Vegan Shepherd Pie

Vegan Shepherd Pie

Vegan shepherd pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings a plant-based twist to the classic shepherd’s pie, traditionally made with meat and mashed potatoes. This version features a savory mixture of lentils and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes that are both satisfying and delicious.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, vegan shepherd’s pie is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for everyone. With its warm and inviting presentation, this dish is sure to impress even the most devoted omnivores.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh peas)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes (such as Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter (or olive oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make

Cook the Lentils:

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetable Filling:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the diced carrots and celery to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce or tamari, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika, mixing well to combine.

Combine the Filling:

Add the cooked lentils and vegetable broth to the skillet, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

While the filling is simmering, place the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or fork. Stir in the plant-based milk, vegan butter (or olive oil), and season with salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, spread the lentil and vegetable filling evenly on the bottom. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a pattern on the surface of the potatoes (this helps with browning).

Bake:

Bake the shepherd’s pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your vegan shepherd’s pie with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

Chef’s Note

This vegan shepherd’s pie is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn. For added depth of flavor, consider including a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar in the filling. You can also prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator and assembling the dish when ready to bake.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg (varies based on broth and added salt)

Vegan shepherd’s pie is not only a hearty and comforting dish but also a great way to enjoy a variety of nutrients. Rich in plant-based protein from lentils and packed with fiber from vegetables, it’s a nutritious option for everyone. Enjoy this delicious dish and savor every bite!

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