might vary.

- 5. To ensure a smooth and creamy cauliflower mash, use a food processor or blender after boiling the cauliflower.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 610kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 9g
Fat 40g

Indian shepherd's pies with cauliflower mash