Root Vegetable Lentil Shepherds Pie
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a culinary cuddle? Ever wondered how to ace seasonal meal planning winter ? This veggie shepherd's pie is a hug in a dish! It's packed with rich, earthy flavours.
Brief Overview
Shepherd's pie is a British classic. This recipe gives it a veggie twist. It’s medium difficulty and takes about 1.
5 hours. It serves six lucky people. This will be one of your go-to cozy winter dinners .
Main Benefits
Lentils pack a protein punch. This pie makes comfort food winter healthy! It’s perfect for a Sunday roast alternative. What makes it special? It uses seasonal root vegetables.
Let's Get Started
Alright, let's get this show on the road! Let's whip up the ingredients list. I consider it a cup of tea on a blustery day.
This hearty shepherd's pie, celebrates the heart of seasonal meal planning . We are in sync with nature's rhythm!
Ingredients and Equipment
Lentil Filling
First, gather your ingredients! You'll need 1 tbsp olive oil. Next, get 1 large onion, chopped. Add 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks, chopped.
You'll also want 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp dried thyme. Don't forget 1/2 tsp dried rosemary and 1 bay leaf.
Then, grab 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed. Add 4 cups vegetable broth, and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes.
You will also need 2 tbsp tomato paste. Then, grab 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian). Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, and 1 cup frozen peas.
I honestly love the vibrant color the peas add!
Rosemary & Garlic Mash
Now for the mash! Get 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered. You will also need 1/2 cup milk. Add 4 tbsp butter, softened, and 2 cloves garlic, minced.
You also need 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped, and salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, grab 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese.
I always add a bit extra parmesan! It makes it divine. We are making the best winter vegetable recipes ever.
Essential Gear
For equipment, you’ll need a large pot. A potato masher or ricer is handy. Also, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish.
A large saucepan is essential too! Let's not forget that this qualifies to be in the budget friendly winter meals . It is so cheap!.
Alright, let's get this show on the road and talk ingredients! You know, seasonal meal planning winter can be so rewarding when you have the right stuff.
Ingredients & Equipment: The Key to Shepherd's Pie Success
Let's dive into what you'll need to make this Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie. It's simpler than you think!
Main Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp ( 15 ml ) This helps start building those lovely flavors!
- Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup , 150g ) Use a good quality yellow onion, it gives a nice sweetness.
- Carrots: 2 , chopped (about 1 cup , 120g ) Pick firm, bright orange carrots for the best flavor.
- Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (about 1 cup , 100g ) Celery should be crisp and not too bendy.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced Fresh is always best.
- Dried Thyme: 1 tsp – Adds that classic herb flavor.
- Dried Rosemary: 1/2 tsp – The star of our winter warmer!
- Bay Leaf: 1 – Don't forget to remove this before serving!.
- Brown or Green Lentils: 1 cup , rinsed ( 200g ) Look for lentils that are uniform in color and size.
- Vegetable Broth: 4 cups ( 1 liter ) This makes the filling so rich.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can , undrained ( 400g ) Use a good brand for best results.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp ( 30 ml ) It adds depth of flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tbsp ( 15 ml ) Make sure its vegan/vegetarian when needed.
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup ( 150g ) These little gems add sweetness and color.
- Potatoes: 3 lbs , peeled and quartered ( 1.4 kg ) I like using Yukon Gold.
- Milk (or plant based): 1/2 cup ( 120 ml ) Use whatever milk you have on hand.
- Butter (or vegan butter): 4 tbsp , softened ( 60g ) This makes the mash dreamy.
- Fresh Rosemary: 1 tbsp , chopped Fresh herbs elevate everything.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 2 tbsp (optional) A little salty kick if you're not vegan.
Seasoning Notes
This is where the magic happens. Thyme and rosemary are essential. A bay leaf adds depth. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little warmth!.
If you're missing Worcestershire sauce, a splash of balsamic vinegar with a pinch of brown sugar works well.
Equipment Needed
You don't need fancy gear. A large pot or Dutch oven is key for the lentil filling. A potato masher or ricer makes the mash perfect.
A 9x13 inch ( 23x33 cm ) baking dish is the ideal size. I've even used a casserole dish. Honestly, a big spoon works in a pinch too! These winter vegetable recipes are also easy to prepare with this setup.
Remember to season generously . It makes all the difference. Enjoy creating this cozy winter dinner , folks!
Right, let's get this show on the road!
Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie: Cooking Method
Okay, let's get this show on the road and whip up a Lentil shepherd's pie recipe that's as comforting as a hug.
This Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie is proper comfort food winter , trust me! It's the perfect dish for seasonal meal planning winter , when you're craving something warm and filling.
Honestly, it's like a Sunday roast, but veggie style.
