Hearty Brown Lentil Shepherdless Pie
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some seriously comforting food? This brown lentil shepherdless pie is just the ticket! It's a hearty, flavourful dish that’s surprisingly healthy. Think classic lentil comfort food with a modern twist.
Brief Overview
Shepherd’s pie usually means meat, right? Well, this recipe flips the script! It's a vegetarian (or even vegan!) take on the classic.
This easy lentils recipe takes about an hour. It serves six hungry people and is great way to introduce lentils with vegetables .
Main Benefits
This hearty lentil recipe is packed with fibre and plant based protein. It's perfect for a cosy night in or a casual get-together with friends.
What makes it special? It’s utterly delicious and good for you. You can make this brown lentil recipe vegan too!.
Ready to dive in? Of course you are!
Let's talk lentils
Did you know lentils are a nutritional powerhouse? They’re an amazing source of protein and fibre. Seriously, they’re a game changer.
This easy lentils recipe turns those humble pulses into something amazing. Perfect to include in your weekly meal plan vegan lentil recipes .
I first started experimenting with brown lentils after a trip to my friend’s farm. They are a fun ingredient to work with.
They’re so versatile! And they absorb flavors like a sponge. So think of the rustic lentil stew flavor! You can create anything you want.
The heart of this recipe
We're making a brown lentil shepherd's pie filling. We layer it with creamy mashed potatoes. Oh my gosh, it's divine! The brown lentils simmer in a rich vegetable broth.
It's pure comfort in a dish! So, let's look at what you will need to make this easy lentils recipe at home.
What You'll Need To Make this Delightful Dish
Get your aprons on! Here’s what you need. From fragrant aromatics to creamy potatoes, the list is simple. You probably already have most of these things! Let's transform lentil recipes into masterpieces.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need for this super simple brown lentil shepherdless pie. This is one of those easy lentils recipe that doesn’t require any fancy techniques.
Honestly, even if you're a bit of a disaster in the kitchen, you can totally nail this!
Main Ingredients: The Good Stuff!
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Any good olive oil will do, but extra virgin adds a nice flavour.
- Onion: 1 large , chopped (approx. 1 cup/150g ). Yellow or white onions are best.
- Carrots: 2 , chopped (approx. 1 cup/120g ). Look for firm, brightly colored carrots.
- Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (approx. 1 cup/100g ). Crisp celery is what you're after.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best!
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon .
- Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Brown lentils : 1 cup , rinsed ( 200g ). Key ingredient, look for clean, whole lentils.
- Vegetable Broth: 4 cups (950ml). Low sodium is always a good idea.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can , undrained (400g).
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30g).
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) (or soy sauce/tamari for vegan).
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup (120g).
Now, for the glorious mashed potato topping...
- Russet Potatoes: 2.5 pounds , peeled and quartered (approx. 1.1 kg). These are the best for fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Milk (or plant based): 1/2 cup (120ml).
- Butter (or vegan butter): 4 tablespoons (55g).
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
- Optional Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g).
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
Thyme and rosemary are a classic combo. They add that herby, savoury depth we want. A good Lentil Recipes Easy always has some herbs.
Worcestershire sauce adds umami. For substitutions, soy sauce or tamari work perfectly in this vegan lentil recipes . These Hearty lentil recipes are a winter's best friend, providing maximum Lentil comfort food .
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- A large pot or Dutch oven.
- Potato masher (or an electric mixer, if you're feeling fancy).
- A 9x13 inch baking dish. A casserole dish will work, too.
For real, you don't need a ton of stuff. I think if you're thinking about Lentil Recipes , is that you want something that doesn't need a lot of tools.
A regular pot will do if you don't have a fancy Dutch oven. And if you don't have a potato masher? A fork works in a pinch.
This brown lentil shepherd's pie is meant to be fuss free and delicious. The ingredients make the difference.
This rustic lentil stew inspired lentils with vegetables is so simple to make!
Hearty Brown Lentil Shepherdless Pie
Okay, so I was craving some serious comfort food the other day. You know that feeling? Just needed something warm and filling that wouldn't take all day.
And boom! This hearty brown lentil "Shepherdless" Pie was born. I've never made this before, but let's dive into it together! It is an Easy Lentils Recipe I swear!
Prep Steps
Mise en place is fancy for "get your stuff together." Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
Rinse those brown lentils . It’s like prepping for battle, but tastier. Peel and quarter the potatoes as well.
