Vegan Shepherd’s Pie: A Comfort Food That Still Packs a Nutritional Punch
Speaking of cozy, hearty, stick-to-your-ribs food that warms you from the inside out, shepherd’s pie is an unassailable classic. This vegan version is inspired by the heartiness of this popular dish with, unsurprisingly, a vegan twist. Filled with wholesome vegetables and lentils, and topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes, this cruelty-free recipe is wholesome and delectable! Ideal for weeknights or special occasions, this dish will please vegans and non-vegans alike.
So let’s get right into that, an easy-to-follow recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table.
What is Shepherd’s Pie?
Shepherd’s pie, traditionally, is a dish with ground meat, vegetables and a topping of mashed potato. This vegan version replaces the meat with protein-packed lentils, throws in all sorts of vegetables for a nutrient-dense variation, and skips the meat entirely (for the parmesan, you can use similar flavored vegan cheeses). The end result is a rich, flavorful meal that doesn’t stray far from the shepherd’s pie concept but has zero animal products in it.
THE RECIPE FOR MAKING SHEPHERD’S PIE
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
2 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup mushrooms, diced
1 ½ cups cooked lentils (brown or green)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tsp smoked paprika, optional
1 tbsp cornflour or flour (to thicken, if necessary)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Add the peeled and cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Add to a boil and simmer for 15-20 minutes until you can easily stick a fork through the potatoes.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
And vegan butter, plant-based milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Tip: You can use a potato ricer or even a hand mixer for creamier mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Adding the minced garlic, carrots, celery and mushrooms. Stir occasionally and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika (if using) and soy sauce. Whisk together to coat the vegetables.
Stir in the cooked lentils and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
Cook for 10 minutes, melding the flavors and reducing the liquid a little.
If the filling is too watery, dissolve cornstarch or flour in a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the filling to thicken.
Add frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Construct the Shepherd’s Pie
Tab your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the vegetable and lentil filling into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Dollop the mashed potatoes on top of the filling, and use the back of a spatula to evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the filling. If you wish, use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the top.
Tip: Brush the top with a little olive oil or vegan butter for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake
Put the assembled shepherd’s pie in the preheated oven.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and a little bit crispy.
Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before the pie can be served.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Luscious and Tasty: The lentils project, tomato paste, soy sauce, and spices meld together to create a filling that is intensely flavored.
Nutritious and Filling: Lentils and vegetables enveloped in wholesome, protein-fiber combination makes this dish hearty and wholesome.
Comfort Food Classic: The creamy topping of mashed potato and the filling of make it the most cozies dish.
Customizable: You can switch out the vegetables or change the seasoning to your liking.
Tips for Success
Lentils: Either use canned lentils for convenience or cook them from scratch. Brown or green lentils are better as they hold their shape. (Never mind that it’s also best to avoid red lentils, which become mushy as they cook.)
Vegetables: Add or switch up vegetables — corn, zucchini or parsnips can all be used.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time, assembling and baking when ready to eat.
Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
What Goes Well With Vegan Shepherd’s Pie:
A spring green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus,
Crusty bread for a whole meal.
Why Make Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?
This vegan version of a favorite meal is so good for anyone missing comforting, familiar tastes and smells without any tips from animals. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs, trying your hand at plant-based eating, or just want to try something new, this recipe comes through on each count.
A comforting vegan shepherd’s pie that’s proof comfort food can be deeply satisfying and nourishing, just like this one, with its hearty filling and creamy potato topping. Try it for your next family dinner or potluck you won’t be disappointed it will impress!!
Comments
Post a Comment