Save A comforting vegetarian twist on the classic shepherds pie, featuring a savory lentil and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection.
This recipe has become a family favorite for its rich flavors and satisfying texture that even meat-eaters enjoy.
Ingredients
- For the Lentil Filling: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large yellow onion finely chopped, 2 carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 cup brown or green lentils rinsed, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 bay leaf, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Mashed Potato Topping: 2 pounds (about 900 g) Yukon Gold or russet potatoes peeled and cubed, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/3 cup whole milk (or plant-based alternative), Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Boil Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender about 15-18 minutes Drain and return to the pot
- Mash Potatoes:
- Add butter and milk to the potatoes Mash until smooth Season with salt and white pepper Set aside
- Sauté Vegetables:
- While potatoes cook heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion carrots and celery Sauté until softened about 6-8 minutes
- Add Spices:
- Stir in garlic tomato paste thyme rosemary smoked paprika and bay leaf Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Cook Lentils:
- Add lentils and vegetable broth Bring to a boil then reduce heat cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed
- Finish Filling:
- Discard bay leaf Stir in peas and soy sauce Season with salt and pepper to taste Simmer for 2-3 minutes
- Assemble:
- Transfer lentil mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish Spoon mashed potatoes evenly on top
- Create Texture:
- Use a fork to create ridges in the potatoes then bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden
- Cool:
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving
Save This dish often brings the family together for a cozy meal enjoyed on chilly evenings.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans Pairs well with a robust red wine or a malty ale
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Potato masher 9x13-inch baking dish Mixing spoon Oven
Allergen Information
Contains soy (from soy sauce) and dairy (butter milk) Use tamari for gluten-free and plant-based butter milk for vegan or dairy-free options Always check ingredient labels for allergens
Save Enjoy this nourishing and flavorful shepherds pie any time you crave a comforting vegetarian meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of lentils work best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well and absorb flavors from herbs and tomato paste.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute dairy butter and milk with plant-based alternatives for a vegan version without compromising creaminess.
- → How should I season the mashed potato topping?
Use unsalted butter and whole milk with a pinch of salt and white pepper to achieve a smooth, creamy texture and subtle seasoning.
- → Is there a way to add more umami flavor?
Adding chopped mushrooms to the filling introduces extra depth and a savory umami boost.
- → What sides complement this dish well?
Serve alongside crisp green salads or steamed green beans; robust red wines or malty ales also pair nicely.