Description
Jamie Oliver’s Lentil Cottage Pie is a vegetarian adaptation of the classic British dish, replacing meat with protein-rich lentils simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce, then topped with a creamy mashed potato layer and baked until golden.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lentil Filling:
A rich and flavorful lentil mixture forms the base of the dish.
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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- 1 onion (finely chopped)
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- 2 carrots (chopped)
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- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
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- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
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- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
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- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
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- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
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- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
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- 250ml vegetable stock
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- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan version)
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- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils (rinsed and drained)
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- 1 bay leaf
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- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
A creamy and smooth topping that completes the pie.
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- 3 large potatoes (peeled and chopped)
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- 50ml milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
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- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free version)
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- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
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- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
Enhancing the dish with final touches.
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- Fresh parsley (chopped)
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- Grated cheese (optional, for a crispy topping)
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- Steamed greens or a side salad
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Lentil Filling
A deeply flavored, hearty base makes this dish satisfying.
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- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
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- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
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- Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
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- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
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- Pour in chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, and Worcestershire sauce.
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- Stir in lentils and add the bay leaf.
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- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
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- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping
A smooth and creamy mash creates the perfect crust.
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- Boil chopped potatoes in salted water for 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
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- Drain and mash the potatoes with milk, butter, and Dijon mustard (if using).
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- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Cottage Pie
Layering the components for the best texture and flavor.
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- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
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- Spoon the lentil mixture into a greased baking dish.
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- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula.
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- For extra crispiness, sprinkle grated cheese on top (optional).
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
A golden crust adds the final touch.
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- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
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- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Final touches enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation.
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- Garnish with fresh parsley.
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- Serve hot with steamed greens, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.