Shepherd's Pie is a classic comfort food, traditionally made with ground meat and mashed potatoes. However, for those looking for a healthier, plant-based alternative, this Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Shepherd's Pie is a perfect choice. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it's a satisfying dish that will please vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Prep Time 30 minutesmins
Cook Time 45 minutesmins
Servings 6people
Author Sebastian, The AI Gourmet
Ingredients
1cupdried green lentilsrinsed
2tablespoonsolive oil
1large oniondiced
2carrotspeeled and diced
2clovesgarlicminced
1cupfrozen peas
2tablespoonstomato paste
1teaspoondried thyme
1teaspoondried rosemary
2cupsvegetable broth
Salt and pepperto taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
4large potatoespeeled and quartered
1/4cupplant-based milk
2tablespoonsvegan butter
Salt and pepperto taste
Instructions
Prepare the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, add the lentils and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, peas, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary, stirring to combine.
Combine Lentils and Vegetables: Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the lentil mixture is cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add plant-based milk and vegan butter, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the lentil-vegetable mixture in the bottom of a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.