Caribou Shepherd's Pie
Caribou Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
Savory caribou and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes creates the ultimate comfort food. This one-dish meal is perfect for feeding families while using economical ground caribou.
Cultural Context
Shepherd's pie represents British comfort food adapted to northern ingredients, becoming a staple in Canadian and Alaskan homes. The dish transforms affordable ground caribou into satisfying family dinner that stretches meat while providing complete nutrition.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
*For Filling
*For Topping
3Cooking Instructions
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Potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
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Meat: Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown caribou, breaking it up, about 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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Vegetables: In same pan, cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened, 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
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Building Filling: Return meat to pan. Add tomato paste and cook 2 minutes. Sprinkle with flour and stir to coat.
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Liquid: Add stock, Worcestershire, and thyme. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in peas. Season with salt and pepper.
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Assembly: Transfer filling to 9x13 baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over top. Sprinkle with cheese.
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Baking: Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling.
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Resting: Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- Ground caribou is leaner than beef - don't overcook
- Make ahead and bake when ready
- Kids love this dish
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for quick assembly
Wine Pairing
Hearty Côtes du Rhône or Malbec complements the savory filling and creamy potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 485 calories, 32g protein, 22g fat, 38g carbohydrates. Complete meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
