Shepherd Pie and Pumpkin Chip Muffins
In the world of food, there are a number of dishes for which every family has its own recipe. Included among these is the classic shepherd’s pie. While the dish originated in the northern part of the British Isles, it’s a classic staple in Maine. Depending on where you are in the state, some call it “cottage pie.” Essentially, it’s made out of ground meat as a base with a thick layer of mashed potato on top in a casserole dish. Most recipes use creamed corn in between, while some argue that peas are the superior second layer.
Pumpkin season is also still here, and they can be used in all manner of recipes! Of course, the obligatory pumpkin pie is a must when it comes to Thanksgiving. Still, for more transportable and easier-to-portion food, pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are a great alternative or warm-up for the Thanksgiving season!
Shepherd Pie – Cooking Down East
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can creamed corn
- 4 or 5 medium-sized potatoes
Directions
Pare and cook potatoes in salted water—mash and season as for any mashed potatoes. In the meantime, cook hamburger in a small amount of fat in a frypan until it turns brown—season with salt and pepper.
Turn cooked hamburger into 1-1/2 quart casserole. Spread creamed corn all over the hamburger. Season corn. Top with mashed potato. Bake at 350 degrees [Fahrenheit (175 Celsius)], for 30 minutes. Serves 4.
Pumpkin Chip Muffins – Rhona Barrie, MASP
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 (16 oz.) can pumpkin
- 1-1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 3 cups flour
- 2 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Directions
Beat eggs, sugar, oil, pumpkin, and oil until smooth. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add to pumpkin mixture and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips.
Bake at 400 degrees [Fahrenheit (205 Celsius)] for 16 to 20 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan. Makes 24 standard-size muffins.