Looking for a warm and satisfying dinner that’s also packed with nutrients? This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a fantastic choice! It’s a vegetarian twist on a beloved classic, featuring a rich, savory lentil filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons butter (dairy or non-dairy)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step By Step Making
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
- While the lentils are simmering, boil the cubed potatoes in a separate pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the lentil mixture into a baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lentil filling. You can create decorative peaks with a fork if you like.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Value
A serving of this Lentil Shepherd’s Pie typically contains approximately:
- Protein: 18g
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbs: 70g
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Health Benefits
This hearty dish is a nutritional powerhouse. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. They are also rich in iron, folate, and magnesium. Potatoes provide essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and Vitamin C. The vegetables add a boost of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making this a wholesome and filling meal.
Disclaimer: This recipe information is provided by azeely.com for general informational purposes only.
