Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Time

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Cook: 40–45 minutes
• Total: About 1 hour

Ingredients

Lentil Filling

• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils (or 2½ cups cooked)
• 2½ cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
• ½ cup vegetable broth (extra, for thickening)

Mashed Potato Topping

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 tablespoons plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils

Rinse the lentils thoroughly. Add them to a pot with 2½ cups of broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

3. Make the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced carrots and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender.

Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked lentils, peas, and corn. Mix well.

4. Thicken the Filling

Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for about 1 minute. Slowly add ½ cup broth while stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

5. Assemble the Pie

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the lentil mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and spread evenly. Use a fork to create texture if desired.

6. Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is lightly golden. For a crispier finish, broil for 3–5 minutes at the end.

Serving Suggestions

Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.

Variations

• Add chopped mushrooms for a richer flavor
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes
• Add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat