Authentic Homemade Pâté Chinois Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 lbs ground beef
1 medium-sized onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
In a large pan, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
While the meat is cooking, cook the potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until they are tender, about 20 minutes.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the frozen corn and peas to the meat mixture, stir to combine, and remove from heat.
In a large baking dish, layer the meat mixture on the bottom, followed by the mashed potatoes on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Allow the Pâté Chinois to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Large pan - for cooking the ground beef, onions, and garlic.
Large pot - for boiling the potatoes.
Baking dish - for layering and baking the Pâté Chinois.
Potato masher - for mashing the cooked potatoes.
Chef's knife - for dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.
Cutting board - for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons - for accurate measurement of ingredients.
Spatula - for stirring and mixing the meat and vegetable mixture.
Oven mitts - for handling hot baking dishes.

Recipe variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for added vegetables and flavor.
Replace the mashed potato topping with sweet potato mash for a twist.
Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy crust.
Try using different spices or herbs such as paprika, thyme, or rosemary to season the meat mixture.
For a meat-free version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or cooked quinoa.
Add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the meat mixture for an extra savory taste.
Make individual servings by using ramekins or muffin tins instead of a large baking dish.
Experiment with different types of crusts, such as puff pastry or phyllo dough.
For a gluten-free option, replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the mashed potatoes.

Recipe overview

Pâté Chinois is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner or gathering. Often compared to Shepherd's Pie, it's a staple in French Canadian cuisine, made with a savory layer of ground beef and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. This recipe is simple and straightforward, using common ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. You'll cook the beef and vegetables on the stove top, prepare a batch of homemade mashed potatoes, then assemble and bake the dish in the oven. The end result is a flavorful, satisfying meal with a beautiful presentation that's sure to impress. Enjoy this taste of Quebec at your own dining table.

Common questions

Can I substitute ground beef with another type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb if you prefer.
Can I use fresh corn and peas instead of frozen? Absolutely! If you have fresh corn and peas available, you can use them instead of frozen. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender before adding them to the meat mixture.
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the Pâté Chinois in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if the dish is cold when you put it in the oven.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the Pâté Chinois to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Pâté Chinois? Pâté Chinois is often served as a complete meal, but you can complement it with a side salad or steamed vegetables if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking dish - A large baking dish to layer and bake the Pâté Chinois.
Large pan - A pan to cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic.
Large pot - A pot to cook the potatoes.
Potato masher - A utensil to mash the cooked potatoes.

Origin stories

Pâté Chinois, directly translated to "Chinese Pie", is a classic Quebecois dish. Despite its name, the dish doesn’t have any known ties to Chinese cuisine. The name is believed to originate during the construction of the Canadian railroads in the late 19th century, where Asian cooks would prepare this affordable and nourishing dish for the workers. The hearty layers of meat, corn, and potatoes provided plenty of energy for the long, arduous days of work. Over time, it made its way into homes across Quebec and is now a beloved comfort food, often served during the cold winter months.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.