My toddler-approved mince and tatties take things back to basics, with traditional flavours and a hint of sweetness from carrot, shallots and plum tomatoes that the whole family will love. My version is also gluten free, swapping flour for cornstarch and gravy granules for chicken stock.
Step 1
If you're making your own mash, start by peeling your potatoes and cut them into small equally sized cubes. Leave these chunks to soak in a bowl or pot of cold water and grab your shallots.
Step 2
Peel and finely dice your shallots and mince your garlic.
Fry the shallots in a little olive oil with a generous grind of black pepper on medium low for around 5 minutes.
Step 3
Once the shallots are slightly golden round the edges, toss in your garlic along with a splash of water.
Fry, stirring, for a minute or so until the water has evaporated.
Step 4
Add your mince.
I like to use frozen mince as a toddler-approved choice (at least in my house) as it makes for a smoother sauce. It also defrosts super quickly in the pan.
Stir and turn up the heat. Cook for around 7 minutes, stirring only occasionally, until the mince has almost completely browned.
Then add your half tin of peeled plum tomatoes...
and stir!
Step 5
Add one and a half cups of water along with your bayleaf, lower the heat and start a 15 minute timer.
Straight after, if making your own mash, drain the cold water from your potatoes, put them in a pot and cover with fresh cold water and a pinch of salt. Turn the heat up high to bring them to a boil, then get back to your mince.
Step 6
Add your chicken stock pot and chopped carrots to your mince.
Keep at a medium simmer while you make a cornstarch slurry.
Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water in a glass or small bowl until a smooth slurry is formed. Pour into your mince and stir.
Step 7
When your timer goes off, taste the mince and add sea salt to taste.
If making this dish for a baby under 12 months old, you can skip the salt here, and even opt for low salt broth in place of regular chicken stock if you wish.
Step 8
Your potato cubes should be fork-tender by now. Drain them in a colander, then pop them back in their pot along with your milk and butter. Season as you wish.
I like to add salt, pepper and some english mustard for colour and flavour.
And now you're ready to serve up your toddler-approved mince and tatties! Enjoy!
