Get ready to revolutionize your dinner table with a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food that will make even meat-lovers swoon! This Curried Vegan Shepherd's Pie isn't just another boring vegan dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines hearty lentils, aromatic curry spices, and creamy mashed potatoes into one irresistible meal. Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a curious foodie, or someone looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe will transform your perception of what plant-based cooking can be.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing your workspace. Make sure to rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside.
- In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Drain and set aside.
- While the lentils are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or a small amount of oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the diced carrots and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are softened.
- Sprinkle the curry powder over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors of the spices.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked lentils and stir until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the lentil mixture is simmering, prepare your mashed potatoes if you haven’t done so already. You can use store-bought mashed potatoes or make your own by boiling potatoes until tender, then mashing them with a bit of plant-based milk and seasoning to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread the lentil and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Carefully layer the mashed potatoes on top, smoothing it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
- Optional: For a golden-brown finish, you can use a fork to create some texture on the surface of the mashed potatoes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Once cooked, remove the shepherd's pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set slightly.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Curried Vegan Shepherd's Pie!
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: Rinse your lentils thoroughly and don't overcook them – you want them tender but still holding their shape for the best texture.
- Spice Hack: Toast your curry powder in the pan for 30 seconds before adding other ingredients to intensify its flavor profile.
- Potato Pro Tip: For ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or hand masher instead of a food processor to avoid making them gluey.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a splash of coconut milk to the lentil mixture or sprinkling nutritional yeast on top of the potatoes for extra depth of flavor.
- Storage Wisdom: This shepherd's pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
