Cottage Pie Vs Shepherds Pie And Cumberland Pie
If you're a fan of traditional British cuisine, you've probably heard of these delicious pies: Cottage Pie, Shepherds Pie, and Cumberland Pie. These hearty pies are all made with a crust of mashed potatoes and meat filling, but there are some key differences between them. In this article, we'll explore the history and characteristics of each of these pies.
What is Cottage Pie?
Cottage Pie is a classic British dish that originated in the 18th century. It was originally made with leftover meat from a Sunday roast, minced and mixed with vegetables such as carrots and onions, and topped with mashed potatoes. The dish was so named because it was commonly eaten by rural workers who lived in cottages.
Today, Cottage Pie is typically made with minced beef or lamb, although it can also be made with other meats such as pork or venison. The meat is cooked with vegetables and a gravy made from stock, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. The mixture is then topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown.
What is Shepherds Pie?
Shepherds Pie is similar to Cottage Pie, but it is traditionally made with minced lamb instead of beef. The dish is said to have originated in Scotland or Northern England, where sheep farming is common. The name "Shepherds Pie" is thought to have come from the fact that shepherds were the ones who tended to the sheep and therefore had easy access to the meat.
Like Cottage Pie, Shepherds Pie is made with a meat and vegetable filling, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked until golden brown. The filling is typically made with minced lamb, onions, carrots, and peas, and seasoned with herbs such as rosemary and thyme.
What is Cumberland Pie?
Cumberland Pie is a lesser-known British pie that originated in the county of Cumberland (now part of Cumbria) in the 18th century. It is similar to Cottage Pie and Shepherds Pie, but it also includes a layer of sliced potatoes and cheese.
The filling of Cumberland Pie is typically made with minced beef or lamb, onions, carrots, and peas, and seasoned with herbs such as parsley and thyme. The meat mixture is then layered with sliced potatoes and grated cheese, and topped with mashed potatoes before being baked until golden brown.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – Cottage Pie, Shepherds Pie, and Cumberland Pie. Although these pies are similar in many ways, they each have their own unique characteristics and history. Whether you prefer the beefy goodness of Cottage Pie, the lamb-filled comfort of Shepherds Pie, or the cheesy goodness of Cumberland Pie, there's no denying that these pies are a delicious part of British cuisine.
