Malay-Spiced Shepherd's Pie

200g lean ground beef or lamb 150g sweet potatoes (for mash) 1/4 cup diced onions 1 garlic clove, minced 1 small red chili, finely chopped 1 tbsp sambal oelek 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp reduced-fat coconut milk 1/2 cup green beans, chopped 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium) 1 tsp lime juice 1 tsp vegetable oil Salt and pepper to taste

A harmonious fusion of traditional British shepherd's pie with vibrant Malay spices and ingredients, creating a healthy and flavorful dish. This recipe blends the comforting texture of mashed potatoes with aromatic rendang-inspired minced meat and sambal-infused vegetables.

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). 2. Peel, cube, and boil sweet potatoes until soft (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with coconut milk, a pinch of salt, and pepper; set aside. 3. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and red chili until fragrant. 4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned. 5. Stir in turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, sambal oelek, and soy sauce. Cook for 5 minutes to develop flavors. 6. Add chopped green beans and cook for another 3 minutes until slightly tender. 7. Add lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. 8. Transfer the meat mixture to a small oven-safe dish. Spread mashed sweet potato evenly on top. 9. Bake for 15 minutes or until the top is slightly golden. 10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.