Guinness Shepherd'S Pie

Brown beef in a dutch oven or other large heavy saucepot over low to moderate heat. Allow to simmer until cooked throughout, about 5-10 minutes. Drain excess fat when cooked and add onion, carrots, garlic, stout, wine, broth, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, sage and marjoram.l Stir and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook 15 minutes or until carrots are fork tender. add peas.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux. Slowly incorporate roux into simmering beef mixture until desired thickness is achieved. (if mixture was simmered too long or cooked too high, less roux is needed.) Continue to cook for 5-10 minutes to allow roux and flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper. Remove to a 9 1/2in. round casserole dish or deep pie dish.
While meat is simmering, preheat over to 350 degrees and prepare Ulster Champ Topping.
Spoon Ulster Champ topping evenly over meat mixture, making irregular peaks with the back of a spoon. Alternatively, use a pastry bag and star tip to pipe potatoes over meat mixture. Bake for 20-30 mins or until topping is golden brown and crusty on edges and mixture is heated throughout.
If desired, place casserole under broiler for 1-2 mins to crisp topping, remove from oven, allow to cool slightly to set, and serve immediately from casserole dish. Serve with HP sauce, steak sauce or pan gravy, if desired.
NOTE: Pie can be cooked and served in individual baking dishes. Adjust final baking time as needed.