Honestly, I'm the queen of time saving. Chop the veggies while the oven preheats to 375° F (190° C ). Multi tasking is the key, right? If you get too excited and cut your finger (I've been there), grab a plaster! Safety first, my friends!
step-by-step Process
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. About 5- 7 minutes .
- Stir in garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook until fragrant.
- Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer, covered, for about 30- 40 minutes , until the brown lentils are tender. I love rustic lentil stew variations.
- While lentils simmer, boil the potatoes until they are fork tender. Drain them super well.
- Mash potatoes with milk, butter, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (optional). Make it creamy.
- Stir the frozen peas into the lentil mixture.
- Pour the lentil mixture into a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
- Bake for about 20 minutes , or until the potato topping is lightly golden.
Pro Tips
Okay, so here's where I would usually mess things up. Make sure you don't overcook the brown lentils , you want them tender, not mush. This hearty lentil recipes should be perfect.
Also, taste as you go. Need more salt? Add it! A pinch of red pepper flakes if you're feeling frisky. This is one of those lentil vegetarian recipes that's easily adaptable.
You can make the lentil base a day ahead. Honestly, I do this with most stews and things. Flavours meld overnight.
Don't have russet potatoes? Sweet potatoes are great too! You can substitute it into this lentil comfort food.
Honestly, this is the best way to get lentils with vegetables into your diet. So quick and easy to prepare and a really amazing vegan lentil recipes.
Recipe Notes for Your Hearty Brown Lentil Shepherdless Pie
This easy lentils recipe is all about making life simpler, right? So, here are a few notes to ensure your lentil shepherd's pie turns out amazing.
It will be one of your favourite lentil recipes !
Serving Suggestions: Make It Look Delish!
Honestly, presentation is key. Serve each portion piping hot. A dollop of sour cream (or vegan alternative) on top? Yes, please! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a pop of colour.
For a fancy touch, swirl the mashed potato topping before baking. On the side, think a crisp green salad. A light vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
If you are feeling fancy, why not a good red wine! We are talking Pinot Noir or Merlot .
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh!
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This rustic lentil stew is even better the next day. For the fridge, store the shepherdless pie in an airtight container.
It’ll be good for up to 3-4 days. Freezing? You absolutely can! Portion it out into freezer safe containers. It will last for about 2-3 months.
Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating is a breeze. Microwave it or pop it back in the oven until heated through.
Important! Make sure its at least 165° F ( 74° C) , to be safe.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Wanna mix things up? No worries. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or use tamari. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lentils with vegetables while they simmer.
Sweet potatoes in the mashed potato topping? Oh my gosh, amazing!
Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body!
This Vegan lentil recipes is packed with goodness. It's high in fibre thanks to the brown lentils . It will keep you full and satisfied.
It will be so helpful for digestion. It’s also a great source of plant based protein. Estimated calories? Around 350-400 per serving.
It is an hearty lentil recipes with loads of nutrients and a very lentil comfort food .
I can't wait to see your version of this brown lentils recipe. Now, go get cooking and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my brown lentils from turning to mush?
Nobody wants a mushy mess! The key is to avoid overcooking the brown lentils. Simmer them gently and check for doneness frequently after about 30 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape, like perfectly cooked pasta - al dente, as they say!
Can I make this lentil shepherdless pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the entire shepherdless pie and store it in the fridge (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. Think of it as your own personal "ready steady cook" moment!
What's the best way to store leftover lentil shepherdless pie?
Leftovers are your friend! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. It’s almost as good as day one, like finding a tenner in your old coat pocket!
I'm vegan. How can I make this recipe suitable?
Going vegan is a doddle with this recipe! Simply substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potato topping with vegan alternatives. Also, double check that your Worcestershire sauce is vegan friendly, or just use soy sauce or tamari instead. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!
Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe? What are the best brown lentils to use?
While this recipe specifically calls for brown lentils, other types can be used in a pinch. Green lentils will work, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time and have a different flavour profile. Red lentils cook much faster and will become quite soft, so they aren't ideal for this dish.
As for brands of brown lentils, the bog standard ones from the supermarket are just as good as any fancy brand!
How can I add more flavour to my brown lentils shepherdless pie?
Flavour is king! Don't be shy with the herbs and spices. A bay leaf added to the simmering lentils can add a subtle depth. A splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten up the flavours.
And don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process, just like a pro chef would!
Hearty Brown Lentil Shepherdless Pie
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10-15g |
| Fiber | 10-15g |
