Vegetarian Cornish Pasty Shepherd's Pie Topping

Vegetarian Cornish Pasty Shepherd's Pie Topping

Classic DishCornish Pasty

Prep: 30 min • Cook: 50 min. A hearty lentil and root vegetable filling, seasoned with traditional herbs and topped with a savory mashed potato and swede crust, baked like a pie. This dish offers a comforting and familiar taste of British home cooking with a vegetarian twist, perfect for a Sunday roast or a warming weeknight meal.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
50 min
Total time
1 hr 20 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

  1. 1Rinse the dried brown lentils thoroughly.
  2. 2Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan or ovenproof dish over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Add the diced carrot and swede to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. 4Stir in the tomato puree, dried thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. 5Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Topping

  1. 1While the filling simmers, place the cubed potatoes and swede in a separate saucepan. Cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. 2Drain the vegetables thoroughly and return them to the warm saucepan.
  3. 3Add the butter and warmed milk. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6).
  2. 2If your saucepan is ovenproof, spoon the mashed potato and swede topping evenly over the lentil and vegetable filling. Create a rustic pattern with a fork if desired.
  3. 3If your saucepan is not ovenproof, transfer the filling to an ovenproof dish, then top with the mash.
  4. 4Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  5. 5Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories
521 kcal
Protein
22 g
Fat
17 g
Carbs
75 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories521 kcal
Protein22 g
Fat17 g
Carbs75 g

Tips

  • For a smoother mash, pass the cooked potatoes and swede through a potato ricer before adding butter and milk.
  • Ensure the lentil filling is not too wet before adding the potato topping, or it may make the topping soggy.
  • Serve hot as a main course, perhaps with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

By Chef Michael Ilin