Beef and Lentil Shepherds Pie

This hearty Shepherd's Pie is a delightful dish made for two! Packed with nutritious vegetables and a savory beef base, it’s topped with a creamy ricotta-mashed potato blend, making it a warm and comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup vegetable-infused minced beef base
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup frozen carrots
• 1/2 cup tinned chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup frozen mixed peppers
• 1 cup frozen cauliflower (to make the mashed topping)
• 1-2 medium potatoes (or use about 200g of tinned peeled new potatoes, drained)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the potatoes)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (for the creamy topping)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Topping:

   • If using fresh potatoes, peel and chop them into chunks. If using tinned new potatoes, drain them.
   • Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. If using frozen cauliflower, add it to the pot for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
   • Drain and mash with olive oil, ricotta cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Beef Filling:

   • In a large skillet, combine the minced beef base, frozen peas, carrots, mixed peppers, chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and herbs. Stir gently to incorporate.
   • Let it simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

3. Assemble the Shepherd's Pie:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Spoon the beef filling into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   • Top with the ricotta-mashed potato mixture, smoothing it out with a spatula. You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on top, which will encourage browning.

4. Bake:

   • Place in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.

5. Serve:

   • Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm, comforting dish with a side of green salad or steamed veggies!

Flavor Profile

This Shepherd's Pie is truly comforting with a savory and hearty flavor from the beef and lentil filling. The creamy, ricotta-infused mashed potato topping adds richness that beautifully complements the dish, making every bite a warm hug!