Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd's Pie (Vegetarian)
This vegetarian Shepherd's Pie offers all the warmth and heartiness of the traditional dish, but with a robust and flavorful lentil and vegetable base. Brown lentils are simmered with carrots, peas, corn, and savory herbs in a rich tomato broth, then topped with a generous layer of fluffy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. It's a perfect wholesome meal for a cool March evening, packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Prepare the Lentil Filling: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2Simmer Lentils: Stir in rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir in frozen peas and corn, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 3Make Mashed Potatoes: While lentils simmer, place peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well. Return potatoes to the hot pot, add milk and butter, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4Assemble the Pie: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If your lentil filling pot is not oven-safe, transfer the lentil mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the lentil filling. You can use a fork to create decorative ridges on top.
- 5Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- 6Serve: Let the pie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving hot.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red lentils?
Red lentils cook faster and can become mushy; brown or green lentils hold their shape better in this dish. If using red, reduce cooking time.
How can I make the mashed potato topping extra flavorful?
You can add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the mashed potatoes, or even a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie (without baking) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
