Wholesome Sweet Potato and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie: A Comforting Vegetarian Twist
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
For the sweet potato mash:
- 2 lbs (1 kg) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp plant-based butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup (50 ml) plant-based milk (e.g., oat or almond milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the sweet potatoes:
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, until soft.
- Drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes with butter and plant-based milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Add the lentils, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the mixture thickens. Stir occasionally.
- Add the peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the lentil filling evenly in a baking dish.
- Spoon the sweet potato mash on top, spreading it to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to create decorative ridges on the surface if desired.
4. Bake:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden and slightly crisp.
5. Serve:
- Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a side salad or crusty bread.
Tips:
- For added flavor, mix some nutritional yeast into the sweet potato mash.
- Customize the filling by adding other vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
This Wholesome Sweet Potato and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a nutritious, hearty, and comforting dish that will satisfy vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Perfect for cozy nights! 🌟