Coastal Comfort: Lobster Shepherd's Pie with Saffron Mashed Potatoes

Dive into the luxurious Coastal Comfort with a dish that transforms the traditional shepherd's pie into a seaside delight. This rendition features succulent lobster meat nestled in a savory sauce, crowned with a golden layer of saffron-infused mashed potatoes. The inclusion of saffron not only adds a beautiful hue but also imparts a subtle, exquisite flavor that enhances the creamy potatoes, making this dish a true celebration of coastal flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this lobster shepherd's pie is a sophisticated twist on a classic, promising to transport you to the shores with every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Lobster Filling:

- 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped

- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 cup seafood or chicken broth

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup frozen peas

- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Saffron Mashed Potatoes:

- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered

- 1 pinch saffron threads

- 1/2 cup warm milk

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

- Salt to taste

 

Instructions:

Lobster Filling:

1. Prepare the Filling:

   - In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

   - Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat. Gradually add the broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.

   - Add the lobster meat, frozen peas, and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for a few minutes until heated through. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.

 

Saffron Mashed Potatoes:

1. Cook the Potatoes:

   - Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

2. Infuse the Milk:

   - While the potatoes are cooking, steep the saffron in the warm milk for a few minutes to release its color and flavor.

3. Mash the Potatoes:

   - Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the saffron-infused milk and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.

 

Assembly and Baking:

- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Spread the saffron mashed potatoes over the lobster filling in the baking dish. Use a fork to create ridges on top.

- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.

 

Serving:

Serve the Coastal Comfort: Lobster Shepherd's Pie with Saffron Mashed Potatoes hot from the oven. This dish is a celebration of indulgence, combining the comfort of shepherd's pie with the luxury of lobster, making it an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a night of gourmet comfort food, this lobster shepherd's pie promises to be a dish you'll return to time and again.