Hearty Lentil Shepherd's Pie (Vegetarian)
This vegetarian Shepherd's Pie is a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any day, especially during the Lenten season. A rich and flavorful base of protein-packed lentils, carrots, peas, and corn is simmered in a savory herb-infused tomato sauce. This comforting filling is then crowned with a smooth, fluffy layer of golden mashed potatoes, baked until bubbly and lightly browned. It's a deeply flavorful and nourishing dish that even meat-eaters will love.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). For the filling: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried thyme, and rosemary to the pot. 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.
- 3Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 5 more minutes until heated through. Taste and season the lentil filling with salt and black pepper as needed. Transfer the filling to a 2-liter (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- 4For the mashed potato topping: Place peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- 5Return drained potatoes to the hot pot. Add warmed milk (or alternative), butter (or alternative), garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- 6Carefully spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the lentil filling in the baking dish. You can create decorative peaks with a fork. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie (filling and topping) and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I add for extra flavor to the lentil filling?
For an even richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (ensure vegetarian/vegan) to the lentil filling. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can also brighten the flavors.
How can I make the mashed potato topping crispier?
For a crispier topping, after spreading the mashed potatoes, you can lightly brush them with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking. You can also finish it under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
