Cookbook:French Canadian Shepherd's Pie (Pâté Chinois)

| Meat Recipes

Pâté chinois (Chinese pie) is a traditional French Canadian main course, and is often served during the cold months of the year. It is typically served with pickled beets.

Ingredients

 * 8 medium fresh whole white potatoes
 * 2 lbs ground beef
 * 1 small yellow or Spanish onion, chopped
 * 1 small green bell pepper (optional), chopped
 * 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained, or creamed sweet corn with sauce
 * 2 tbsp butter
 * ½ cup milk
 * Salt
 * Pepper

Procedure

 * 1) Boil potatoes in lightly salted water until soft, drain. Mash potatoes, adding 2 tbsp butter and just enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency. Set aside.
 * 2) Brown ground beef with onions and peppers. Drain fat and put ground beef mixture in bottom of casserole dish.
 * 3) Mix creamed corn and whole kernel corn, then spread over beef.
 * 4) Spread the mashed potatoes across the top to form a 'crust'. Lightly sprinkle with paprika, and salt/pepper to taste, and make tracks with a fork, if desired.
 * 5) Bake uncovered at 400°F until the potatoes are golden brown (approximately 30 minutes).
 * 6) Serve hot with a generous portion of sliced chilled pickled beets.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Mix ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese with potatoes, or place shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of potatoes before cooking.
 * See also Shepherd's Pie.