Introduction
Welcome to a delightful fusion of tradition and modern flavors with our Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. This hearty and wholesome dish brings the comforts of classic shepherd’s pie but with a plant-based twist that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The savory lentil and vegetable filling, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, makes it an irresistible meal that embodies creativity and togetherness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, this Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is sure to be a hit!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring the lentils and vegetable broth to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, and black pepper to the skillet. Mix well.
- Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer the lentil and vegetable mixture to a large, oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the lentil mixture, spreading them out into an even layer. For a rustic look, rough up the surface of the potatoes with a fork.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Helpful Tips
For a creamier mashed potato topping, consider adding a bit of cream or butter while mashing the potatoes. You can also substitute the lentils with minced meat or a mixture of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for different variations. To save time, you can use pre-cooked lentils or canned lentils. The Lentil Shepherd’s Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Pairings & Complementary Dishes
This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables for a perfect fall meal. To drink, consider a robust red wine or a warm apple cider to complement the savory flavors of the pie.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this flavorful and comforting Lentil Shepherd’s Pie as much as we do. Share your creations with us on social media using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment on our website at Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for updates and follow us on social media for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!
