There is nothing better in the world than a big old plate of comfort food, and what sounds more comforting than a heaping mound of meat and potatoes? UM, nothing. Shepherds pie is like the staple of what I consider to be comfort food. It is rich and savory and makes me feel good inside. Now if only there was a way to maintain all that delicious flavor and warm comfort while disseminating all the excess fat and calories. Oh wait! There is. After much research and experiments I created the perfect healthy version of shepherds pie … because let’s face it, what is life without it.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets or 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp ghee or coconut oil
- 1 tsp spicy mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, to garnish
- For the bottom layer
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 lb. lean ground turkey
- 2 large tomatos (diced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground clove
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Place a couple inches of water in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, place steamer insert and then cauliflower florets into the pot and cover. Steam for 12-14 minutes, until tender. Drain and return cauliflower to the pot. You can follow the same process for the sweet potato.
- Add the ghee/coconut oil, mustard, salt, and pepper to the cauliflower/sweet potato. Using an immersion blender or food processor, combine the ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté for 5 minutes. Add in the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomatoes, chicken broth, and remaining spices into the meat mixture. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Distribute the meat mixture evenly in an oven pan and spread the pureed cauliflower/sweet potato on top. Use a fork to create texture in the cauliflower/sweet potato and drizzle with avocado oil. Place under the broiler for 5-7 minutes until the top turns golden. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve.
