Would Shepherds Pie be a novelty to American visitors?

[GrapefruitMoon]

We have some elderly relatives visiting the UK soon & they are coming to us for dinner one night - I am struggling to think what to cook, esp as I will need to do it in advance as I will be out & about with them during the day....

So Shepherds Pie is one thing I was thinking of as I think it's not too common there - but would like any US MNetters to confirm!

Tbh I would prefer to do something a bit fancier (eg was also thinking of lamb shanks done in red wine in the slow cooker while we are out) but none of the things I normally cook seem to fit the bill and I am a bit scared to do something I've never tried before!

[BlueKangerooWonders]

Great idea - comfort food that will suit all. My (US) mother-in-law makes something similar but calls it 'hobo stew', she'd never heard of shepherds pie even with her having an English grandmother!

[BananaPudding]

Yes, I think that it would be something new, or at least uncommon to them. I might subtly inquire if they like lamb, and if not perhaps do cottage pie. Lamb is definetely not as popular here as it is in the uk.

Or a roast with Yorkshire pudding. That is sure to be a novelty!

[GrapefruitMoon]

I'm pretty sure they eat lamb. Can't do roast as we'll be out all so may not have time to cook it (unless I cheat and get some small joints from M&S!)

[vinblanc]

Americans love both ground meat and mashed potatoes, so should love a tasty shepherd's pie.

[AmazingBouncingFerret]

Or toad in the hole, friends from overseas are always impressed with that one!

[BananaPudding]

I do roast in my slow cooker

[GrapefruitMoon]

I did think of that BP but didn't want to try it out for the first time on them!

[BigGitDad]

In met some ladies from Texas who loved custard as they had never had that before so may be have that for puding with spotted dick or something similar.

[GrapefruitMoon]

My other main course idea was a simplified version of coq au vin... if I combine that with spotted dick they may get worried!

[nicki116]

I second custard and yorkshires (well not together, just to add to the menu). My DH is American and he had not tasted them before coming over here. They are usually well liked.

[CommonNortherner]

My American in-laws are still in awe of my shepherd's pie, they think it is marvellous and unique food!!

[mathanxiety]

Steak and kidney pie recommended if you really want to serve a meal they'll remember ...