Shepherd's pie will be way tastier with one unusual ingredient

As the weather grows colder and the days become shorter, few dishes offer the warmth and comfort of a classic shepherd's pie. Traditionally made with minced lamb, hearty vegetables, and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes along with some Worcestershire sauce, there is one suprising ingredient that can take this meal to the next level entirely. There is one surprising ingredient, however, that can take your shepherd's pie from good to unforgettable in mere seconds.

Though it might seem strange to some at first, adding miso paste will give a depth of flavour that effortlessly transforms the dish. According to food website, Chowhoud, the miso, being made out of fermented soybeans, salt, and koji, adds "major umami flavour", and an "intensely savoury flavour" to the shepherd's pie.

Umami, often described as the 'fifth taste,' enhances existing flavours and adds a lingering, satisfying richness that elevates the dish.

The food experts at Chowhound suggest stirring the miso in after your minced meat and vegetables have started to cook. For those wanting even more umami, a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce can be added as well.

The mashed potato topping can also benefit from a small amount of miso, though it's important to not use too much always it can become overpowering due to its strong taste. No more than 1.5 tablespoons for the entire pie is recommended.

Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning known not only for its distinctive flavour but also its health benefits. According to BBC Good Food, miso is rich in antioxidants and contains beneficial bacteria produced during fermentation, which may support immunity, digestion and gut health. Some even say it could help fight against certain cancers including breast cancer and with bone and heart health as well.

Even celebrity chefs are embracing miso in shepherd's pie recipes. Simon Rimmer, famous for his Sunday Brunch recipes on Channel 4, incorporates miso along with lamb mince, finely diced onion, carrot, and a hint of Marsala wine, serving it with mashed potatoes and pickled red cabbage for a modern twist.

The recipe, which has been shared on Instagram by the account, sundaybrunchfood, which features Simon Rimmer's creations with its 290K followers, has been well received by home cooks.

One person commented: "Not a fan of lamb mince but add the miso and wow! Won't be going back now!!! Thanks for the tip!"

Another Instagram user wrote: "I made this, it was so gorgeous whole family loved it."