Discover the delightful flavors of "Shepherdless Pie ala Nancy Adkins," a heartwarming vegetarian twist on a classic comfort dish that will leave your taste buds dancing! Packed with wholesome lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish promises to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Shepherdless Pie!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups lentils, cooked
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Incorporate diced carrots into the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add cooked lentils, peas, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine and allow flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the lentil and vegetable mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the lentil mixture, creating an even layer that completely covers the bottom layer.
- Use a fork to create decorative ridges on the potato surface, which will crisp up beautifully during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Serve hot, portioning into six equal servings as a hearty vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Prepping Your Ingredients: To save time, chop your vegetables and cook the lentils ahead of time. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the lentil mixture for an extra layer of flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the dish's richness.
- Perfect Mashed Potatoes: For the mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier texture. Adding a bit of butter and cream will make the topping even more decadent.
- Crispy Topping: Don't skip the decorative fork ridges on the potato layer; they not only look great but also help create a crispy texture when baked.
- Resting Time: Allow the pie to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Shepherdless Pie with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
