Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Why Make This Recipe

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is a wonderful twist on the traditional dish that warms the soul. This recipe is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with flavors that will bring your loved ones together around the dinner table. The combination of lentils and fresh vegetables creates a filling that’s both nutritious and comforting. Plus, it’s completely vegan, making it perfect for everyone! Let’s dive into making this delicious meal from scratch, where every bite sends a little love your way.

How to Make Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients

• Brown or Green Lentils (1 cup, dried): The heart of our shepherd’s pie, providing a meaty texture and rich, earthy flavor. Dried lentils are preferred for their texture and cost-effectiveness, but pre-cooked lentils can be used (adjust cooking time accordingly).
• Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Forms the liquid base for cooking the lentils and vegetables, adding depth of flavor. Choose a low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding richness and helping to develop flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy and flavorful choice.
• Yellow Onion (1 large, diced): The aromatic base of the filling, providing a foundational savory note. White or red onion can be substituted if needed.
• Carrots (2 medium, diced): Adds sweetness, color, and texture to the filling. Use regular carrots or rainbow carrots for visual appeal.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced): Contributes a subtle savory flavor and aromatic depth. Celery is a classic component of mirepoix, the flavor base for many dishes.
• Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Adds a meaty, umami flavor and hearty texture. Cremini, white button, or portobello mushrooms work well. For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for flavor, adding a pungent and aromatic element. Fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Adds depth of flavor and richness, contributing to the savory profile of the filling. Double-concentrated tomato paste provides a more intense flavor.
• Red Wine (1/2 cup, optional): Enhances the savory notes and adds complexity. A dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon is recommended. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a non-alcoholic version.
• Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy, and slightly minty flavor that complements the lentils and vegetables. Fresh thyme can be used (about 1 tablespoon, chopped).
• Dried Rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a piney, aromatic, and slightly pungent flavor that enhances the savory profile. Fresh rosemary can be used (about 1 teaspoon, chopped).
• Bay Leaf (1): Infuses a subtle, tea-like flavor into the filling, adding depth and complexity. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Frozen Peas (1 cup): Adds sweetness, color, and a pop of freshness at the end. Frozen peas are convenient and readily available.
• Corn Kernels (1 cup, frozen or canned): Adds sweetness and a pleasant texture contrast to the filling. Frozen or canned corn kernels both work well.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari (1 tablespoon): Enhances the umami flavor and depth of the filling. Tamari is a gluten-free option.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Russet Potatoes (4 lbs, peeled and quartered): The classic choice for mashed potatoes, known for their fluffy texture when mashed. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier texture.
• Plant-Based Milk (1 cup, unsweetened): Adds creaminess and moisture to the mashed potatoes. Unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk work well. Choose a neutral-flavored milk for the best results.
• Vegan Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness, flavor, and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Choose a high-quality vegan butter for optimal flavor.
• Nutritional Yeast (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a cheesy, savory flavor to the mashed potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and White Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the mashed potatoes. White pepper adds a subtle warmth without visible specks.

Directions

Creating this comforting Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is a rewarding process. Here’s how you can bring this flavorful dish to life:

1. Rinse the lentils and soak them if needed. In a pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Saute for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the mushrooms and garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are soft.
4. Add the cooked lentils, tomato paste, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, peas, and corn. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, boil the quartered potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
6. Add plant-based milk, vegan butter, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and white pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.
7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the lentil filling evenly. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing it out with a spatula.
8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Serve this delightful Vegan Shepherd’s Pie warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. It’s perfect alongside a crisp green salad or some crusty bread. Gather around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories as you enjoy this comforting dish together.

How to Store Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Once cooled, cover leftovers with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for later enjoyment; just thaw in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips to Make Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

• For added flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in a splash of vegetable broth instead of oil for a lighter version.
• Use a mix of lentils and different vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to customize your filling.
• If you prefer creamy mashed potatoes, add more plant-based milk and vegan butter to your taste.
• This recipe is versatile! Feel free to experiment with herbs or spices to suit your palate.

Variations

You can easily customize this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie by:

• Using different grains like quinoa or couscous in place of lentils for a different texture.
• Adding more veggies such as diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Trying sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for the topping, giving it a unique sweetness.

FAQs

What can I substitute for the lentils in Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?

You can substitute lentils with cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or even textured vegetable protein for a different texture and flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make Vegan Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mashed potato topping separately. Assemble the pie a few hours before baking or store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it before serving.

How do I make the mashed potatoes creamy for Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?

To achieve creamy mashed potatoes, add more plant-based milk and vegan butter while mashing. Yukon Gold potatoes also provide a creamier texture than russets.

Is Vegan Shepherd’s Pie freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze Vegan Shepherd’s Pie. Just bake it and let it cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container. It can last for about 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Now it’s your turn to create this heartwarming Vegan Shepherd’s Pie in your own kitchen. As you serve it, think of gathering around the table with your loved ones, just like I did with my family. I hope this recipe brings you warmth and joy. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventure on Pinterest and Medium!