This Vegetarian Shepherd’s pie is as delicious as the Classic one. Lentils, Mushrooms, carrots, and peas are coated with a herb and wine-infused thick gravy. There is a thick layer of creamy mashed potato on the top baked until slightly crispy around the edges but still creamy underneath. An amazing Meatless dish, that will make you forget the meat version of Shepherd’s pie for a while. A great dish to make ahead of time. In the case of leftovers, can easily be stored in the freezer. If you are having leftover mashed potato from Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, then you know how to use it up.
How to Make Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie
I know, it doesn’t sound convincing when I tell you that the filling is delicious and you won’t miss the usual beef filling in this Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie. Lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables when slowly baked in a thick sauce create a magical and flavourful gravy. The mushroom gives the umami to the gravy. Lentil gives body to the filling. I like to use brown/green lentils. Cook lentils just until tender and add to the filling. Along with texture, the protein content of lentil compensates for the beef. Start with Sauteeing Onion, garlic, celery, carrot, bay leaf, and fresh herbs. When aromatic add Mushroom. Saute Mushroom until it softens. Then goes the lentils, tomato paste, and flour. If you are not a fan of lentils, then increase the amount of mushroom, carrot, and peas to compensate. Red wine adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Use any kind of wine you have in hand. Other vegetables you can use is corn, red pepper, green beans. I prefer to add a combination of 3-4 vegetables, not more.
Mashed Potato Toppings
A thick blanket of creamy fluffy mashed potato on top makes the dish complete. Use your favorite mashed Potato recipe or any leftover mashed potato here. For the vegan version, use coconut milk / Olive oil for the mash. Use a Yukon gold potato or a mix of Yukon gold and russet potatoes. To make it easier and fast, peel potatoes, cut into cubes, and cook in well-seasoned water. I have added heavy cream and butter to the mashed potato. For more rich version add 1/4 cup of cream cheese or while baking top it with some shredded cheddar cheese.
Prepping ahead and Storing Leftover Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie
This can be easily prepared ahead. Assemble the pie in an oven-safe pan. Cover tightly with a double layer of foil and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Remove from the refrigerator 30-40 minutes before baking and bake as per instruction. In case of leftover, cover tightly with a foil and store up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
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