Alligator Shepherd's Pie
Alligator Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
Cultural Context
This comfort food classic demonstrates how alligator can be seamlessly substituted for traditional ground meat in beloved family recipes. The dish represents the practical, economical cooking of American families who adapted familiar recipes to incorporate whatever protein was available, creating satisfying meals that pleased all ages.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
3Cooking Instructions
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Potato Preparation: Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
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Meat Browning: Brown ground alligator and pork in large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up clumps. Cook until no pink remains.
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Vegetable Base: Add onion, carrots, and celery to meat. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
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Aromatics: Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking 1 minute until fragrant.
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Liquid Addition: Add stock, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer until liquid reduces and thickens, about 10 minutes.
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Pea Addition: Stir in frozen peas and cook 2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
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Assembly: Transfer meat mixture to buttered 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
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Decoration: Use fork to create decorative ridges in potato topping. Brush with beaten egg for golden color.
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Baking: Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around edges.
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Service: Let rest 10 minutes before serving to allow layers to set properly.
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- Make sure meat mixture isn't too wet or it will make bottom soggy
- The egg wash creates beautiful golden color on potato topping
- Can be assembled ahead and baked when needed
Wine Pairing
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or CĂ´tes du RhĂ´ne complements the hearty, comfort-food nature of shepherd's pie.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 445 calories, 28g protein, 18g fat, 42g carbohydrates. Complete comfort meal with unique protein.
