Vegan Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

There’s something truly magical about coming together around the dinner table, especially when the dish itself is a comforting embrace of flavors. This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in harmony. With its rich layers of savory lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a cloud of golden mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or any time you want to share a nourishing, delicious meal with loved ones. The best part? It’s entirely plant-based, making it a heart-warming and cruelty-free choice that everyone will adore.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup canned lentils, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Sea salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegan butter
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot. Add the vegan butter and plant-based milk, mashing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and peas, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, tomato paste, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
5. Spread the lentil-vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them out with a spatula to create an even layer.
6. Use a fork to create small peaks in the mashed potatoes, facilitating a golden, crispy top when baked.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips

– For a quicker option, use pre-cooked lentils. You can find them canned or in the refrigerator section of your grocery store.

– To add more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or vegan Worcestershire sauce to the lentil mixture.

– If you prefer a creamier mashed potato layer, increase the amount of plant-based milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage Instructions and Ingredient Substitutions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This shepherd’s pie also freezes well; simply wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until thoroughly warmed.

If you don’t have lentils on hand, chickpeas or black beans can be used as a substitute. Any root vegetables, such as parsnips or sweet potatoes, can also be added to the vegetable layer for variety and added nutrition.

Pairings

This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. A side of warm, crusty bread makes for a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. For drinks, a glass of light red wine or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the flavors brilliantly.

At Zynahz, we believe that cooking is the heart of the home, bringing with it a sense of joy and creative expression. We hope this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie recipe adds a sprinkle of happiness to your dining table, inspiring delightful moments with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us at Zynahz. Follow us on social media, and join our newsletter for more delicious recipes that make your kitchen a space of love and creativity.