Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash

Introduction

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Cauliflower Mash is a hearty, healthy, and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. This plant-based recipe is packed with nutritious vegetables, lentils for protein, and a creamy cauliflower mash topping. Perfect for dinner, it’s satisfying, simple to make, and entirely vegan. Let’s create this delightful dish step by step!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: A balanced meal with plant-based protein, fibre, and vitamins.
• Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free if you check your ingredients.
• Customisable: Swap veggies or add your favourites.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by vegans and non-vegans alike!

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Ingredients

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup cooked lentils (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cauliflower Mash

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons plant-based milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Mash

1. Steam the Cauliflower: Place cauliflower in a steaming basket and cook until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Mash the Cauliflower: Blend steamed cauliflower with vegan butter, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

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Step 2: Make the Vegetable Filling

1. Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Veggies: Stir in carrots, mushrooms, and peas. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add Lentils and Flavourings: Mix in lentils, tomato paste, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

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Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Layer the Filling: Spread the vegetable filling evenly in a baking dish.
2. Add the Mash: Spoon the cauliflower mash over the filling, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes or until golden on top.

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Tips for the Best Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

1. Make It Cheesy: Add vegan cheese to the cauliflower mash for extra flavour.
2. Switch the Protein: Use chickpeas or crumbled tofu instead of lentils.
3. Add Spice: Sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.

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FAQs

Q1. Can I freeze Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?
A1. Yes, it freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q2. Can I make it oil-free?
A2. Absolutely. Use water or broth for sautéing instead of oil.

Q3. What can I use instead of cauliflower for the mash?
A3. Try sweet potatoes or regular potatoes for a classic twist.

Q4. Can I add wine to the filling?
A4. Yes, a splash of red wine enhances the flavour beautifully.

Q5. How do I reheat leftovers?
A5. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or use a microwave.

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Discover more vegan comfort food recipes:

• Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
• Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff
• Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta
• Spicy Vegan Lentil Tacos
• Vegan Pumpkin Soup

For more about the health benefits of cauliflower, visit Healthline.

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