Leftover Surprise

SHEPHERD"S PIE

This is the dish to make when you have leftovers and want to relax after a day's work.  In our house Mince is a hot favourite and the dish is usually scraped clean with bread or chappathis.  So Shepherd's Pie is a project in itself.  I always make double and freeze half, so that I can take it out of the freezer and use on a holiday or when we have unexpected guests.

The Recipe:

250 gms mince; 100 gms mixed vegetables like peas, diced carrots and corn kernels; 2 large flakes garlic, minced; 1 large onion, minced; 2 stalks of celery with leaves, chopped; coriander leaves and spring onions, chopped; 1 inch piece ginger, minced; 2 green chillies, minced; salt to taste and oil for cooking; cheese (optional) for garnishing.
For Topping:  2 large potatoes boiled.  Mash with 1/4 cup low fat milk.  Add salt and pepper to taste.  Cover and keep aside.
Wash & drain mince.  Heat 2 tbsp oil in a non stick pan and stir fry the onions, celery, ginger, garlic, spring onions, chillies and coriander leaves till onions are glazed.  Add the mixed vegetables ans stir fry for 2 minutes.  Now add the mince and cook till brown.  If too dry add 1/4 cup water, salt to taste, bring to the boil and remove from fire.  Transfer to baking dish and spread evenly.  Top with a layer of mashed potato and dot with cheese.  Bake at 180 Degrees C or until cheese is melted and brown.  Serve hot with bread or chappathis.