Prep Like a Pro
First, essential mise en place . Chop all your veggies. Get your lentils rinsed. Measure out your spices. Having everything ready to go before you start cooking makes life so much easier.
For time saving organization tips , I sometimes chop the vegetables the night before. It saves a bit of time, you know? And always remember safety reminders : Watch your fingers with that knife!
Let's Cook! step-by-step
- Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
- Add garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook briefly.
- Stir in lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 30 minutes .
- Stir in frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf.
- Spread mashed potato evenly over the lentil base.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until golden brown.
Pro-Level Tips
Common mistakes to avoid: Don't overcook the lentils! Mushy lentils are a no-no. For a beautifully browned topping, broil the pie for the last few minutes of baking.
I normally put it in the middle rack, but be careful not to burn it! make-ahead options : The lentil filling and mash can be made a day ahead.
Store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving. Winter meal prep recipes makes life less stressfull when you are hungry.
Winter vegetable recipes are great for a hearty winter stews .
I reckon this Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie is going to be a new favourite. Cozy winter dinners and budget friendly winter meals that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside! And hey, enjoy the taste of seasonal winter dinner ideas !
Recipe Notes for Shepherd's Pie Bliss
Okay, let's get this show on the road! Before you dive headfirst into this epic Lentil Shepherd's Pie Recipe , there are a few nuggets of wisdom I want to share, based on my own kitchen adventures (and occasional disasters, honestly ).
Serving Suggestions: Plate it Like a Pro!
Think about presentation! For plating, a generous scoop of this comfort food winter wonder looks fab in a shallow bowl.
A sprig of fresh rosemary on top adds a touch of elegance. I love serving this with some bright green steamed green beans it really pops.
A dollop of Greek yogurt is also a great shout for creaminess and tang. Why not complement this cozy winter dinner with a full bodied red wine or a dark ale?
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh
Leftovers? Lucky you! This hearty winter stew keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.
You can freeze portions too. Let it cool completely before wrapping it well or placing it in freezer safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months.
When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Variations: Make it Your Own
Got dietary restrictions? No sweat! This recipe is super adaptable. For a vegetarian winter recipes version, make sure your Worcestershire sauce is veggie friendly.
Fancy something different? Try swapping out half the potatoes for sweet potatoes in the mash. It adds a lovely sweetness.
During seasonal meal planning winter , consider swapping the frozen peas for roasted Brussels sprouts for a twist.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
This Shepherd's Pie is packed with goodness. It's got fiber from the lentils and root vegetable recipes , protein to keep you full, and loads of vitamins from the vegetables.
This is a budget friendly winter meal that's both delicious and nourishing!
So there you have it! All my little secrets and tips for making this Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie a total triumph.
Don't be afraid to experiment. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process! I am sure that you are going to get creative with seasonal winter dinner ideas .
I find winter meal prep recipes and that helps me a lot!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this shepherd's pie ahead of time, you know, like a proper Sunday roast prep?
Absolutely! The lentil filling and mashed potatoes can both be made a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and then assemble and bake the pie just before you're ready to serve. It's perfect for when you're having guests over and want to be a chill host, innit?
I'm trying to embrace seasonal meal planning winter. Are there other root vegetables I could add to this recipe besides carrots and celery?
Definitely! Swedes (rutabaga), parsnips, and turnips would all be fantastic additions to the lentil filling. They add a lovely sweetness and earthiness that complements the other flavours. Just chop them into similar sizes as the carrots and celery and add them in at the same time.
What's the best way to store leftover shepherd's pie, and how long will it last? I wouldn't want it to go off like a dodgy prawn!
Leftover shepherd's pie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Make sure it's piping hot before you tuck in!
I'm attempting a veganuary! Is it easy to adapt this Root Vegetable & Lentil Shepherd's Pie to be completely vegan?
Yes, it's quite simple! Use plant based milk and butter for the mashed potatoes. Make sure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian or vegan (many contain anchovies), or substitute with balsamic vinegar. Finally, either omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative to achieve the perfect plant based dish.
My mashed potato is always a bit lumpy. Any tips for getting that super smooth, comforting texture like my nan used to make?
Ah, the quest for perfect mash! The key is to use a potato ricer or food mill for the ultimate smooth texture. This eliminates lumps more effectively than a regular masher. Also, make sure your potatoes are thoroughly cooked before mashing, and don't overwork them, as that can make them gluey.
A dash of cream (or plant based alternative), too, can help add luxuriousness
Does the nutritional information include the parmesan?
No, the nutritional information provided is an estimate without the Parmesan cheese. Adding parmesan will increase the calorie, fat, and protein content slightly.
Root Vegetable Lentil Shepherds Pie
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 15g |