Imagine a dish that combines the hearty warmth of a classic shepherd's pie with the nutritious power of plant-based ingredients. This Vegetable Lentil Shepherd's Pie is not just a meal - it's a culinary adventure that will transform your perception of comfort food forever! Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy potato topping, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner that satisfies both veggie lovers and traditional comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, corn, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain. In a large saucepan, combine lentils with vegetable broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer lentils for 20 minutes or until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables become soft and onions are translucent.
- Add mixed vegetables (peas, corn) to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cooked lentils, mixing thoroughly.
- Season the vegetable-lentil mixture with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Prepare mashed potatoes by boiling potatoes until tender, then mashing with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the vegetable-lentil base, creating an even layer. Use a fork to create decorative peaks on the potato surface.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your vegetable lentil shepherd's pie.
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: Make sure to rinse your lentils thoroughly and avoid overcooking. You want them tender but not mushy to maintain the perfect texture.
- Potato Pro Tip: For the creamiest mashed potato topping, use warm milk and butter, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Flavor Boost: Don't be afraid to add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary to the vegetable-lentil mixture for additional depth of flavor.
- Golden Brown Hack: For an extra crispy top, brush the mashed potatoes with a little melted butter before baking, or use the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to create beautiful golden peaks.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to swap out mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
