Savoury Mince

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Growing up, savoury mince was a weeknight staple in my house. It’s one of those comforting dishes that somehow tastes like a warm hug — simple, hearty, and endlessly adaptable. I’ve always loved how this recipe turns humble ingredients like ground beef and mixed vegetables into something truly satisfying. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or even spooned into a crusty bread roll, savoury mince just works.

I still make it regularly, especially when I need to clear out the fridge or prep a few make-ahead meals for the week. It’s budget-friendly, packed with flavour, and comes together with minimal fuss. That’s the magic of savoury mince — it’s both nostalgic and practical, and it never fails to bring everyone back to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Savoury Mince

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with vegetables, and incredibly flexible. You can keep it classic or switch it up with your own favorite add-ins. It also keeps well, making it a smart option for meal prep or freezer meals. Most importantly, it’s deliciously rich and comforting — everything you want from a homestyle dinner.

What Kind of Mince Should I Use?

I recommend using beef mince (ground beef) for a traditional taste, preferably with some fat content for flavour. However, lean beef works just as well if you’re watching your fat intake. You could also try turkey mince or even plant-based mince alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have peas? Swap them out for corn or chopped green beans. No beef? Use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb. You can also switch up the seasonings — a bit of Worcestershire sauce adds depth, while soy sauce can introduce a richer umami flavour. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari or coconut aminos instead.

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Ingredients for this Savoury Mince

• Ground beef (mince): The star of the dish, providing hearty protein and a rich, meaty flavor. Choose 80-85% lean for a balance of taste and texture.
• Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Brings a sharp, savory note that complements the meat beautifully.
• Carrots: Provide a natural sweetness and slight crunch.
• Green peas: For freshness, color, and a pop of texture.
• Celery (optional): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle earthy flavor.
• Beef stock or broth: Creates a flavorful, saucy base for the mince.
• Tomato paste: Adds umami richness and thickens the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings in a tangy, savory depth that elevates the overall taste.
• Flour or cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the mixture if needed.
• Salt and pepper: To season and balance the flavor.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing the aromatics and browning the beef.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley): Optional, for garnish and a fresh finish.

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Mince

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly until no pink remains, and any liquid released has evaporated.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots, celery (if using), and green peas. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften slightly. This step ensures everything gets evenly cooked and nicely coated with the beef juices.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to coat the mixture evenly. Pour in the beef stock and bring everything to a simmer. Allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to develop.

Step 5: Thicken If Needed

If the sauce feels too runny, dissolve a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch in a little water and stir it into the skillet. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer for a final 5 minutes. Finish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, toast, or pasta.

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How Long to Prepare the Savoury Mince

Prep Time: The preparation is quick and straightforward. Chopping the vegetables and gathering your ingredients should take around 10–15 minutes. If you’re a fast chopper or using pre-cut veggies, it’ll be even faster.

Cook Time: From browning the beef to simmering the sauce, you’ll spend about 20–25 minutes cooking. This means the entire dish is ready in just about 35–40 minutes — ideal for busy nights when you still want a wholesome, home-cooked meal.

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Tips for Perfect Savoury Mince

• Don’t rush browning the mince — letting it caramelize adds flavor.
• Use fresh garlic and onion for the most aromatic base.
• Simmer long enough for the flavors to meld, but not too long to overcook the veggies.
• Taste and season at the end to adjust saltiness and richness.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of soy sauce to deepen the flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoned mince tastes flat. Salt in layers — during browning, simmering, and at the end.
• Using too much liquid: Too much broth can water down the flavor. Stick to the recipe or reduce excess liquid by simmering longer.
• Overcooking vegetables: Add peas toward the end to keep them vibrant and not mushy.
• Not thickening the sauce properly: If the sauce is runny, a cornstarch slurry or flour can fix that.

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What to Serve With Savoury Mince?

1. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The savoury sauce soaks into the mash beautifully.

2. Steamed Rice

Simple and effective, white or brown rice adds texture and makes it a hearty meal.

3. Buttered Noodles

Egg noodles or pasta work well to soak up the flavours of the mince.

4. Crusty Bread

Great for scooping or sopping up every last bit of the rich sauce.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Pair with a tray of oven-roasted veggies like zucchini, pumpkin, or Brussels sprouts for a full, wholesome plate.

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Storage Instructions

Fridge: Let the mince cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.

Freezer: This is a freezer-friendly dish. Spoon the cooled mince into ziplock bags or freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened in storage.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings, using 85% lean beef):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this mince vegetarian?

Use plant-based mince and vegetable broth. Everything else stays the same!

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try chopped zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn — just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Yes, it scales beautifully. Just make sure your pan is large enough so the meat browns properly.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work great and save time. No need to thaw — just toss them in during the veggie step.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute with soy sauce, tamari, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

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Conclusion

Savoury mince is the ultimate fuss-free comfort food that fits into any weeknight routine. It’s nourishing, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable — perfect for using up leftovers or making ahead. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time with rich, homey flavours that hit the spot. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your kitchen too.

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