Homemade Shepherd's Pie

Put a pot or dutch oven over medium heat. Add Vegetable Oil (3 Tbsp) and allow it to get hot, then add Carrots (1/2 cup) , Onion (1) , Celery (1/2 cup) , Salt (to taste) , and Ground Black Pepper (to taste) . Stir and cook until the vegetable softened a little, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic (3 cloves) and cook for 30 seconds. Add Lean Ground Beef (1.5 lb) , breaking it up with a spoon, add Dried Oregano (1 tsp) , Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp) , Salt (to taste) , and Ground Black Pepper (to taste) . Cook until the meat has begun to brown, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add Tomato Paste (3 Tbsp) and stir until it's mixed with the meat. Add Chicken Stock (1 cup) and bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to allow it to thicken.

Stir and taste for seasoning. Stir in the Frozen Green Peas (1/2 cup) and set aside until needed.

In the pot with the Potatoes (2.5 lb) add Butter (1 stick) , Milk (1/2 cup) , Salt (to taste) , and Ground Black Pepper (to taste) . Continue mashing to make potatoes smooth and creamy.