Ox cheek cottage pie is a twist on the classic British dish, using tender beef cheeks for amazing flavor. This dish is perfect for cold winter nights and will satisfy your comfort food cravings. Let’s review my ox cheek cottage pie recipe.
The meat is braised until it’s so tender it falls apart. Then, it’s topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. This results in a rich, deeply flavored dish that’s ideal for cold nights.
It may take time to make, but it’s definitely worth it. Serve it with some green vegetables for a complete, comforting meal.
Where Can I Buy Ox Cheeks?
Finding ox cheeks might take some extra effort. But, they’re getting more common at specialty butchers and high-end grocery stores. If you can’t find them, don’t worry. There are great substitutes that can make your dish just as tasty.
What Can I Use Instead of Ox Cheeks?
Can’t find ox cheeks? Try using chuck roast or brisket instead. These cuts become tender when slow-cooked, just like ox cheeks. They add rich flavor and texture to your cottage pie.
Here are some other great options for cottage pie:
- Beef short ribs
- Beef shanks
- Oxtail
Just pick a cut that can handle long cooking times. This ensures the meat is tender and full of flavor.
What Side Dishes Go With Ox Cheek Cottage Pie?
When serving ox cheek cottage pie, it’s important to balance its richness. Choose lighter, fresher side dishes to complement it. These help cut through the slow-cooked beef’s intensity.
Roasted vegetables are a classic choice. Try roasting carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash. Their sweetness and caramelized edges contrast nicely with the savory meat and potatoes.
A simple green salad is also great. It offers a refreshing contrast to the cottage pie’s richness. Add a bright vinaigrette dressing to cleanse your palate between bites.
Steamed or sautéed greens like kale, spinach, or broccolini are excellent too. They add mild, earthy flavors without overpowering the ox cheek. Plus, they’re nutritious.
Finally, don’t forget something to soak up the gravy. Crusty bread, buttery mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta are perfect. They make the meal even more comforting.
Ox Cheek Cottage Pie Recipe
Making a delicious ox cheek cottage pie is a rewarding task. It’s a hearty dish with tender ox cheeks, a rich filling, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for warming up on a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ox cheeks, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ox cheek cubes and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned ox cheek to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the beef stock, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the browned ox cheek to the pot.
- Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the ox cheek for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaves. Shred the ox cheek with two forks and stir it back into the cooking liquid.
- In a separate pot, boil the potato chunks in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with the milk and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the shredded ox cheek filling to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
- Bake the cottage pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove the cottage pie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
This recipe for ox cheek cottage pie is sure to become a favorite. It combines tender ox cheek, aromatic vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor the rich flavors.
Final Thoughts
The ox cheek cottage pie is a unique take on a beloved dish. The beef cheeks are slow-cooked until they’re tender and full of flavor. This makes the dish a true comfort food delight.
It’s perfect for a family dinner or a small party. The combination of tender meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and a golden crust is sure to impress. It’s a meal that will leave everyone wanting more.
This dish is worth the effort to make. It’s especially great on cold nights. Add some green veggies for a complete meal that will impress your guests.
This recipe is part of my 119 Hearty Winter Recipes You’ll Love When It Gets Cold. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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