Good Old Mince and Mash – A Comfort Food Classic
Few dishes rival the hearty, home-cooked goodness of mince and mash. This traditional British comfort food is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying—the perfect meal for a cozy night in. The combination of tender minced meat, silky mashed potatoes, and a deep, flavorful gravy makes it an all-time favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a nostalgic dish, this recipe guarantees a warm, wholesome meal packed with flavor.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔️ Simple Ingredients – Everything is easy to find and affordable.
✔️ Rich, Savory Flavors – A slow-cooked mince with a deeply flavored gravy.
✔️ Creamy, Buttery Mash – The perfect complement to the hearty mince.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Minced Meat
500g beef mince – The star of the dish, providing rich, meaty flavor. (Can be substituted with lamb or turkey for a twist.)
1 large onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
2 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the overall savory flavor.
2 medium carrots (diced) – Adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – Deepens the umami flavor and thickens the sauce.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings a tangy, slightly smoky richness.
500ml beef stock – Creates a flavorful, hearty gravy.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Infuses the dish with aromatic, earthy notes.
1 tablespoon flour – Helps to thicken the sauce for a perfect consistency.
Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For sautéing the ingredients.
For the Mashed Potatoes
1kg potatoes (Maris Piper or Yukon Gold) – The key to creamy, fluffy mash.
50g unsalted butter – Adds richness and a silky texture.
100ml milk (or cream) – Makes the mash smooth and luscious.
Salt to taste – Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Mince
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and carrots, cooking for another 3 minutes.
4. Brown the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and mix well.
7. Pour in the beef stock, stirring to combine.
8. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
1. Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks.
2. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Drain well, then return the potatoes to the pot.
4. Mash thoroughly, adding butter and warm milk gradually.
5. Season with salt and mix until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble & Serve
1. Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto a plate or bowl.
2. Ladle the rich, meaty mince over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.
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Pro Tips for the Best Mince and Mash
✅ Brown the mince well – This develops a deep, rich flavor.
✅ Let the gravy reduce – A thick, luscious sauce coats the mince perfectly.
✅ Use the right potatoes – High-starch potatoes create the fluffiest mash.
✅ Don’t rush the mashing – A smooth, creamy consistency makes all the difference.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty mince and mash with:
Steamed green beans for a fresh contrast.
Peas or buttered carrots to add sweetness.
A slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
A glass of red wine (like a Merlot or Shiraz) for an elevated experience.
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Why This Recipe Stands Out
This traditional mince and mash recipe is all about bold flavors, comforting textures, and easy preparation. It’s a budget-friendly, family-approved meal that never fails to impress. With simple ingredients and foolproof cooking techniques, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
So, next time you're craving a classic, satisfying dinner, give this good old mince and mash a try—you won’t regret it!
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