Curried Lentil Shepherds Pie

A classic stew with fluffy mashed potatoes!

Shepherds pie or cottage pie, originates from the farmlands of Scotland and northern England. Potatoes were introduced to this region in the 16th century and soon became a staple. A tiny cottage plot could grow enough to feed a family, they were inexpensive and grew easily in poor soil. This dish came about as a way to use up and reinvent common leftovers.

Ingredients:

1 Onion, small dice

2 Large Carrots, small dice

3 Celery Stalks, small dice

1 Tbsp. Curry Powder

1 tsp. Cumin, ground

1 tsp. Coriander, ground

3 Garlic Cloves, minced

1 Cup Green Lentils, rinsed and sorted

3 Cups Water

3 Tbsp. Tomato Paste

1 Cup Peas

2# Russet & Golden Potatoes Mix, peeled & cubed

1 Cup Unsweetened Non-dairy Creamer, warm (I use Nutpods)

1/4 Cup Vegan Butter (I use Miyokos)

Salt & Pepper, to taste

Directions:

Saute onions, carrots and celery till they start to tenderize, stir occasionally. Next, stir in curry, cumin and coriander and cook for about two minutes. Next mix in garlic and cook another minute, continue stirring occasionally. Add lentils and water and bring to a boil. Reduce, simmer and cover with a lid for 40 minutes, or until tender, stir occasionally.

Meanwhile, peel & dice potatoes. Place them in a pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, strain. Let steam 5 minutes in the colander before mashing or ricing. This will create a fluffier potato and make them less water logged. Stir in the butter and cream. Salt and pepper to taste.

When the lentils have finished, add tomato paste, peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.

To assemble the pie, pour the lentils into a casserole dish and spoon the potatoes over the lentils and use a fork to spread them around in an even layer. This also creates a fun effect that gets crispy when baked. Bake at 400 degrees for 35 minutes. You may need to kick up the broiler for the last few minutes to get some color on the potatoes. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!