Vegan Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Experience the cozy embrace of our Vegan Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Sweet Potatoes—a heartwarming dish that marries the robust flavors of a traditional shepherd's pie with the delightful sweetness of creamy mashed sweet potatoes. In this entirely plant-based rendition, savory lentils, colorful vegetables, and aromatic seasonings come together to create a hearty filling, while the golden crown of mashed sweet potatoes adds a delectable touch. Whether you're looking for a comforting family meal or an impressive dinner for guests, this Vegan Shepherd's Pie is a flavorful and nutritious masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 can (15 ounces) lentils, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked lentils)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
For the Filling:
1. Sauté Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the diced carrots and celery, and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add Lentils and Tomato Paste:
Stir in the drained lentils and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to coat the vegetables and lentils.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the filling thickens slightly.
Stir in the green peas and corn. Remove from heat.
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Mash and Season:
Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
Add the vegan butter or olive oil, almond milk, salt, and black pepper.
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
6. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Layer the Shepherd's Pie:
In a baking dish, spread the lentil and vegetable filling evenly.
Top it with the mashed sweet potatoes, spreading them out with a fork.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
9. Serve:
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Vegan Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Sweet Potatoes!
This Vegan Shepherd's Pie with Mashed Sweet Potatoes is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a flavorful and satisfying plant-based twist on a classic favorite.
