In this week’s Seasonal Pantry, which you can read here, I talk about some of the differences between upstairs food and downstairs food, as seen in the classic Masterpiece drama “Upstairs Downstairs” and the hugely popular “Downton Abbey,” which started its third season this last Sunday evening. Interestingly, Sunday’s plot turned–in part–on food.
If you like "Downton Abbey," you'll love "Upstairs Downstairs," which is available for live streaming via netflix. Here, James and Hazel Bellamy share a tender moment near the conclusion of their stormy marriage.
These days, the lines are blurred, though more so in the United States than in England, which was true back then, as well. We’ve always been a more rugged country, with fewer class distinctions than in England. Still, they exist and if you pay attention, you’ll start spotting them. Can you think of any now? If so, please take a minute to share them in the comments section below.
In Shepherd's Pie, mashed potatoes make the crust.
Cottage Pie, with a Variation for Shepherd’s Pie
In Cottage Pie, sliced potatoes are layered on top, like the shingles of a country cottage.
