Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved comfort food that traditionally utilizes minced meat, but this Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie offers a delicious and plant-based twist on the classic dish. Packed with protein-rich lentils and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this recipe is not only nutritious but also satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to enjoy a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup milk (or almond milk for a vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Start by cooking the lentils. Rinse them under cold water and then combine them with vegetable broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
2. While the lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetable filling. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked lentils and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish.
4. In a separate pot, boil the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Mash the potatoes with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread the mashed potatoes over the lentil mixture in the baking dish, creating a smooth layer. Use a fork to create some texture on the surface.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

This Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, providing leftovers that taste even better the next day. Enjoy this hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrition!

Ingredients:
1 cup dried green or brown lentils, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 medium onion, diced, 2 carrots, diced, 2 celery stalks, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 cup frozen peas, 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed, 1/4 cup milk (or almond milk), 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter), salt, pepper

Tags:
Vegetarian Recipe, Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, Vegan Recipe, Comfort Food, Plant-Based Recipe, Hearty Meal, Family Dinner, Meal Prep, Lentils, Potatoes, Vegetables, Vegetarian Main Course