A Wholesome Delight: Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food dish that can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. In this recipe, we put a nutritious twist on the traditional Shepherd’s pie by incorporating sweet potatoes and lentils. The result? A delicious and satisfying Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie that is packed with flavour and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup green lentils
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Preparation:
1. Cooking The Lentils: Rinse the lentils and cook them according to package instructions until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Preparing The Sweet Potato Mash: In a large pot, boil the sweet potatoes until they are soft. Drain and mash them with a splash of vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Making The Filling: In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
4. Add the carrot and celery to the pan, and cook until they begin to soften. Then, add the cooked lentils, dried thyme, dried rosemary, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
5. Assembling The Pie: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Transfer the lentil and vegetable mixture to a baking dish and spread the sweet potato mash on top.
6. Baking: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pie is done, let it cool slightly before serving. This Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie pairs wonderfully with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and wholesome meal.
Benefits of Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie:
– Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, while lentils provide protein and fiber.
– Plant-Based: This pie is completely vegetarian, making it a perfect option for those following a plant-based diet.
– Flavourful: The combination of sweet potatoes, lentils, and aromatic herbs creates a delicious and hearty dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
In Conclusion:
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavours of this Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. This dish is not only scrumptious but also offers a plethora of health benefits. Whether you are a vegetarian looking for a new recipe to try or simply want to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this Shepherd’s pie is a must-try. Enjoy the goodness of wholesome ingredients in every bite of this delightful dish.