moroccan shepherd’s pie vegan

moroccan shepherd's pie vegan

Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie: A Tasty Take on a Traditional Recipe

Look no further than this Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie if you’re in the mood for a meaty, savory, and comforting dish with a twist. Your taste senses will be transported to the colorful, spice-filled streets of Morocco by this recipe, which combines savory lentils, veggies, and aromatic spices with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes.

We’ll take you through the process of creating this delectable and prep-ahead meal in this blog. This Moroccan-inspired shepherd’s pie is the ideal recipe for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a crowd, organizing your weekly menu, or just in the need for something fresh and filling.


The Reasons Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie Will Win Your Heart

  • Rich, Aromatic Flavors: The spices turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, and cumin give the meal depth and warmth while putting a distinctive spin on shepherd’s pie.
    Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe is as nourishing as it is tasty, thanks to its protein-rich lentils, fiber-rich veggies, and anti-inflammatory spices.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free: This dish is ideal for a variety of dietary preferences and constraints because it is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
    Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is ideal for meal prep because it can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator or freezer for easy access whenever you want.

Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie Recipe Card

IngredientsAmount
For the Filling
Green or brown lentils (rinsed)1 cup
Olive oil2 tbsp
Onion (finely chopped)1 medium
Garlic (minced)2 cloves
Carrot (diced)1 large
Bell pepper (chopped)1
Zucchini (chopped)1
Frozen peas1 cup
Canned diced tomatoes1 can (14 oz), drained
Ground cumin1 tsp
Ground coriander1 tsp
Ground cinnamon1/2 tsp
Ground turmeric1/2 tsp
Ground ginger1/4 tsp
Cayenne pepper (optional)1/4 tsp
Smoked paprika1 tsp
Tomato paste1 tbsp
Vegetable broth2 cups
Salt1 tsp (to taste)
Black pepper1/2 tsp
Lemon juiceJuice of 1/2 lemon
Raisins or currants (optional)1/4 cup
For the Mashed Potato Topping
Potatoes (peeled and chopped)4 medium
Vegan butter2 tbsp
Plant-based milk (unsweetened)1/4 cup
Garlic powder1/2 tsp
Salt1 tsp
Black pepper1/2 tsp
Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)For garnish

Instructions

StepInstructions
1. Prepare the Mashed PotatoesBoil the chopped potatoes in water for 12-15 minutes until tender. Drain and mash with vegan butter, plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Cook the LentilsIn a small pot, cook lentils in 3 cups of water for 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté VegetablesIn a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion for 5-7 minutes, then add garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Spices and TomatoesStir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, cayenne, smoked paprika, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes and peas.
5. Combine Lentils & SeasonAdd cooked lentils, raisins (optional), and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
6. Assemble the PiePreheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer the lentil filling in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and smooth out evenly.
7. BakeBake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden and crispy.
8. Garnish & ServeLet the pie cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve!

Tips:

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance, store in the fridge, and assemble and bake when ready to serve.
  • Customize: Add or swap vegetables based on your preferences, such as sweet potatoes, spinach, or eggplant.
  • For Extra Crunch: Top with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before baking for added texture.

Enjoy your delicious Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie!

To make the mashed potato topping, peel and chop four medium potatoes. Add two tablespoons of vegan butter (or olive oil).

A quarter cup of unsweetened plant-based milk, including oat, soy, or almond milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powderSalt and pepper, according to taste – Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley


Detailed Directions for Making Vegan Moroccan Shepherd’s Pie

The first step is to prepare the mashed potato topping. To do this, put the chopped potatoes in a big saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft when poked with a fork, 12 to 15 minutes.
Second, mash the potatoes: After draining, put the potatoes back in the pot. Add plant-based milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and vegan butter (or olive oil). The potatoes should be mashed until they are creamy and smooth. Put aside.

Step 2: Create the Inspired Moroccan Filling

  1. Prepare the lentils: Heat 3 cups of water in a small pot until it boils. After rinsing, add the lentils and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are soft but not soggy. After draining any extra water, set aside.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a big saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for five to seven minutes, or until it becomes tender. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 to 7 more minutes.
  3. Insert the spices: Add the ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne, if using. Let the spices bloom and release their aroma by cooking for one to two minutes.
  4. Incorporate the tomatoes and liquids: Mix in the vegetable broth, tomato paste, and chopped tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the flavors combine and the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
    Combine the lentils: Put the peas and cooked lentils in the pan. After combining everything, simmer for a further five to ten minutes. Finally, squeeze in some lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. To add a little sweetness, mix in the raisins or currants if using.

Step 3: Put the Shepherd’s Pie together

  1. Preheat oven: Set the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
    Layer the filling: Spoon the Moroccan lentil and veggie filling into a 9 x 9-inch (or comparable size) baking dish that has been oiled. To make a consistent base, spread it out equally.
  2. Add mashed potatoes on top: Using a spatula, smooth up the mashed potatoes after spooning them over the contents. Make beautiful peaks on the mashed potato surface with the back of a spoon.
    The pie should be baked for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is brown and just beginning to crisp up.
    When the shepherd’s pie is done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing and serving. Add some fresh cilantro or parsley as a garnish for some color and freshness.

How to Make the Greatest Vegan Moroccan Shepherd’s Pie

Customize the filling: You are welcome to change the filling or add vegetables. You can change the spices to your liking, and you could add potatoes, sweet potatoes, or spinach.
To make it hotter, you can add more cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chilies to the mixture.

  • Add a crunchy topping: Before baking, top the mashed potatoes with chopped nuts (such as pistachios or walnuts) or breadcrumbs for added texture.
  • Prep it in advance: This dish is ideal for meal planning. The mashed potatoes and filling can be made in advance and kept separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, just put everything together and bake.
    Freezing: The whole shepherd’s pie can be frozen for up to three months without baking. Before baking, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reasons to Enjoy This Recipe

The traditional comfort dish is given a fun and fulfilling twist with this Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie. Both familiar and unusual flavors are added by the combination of spices and the hint of sweetness from raisins, if you decide to use them. This meal is ideal for important occasions as well as informal family dinners.

The best thing is that guests with dietary restrictions may easily enjoy this recipe because it is entirely plant-based and gluten-free. You and your guests will want more after eating this satisfying and healthy dish.

Try this recipe for a vegan shepherd’s pie tonight for a filling and tasty meal that brings Moroccan spices to your table!

1. Can I use a different type of lentil in this recipe?

Yes! While green or brown lentils are recommended for their texture, you can substitute with red lentils, but be aware that they cook faster and may break down into a softer texture. Red lentils will give the dish a slightly different consistency, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready, just assemble the pie and bake. You can also freeze the entire assembled dish (uncooked) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can swap or add any vegetables you like. Sweet potatoes, spinach, or eggplant would work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure everything is tender.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Moroccan Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is naturally gluten-free. It contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Ensure that your vegetable broth and any other packaged ingredients (like tomato paste) are gluten-free as well.

How can I make the mashed potato topping creamier?

For an extra creamy mashed potato topping, you can increase the amount of plant-based milk or add extra vegan butter or olive oil. If you prefer a lighter texture, consider using a little bit of cauliflower mixed in with the potatoes when mashing.

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