Hearty Shepherd's Pie

Shepherd’s Pie (a.k.a. Cottage Pie) was a common casserole dating back to the early 1800’s when potatoes were a staple for the poor. This casserole used leftover minced meat--beef in Cottage Pie and lamb or mutton in Shepherd’s Pie--then potatoes as a crust. Today, Shepherd’s Pie generally refers to a casserole made of meat and mashed potatoes. This hearty veggie version is like a thick stew topped with mashed potatoes.