Savory Lentil Shepherds Pie (Printable)
A rich blend of lentils and vegetables with creamy mashed potatoes enhances comfort and warmth.
# Ingredient List:
→ Lentil Filling
01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
07 - 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
08 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
09 - 2 teaspoons dried thyme
10 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 3 cups vegetable broth
13 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
14 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
15 - 1 cup frozen peas
16 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Mashed Potato Topping
17 - 2 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
18 - 3 tablespoons vegan butter
19 - 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
20 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
04 - Add mushrooms and cook for 3 more minutes. Stir in lentils, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika.
05 - Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Stir in frozen peas. Season the filling with salt and black pepper to taste.
07 - Drain potatoes and return to the pot. Add vegan butter and non-dairy milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
08 - Spread the lentil filling evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the filling and smooth with a spatula.
09 - Use a fork to create ridges on the potato surface. Bake for 20 minutes. For a golden crust, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end.
10 - Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This pie manages to feel indulgent without any meat or dairy, which feels like a little secret shared among friends.
- The combination of earthy lentils and creamy mashed potatoes quickly became a comforting classic for cold evenings.
02 -
- Rinsing lentils thoroughly prevents grit and helps them absorb flavors better.
- Simmering the filling with the lid on locks in moisture making the texture just right.
03 -
- Be patient with the simmering lentils; rushing this step impacts texture.
- The little ridges you create in the potato topping are what turn golden and crispy, making all the difference.