Hearty Lentil Mushroom Pie – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Dinner
Origin of the Recipe
The Hearty Lentil Mushroom Pie is a plant-based twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, combining savory lentils, earthy mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes for a dish that is hearty, nutritious, and satisfying. Inspired by traditional comfort food, this recipe is a wholesome, protein-rich meal perfect for any dinner table.
Introduction
Looking for a comforting, nourishing meal that’s easy to make? This Lentil Mushroom Pie is packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and rich, herby flavors. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply love cozy meals, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (200g) green lentils, cooked
- 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled
- ¼ cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Sauté
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Add the mushrooms and cooked lentils to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Transfer the lentil-mushroom mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Mash the boiled potatoes with plant-based milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. Spread this layer over the lentil mixture.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting, plant-based delight!
Tips for Success
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of olive oil or vegan butter to the mashed potatoes.
- For a crispier top, broil the pie for an additional 5 minutes at the end of baking.
- Make it ahead – prepare the filling and topping in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 9g
- Iron: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Lentils: Rich in protein, fiber, and iron.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories and packed with antioxidants.
- Potatoes: A great source of potassium and energy.
- Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy fats.
Conclusion
This Hearty Lentil Mushroom Pie is a perfect comfort food option that’s filling, flavorful, and nutritious. Whether you’re meal-prepping or looking for a satisfying family dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple!