Vegan Shepherd’s Pie: A Hearty Plant-Based Delight
If you’re searching for a delicious and comforting dish that’s entirely plant-based, look no further than this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal for six, this hearty and nutritious dish is made with a blend of white beans, fresh vegetables, and a golden mashed potato topping. This vegan take on the classic shepherd’s pie is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome meal while keeping things cruelty-free and plant-based. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 1 kg |
| Dried White Beans | 400 g |
| Peeled Cherry Tomatoes (Datterini) | 350 g |
| Friggitelli (Sweet Peppers) | 250 g |
| Fresh Spring Onions (Cipollotto) | 180 g |
| Celery | 150 g |
| Carrots | 150 g |
| Water | 400 g |
| Bay Leaves | 3 |
| Oregano (Fresh or Dried) | To taste |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
-
Soak the White Beans:
Begin by soaking the dried white beans for about 12 hours. Once they’ve softened, drain and rinse them well. -
-
Cook the Beans:
Transfer the soaked beans to a large pot and cover them with plenty of water. Add the bay leaves to the pot. Allow the beans to cook until tender but not falling apart. This should take around 40 minutes, but make sure to check their doneness periodically. -
Prepare the Potatoes:
While the beans are cooking, peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of water and bring them to a boil. Let them cook for 30-40 minutes or until fork-tender. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Cut off the tops of the friggitelli (sweet peppers), remove the seeds, and chop them into small pieces. Similarly, peel and dice the carrots and spring onions (cipollotti). -
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced spring onions and celery. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the chopped peppers and carrots. Stir occasionally to cook evenly. -
Add the Tomatoes:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the peeled cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well, season with salt and pepper, and cover. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. -
Mash the Potatoes:
When the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Mash them thoroughly, adding a pinch of salt and a little olive oil for a creamy texture. Season with freshly grated nutmeg and set aside. -
Combine the Beans and Vegetables:
Once the beans are cooked, drain them and remove the bay leaves. Add the beans to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and fresh or dried oregano to taste. -
Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). In a baking dish (approximately 23 cm in diameter at the base, 28 cm at the top), spread the bean and vegetable mixture evenly on the bottom. Then, spoon the mashed potatoes on top. Spread the potatoes out evenly with the back of a spoon, making sure to cover the edges completely. Use a fork to create light ridges on top for a rustic look. -
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. -
Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the shepherd’s pie from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is a satisfying one-pot meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh side salad. It’s rich in protein from the white beans and packed with vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables. The golden mashed potato topping is simply irresistible, offering a creamy, comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the savory filling beneath it.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
- Plant-Based & Nutritious: Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients, this shepherd’s pie is not only cruelty-free but also a great source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Comforting & Hearty: It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year, whether you’re enjoying a cozy winter dinner or a filling meal for your next family gathering.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can even add a vegan cheese topping if you prefer a more indulgent version.
Enjoy this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie as a delicious, wholesome meal that brings everyone together at the table. It’s sure to be a hit for vegans and non-vegans alike!
