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.