Introduction
Hachis Parmentier is a French dish similar to shepherd’s pie, featuring layers of seasoned ground beef topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. This version of the dish is prepared on the Arteflame grill, giving the beef and mashed potatoes a subtle smoky flavor and crispy texture. It’s a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Beef Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef stock or red wine
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional for garnish)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (warmed)
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Start by lighting the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins and firewood. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches a medium-high heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and warm milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef Mixture
On the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill, heat olive oil in a grill-safe skillet or cast iron pan. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Deglaze the pan with beef stock or red wine, simmering until most of the liquid evaporates, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Hachis Parmentier
In a grill-safe baking dish, spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef and spread them out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Grill the Hachis Parmentier
Place the dish on the outer flat cooktop of the grill, where the heat is moderate. Cover the dish with foil and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
Step 6: Serve
Once the top is golden and crispy, remove the Hachis Parmentier from the grill. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve hot with a green salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
Tips
- Beef Options: Use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor, or substitute with ground lamb for a variation.
- Extra Creamy Potatoes: For creamier mashed potatoes, stir in extra butter or a dollop of sour cream.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the Hachis Parmentier ahead of time, then grill it just before serving.
Variations
- Lamb Hachis Parmentier: Substitute the beef with ground lamb for a richer, more savory flavor.
- Vegetarian Hachis Parmentier: Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Cheesy Hachis Parmentier: Mix shredded cheese into the mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy topping.
- Spicy Hachis Parmentier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Truffle Hachis Parmentier: Drizzle truffle oil over the mashed potatoes before grilling for a luxurious touch.
Best Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans to balance the richness of the dish.
- Drinks: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the beefy flavors.
Conclusion
Grilled Hachis Parmentier on the Arteflame grill is a comforting and delicious take on a classic French dish. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the richness of the beef and the creaminess of the mashed potatoes, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
