📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you're ready to bake. Find the best oven setting for you, it usually depends on your oven type.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened. Don't let them brown too much; we're just softening them up here. If you're using a dutch oven make sure it is not too hot to avoid burning.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. We want that lovely aroma filling the kitchen!
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This adds depth of flavor to the lentil mixture. You can adjust the amount of tomato paste to your liking.
5. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more vegetable broth.
6. While the lentils are simmering, prepare the mashed potato topping. Peel the potatoes and cut them into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to mash easily. Drain the potatoes well. Getting all the water out prevents soupy potatoes, yuck!
7. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the butter and milk (or plant-based alternatives), and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. Be careful not to overmix, or they can get gluey.
8. Once the lentil mixture is ready, pour it into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potato topping evenly over the lentil mixture, making sure to cover it completely. If you want, create swirls with a fork for a rustic look. Swirls are not just pretty, they also increase the surface area which will make the potatoes brown better.
9. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potato topping. This adds a nice touch of flavor and browning, but it's optional. A little goes a long way!
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and the lentil mixture is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. If you feel like it's getting burnt on top quickly cover with foil.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Lentil Shepherd's Pie!