Shepherd's pie is a savory dish that typically consists of minced or ground meat, such as lamb or beef, topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. The name "Shepherd's pie" has historical roots and can be attributed to the traditional ingredients used in the dish.
The term "shepherd" refers to someone who herds and tends to sheep. In the case of Shepherd's pie, the dish is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom, particularly in the rural areas where sheep farming was prevalent. Shepherds were responsible for tending to the flocks of sheep, and it is said that they would often use the leftovers of a roasted meat dinner to make a new meal the following day.
The pie was traditionally made with minced or ground leftover roasted lamb, as lamb was commonly consumed in the UK. The shepherd's pie was a way for shepherds to make efficient use of the remaining meat by combining it with other ingredients like onions, vegetables, and gravy, and then topping it with mashed potatoes. The mashed potato layer served as a practical and economical way to use up leftover potatoes as well.
Over time, the name "Shepherd's pie" became associated with this particular meat and potato dish, regardless of the type of meat used. It has become a popular and comforting dish enjoyed by many, even if it is made with different variations and adaptations in different regions.
It is worth noting that if the dish is made with ground beef instead of lamb, it is often referred to as "Cottage pie." This distinction is mainly based on the use of lamb (shepherd) versus beef (cottage) as the primary meat ingredient.