Mary Berry Vegetarian Cottage Pie

Name: Mary Berry's Vegetarian Cottage Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery sticks, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 200g green lentils, rinsed; 400g canned chopped tomatoes; 500ml vegetable stock; 2 tbsp tomato purée; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1.5 kg potatoes, peeled and chopped; 50g butter; 100ml milk

Dive into the comforting warmth of Mary Berry's Vegetarian Cottage Pie, a dish that beautifully showcases the Queen of Cooks' ability to create hearty, meat-free meals that don't skimp on flavor. This recipe is an ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, especially during the chillier months.

Mary Berry Vegetarian Cottage Pie: A Brief Description

Mary Berry's rendition of the classic cottage pie is a vegetarian delight, perfect for big family dinners or a comforting meal on a cold day. The recipe swaps the traditional ground meat for a rich, vegetable-laden lentil mixture, topped with a creamy, cheese-infused potato mash. It's a testament to how vegetarian meals can be just as hearty and fulfilling as their meat-based counterparts.

Cultural or Historical Context

Cottage pie, a staple in British cuisine, traditionally features a ground beef filling topped with mashed potatoes. Mary Berry's vegetarian version maintains the comforting essence of the original while offering a plant-based alternative, reflecting a growing preference for vegetarian and environmentally friendly meals.

Ingredients for the Vegetarian Cottage Pie

Olive oil, onions, garlic, carrots, swede, dried red lentils
Canned plum tomatoes, sun-dried tomato paste, vegetable stock
Fresh spinach, smooth potatoes (such as Desiree or Estima)
Butter, full-fat or semi-skimmed milk, mature Cheddar cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning

Preparation Instructions

Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and swede in olive oil.
Add lentils, tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable stock, simmering until tender.
Stir in spinach, then transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
Boil, then mash potatoes with butter, milk, and cheese, and spread over the lentil mixture.
Bake until golden and bubbling, creating a comforting, flavorful pie.

Storage and Reheating

This vegetarian cottage pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven until piping hot throughout, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values can vary, this dish is rich in fiber from lentils and vegetables, offers protein, and includes calcium from the cheese in the potato topping.

FAQ about the Vegetarian Cottage Pie

Can I freeze the cottage pie? Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely, feel free to incorporate other root vegetables or leafy greens as per your preference.

Mary Berry's Vegetarian Cottage Pie is not just a recipe; it's a cozy embrace in the form of food, perfect for anyone seeking the warmth of a home-cooked meal without the meat. Whether you're a long-time vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.

Original recipe attributed to Mary Berry, showcasing her expertise in creating dishes that are both delicious and accessible to home cooks.