Wholesome Sweet Potato and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie: A Comforting Vegetarian Twist

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! 🌟

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