Mary Berry Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s vegetarian lentil cottage pie!

This recipe is perfect for anyone craving comfort food with a twist-packed with rich, flavorful lentils and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s not only a great choice for vegetarians, but also a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based alternative to the traditional cottage pie. Mary Berry’s recipe takes the classic to a whole new level, offering a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Mary Berry Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie, you’ll need a variety of wholesome and flavorful ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in how the lentils and vegetables come together to create a hearty, satisfying meal. Below is a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to bring this delicious vegetarian twist on the classic cottage pie to life:

For The Filling

• Green or Brown Lentils (200g): Lentils serve as the base of the cottage pie filling, providing protein, fiber, and a meaty texture. Green or brown lentils work best since they hold their shape when cooked, adding structure to the filling.
• Carrots (2 medium, finely diced): Carrots add a natural sweetness and a subtle crunch to the filling, balancing the earthiness of the lentils.
• Onions (1 large, finely chopped): Onions contribute depth of flavor and sweetness when sautéed, which forms the base of the filling.
• Celery (2 sticks, finely chopped): Celery brings a fresh, aromatic quality and a slight crunch to the filling.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a rich, savory undertone to the dish, infusing the filling with its distinctive flavor.
• Tomato Purée (2 tablespoons): This ingredient helps to thicken the filling and gives a rich, tomatoey depth that complements the lentils and vegetables.
• Vegetable Stock (500ml): A good vegetable stock enhances the umami flavor of the filling, providing moisture and seasoning for the lentils.
• Herbs: Thyme (1 teaspoon), Rosemary (1 teaspoon), and Bay Leaves (1-2): These herbs infuse the dish with earthy and aromatic notes, complementing the richness of the lentils and vegetables.
• Frozen Peas (100g): Peas add a pop of color, sweetness, and texture to the filling, making it more vibrant and well-rounded.
• Olive Oil (for sautéing): A small amount of olive oil is needed to sauté the vegetables and start building the flavor base of the filling.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

For The Mashed Potato Topping

• Potatoes (1kg, peeled and chopped): Choose a starchy variety, such as Maris Piper or Russet, which will mash well into a creamy texture. Potatoes are the key component in creating a fluffy, smooth topping.
• Butter (50g): Butter gives the mashed potatoes a rich, creamy flavor, making them the perfect foil for the savory lentil filling.
• Milk (100ml): Milk is added to the mashed potatoes to create a smooth, velvety texture. You can substitute with plant-based milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season the mashed potatoes to your liking, balancing the flavors for the perfect topping.

Equipment Needed

To successfully prepare Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure that the process is smooth and efficient. Below is a list of equipment that will help you create this comforting dish:

1. Large Saucepan: You’ll need a large saucepan to cook the lentil filling. This allows enough space for sautéing the vegetables and simmering the lentils and stock together. A non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan will work best to prevent sticking.
2. Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes for the mash, you’ll need a large pot with enough room for all the potatoes to cook evenly. Make sure it’s large enough so the potatoes are fully submerged in water.
3. Frying Pan: For sautéing the vegetables, a medium-sized frying pan is perfect. It allows you to gently soften the onions, carrots, and celery without overcrowding the ingredients.
4. Colander: To drain the lentils once they’re cooked, you’ll need a colander to ensure excess liquid is removed before adding them to the filling mixture.
5. Potato Masher: A potato masher is essential for mashing the cooked potatoes to achieve a smooth, creamy topping. You could also use a ricer for a finer mash if you prefer a smoother texture.
6. Ovenproof Dish: A medium-sized ovenproof baking dish (roughly 25cm x 20cm) is necessary for assembling and baking the cottage pie. The dish should be deep enough to hold the filling and mashed potato topping comfortably.
7. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the lentil filling and mashed potatoes, ensuring everything is well mixed and nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
8. Knife and Chopping Board: You’ll need a sharp knife and a sturdy chopping board to chop the vegetables and herbs. It’s important to dice the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
9. Lid or Foil for Covering: When baking the pie, you might need a lid or some foil to cover the dish for the first part of cooking, ensuring the top doesn’t brown too quickly while the filling is heating through.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie

Making Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is a rewarding process, combining the simplicity of lentils with the comfort of a potato topping. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you recreate this dish:

Step 1: Prepare The Mashed Potato Topping

1. Boil the Potatoes: Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them into a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Make The Lentil Filling

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat some olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and starting to brown.
2. Cook the Lentils: Add the lentils to the pan, stirring them into the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable stock and add the herbs (thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves). Bring everything to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Add the peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
3. Add Tomato Purée: Stir in the tomato purée, and allow the mixture to cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before transferring the filling to your ovenproof dish.

Step 3: Assemble The Pie

1. Layer the Filling: Once the lentil mixture is ready, spoon it into your ovenproof dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Top with Mashed Potatoes: Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the lentil filling, spreading them out with a spatula to cover the entire surface. You can make a pattern with a fork on top of the mashed potatoes for a decorative finish.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

Expert Tips

• Lentil Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the lentil filling with an immersion blender before assembling the pie. This will create a thicker, more cohesive texture while still retaining some of the lentils’ bite.
• Flavor Boost: If you want an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the filling before simmering. This will give the dish a more complex and rich taste.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as parsnips, mushrooms, or leeks. These can be sautéed with the other vegetables to bring more variety to the filling.
• Vegan Version: To make the pie completely vegan, simply swap the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes for dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and almond milk.

Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is a wholesome, comforting dish that’s perfect for those seeking a hearty meat-free meal. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and a smooth mashed potato topping creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that is sure to please even the most devoted meat-eaters.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. It’s versatile, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make, offering a cozy alternative to traditional cottage pie with all the flavor and heartiness you crave.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie

Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is already a wonderfully hearty and flavorful dish, but sometimes a small twist can elevate it even further. Here are some easy variations you can try, depending on your preferences or what you have on hand:

1. Swap the Lentils for Other Beans

   While the recipe calls for green or brown lentils, you could easily substitute these with other beans such as kidney beans, chickpeas, or black beans. These beans offer different textures and flavors but still maintain the dish’s hearty, satisfying nature. Chickpeas, for example, provide a slightly nutty flavor and a firmer bite, which works beautifully in the cottage pie filling.

2. Add a Splash of Coconut Milk

   If you want to add a little creaminess to the filling, incorporate a splash of coconut milk. The subtle sweetness of the coconut milk will complement the earthiness of the lentils while adding richness to the sauce. You could also use cashew cream if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option.

3. Infuse with Herbs and Spices

   To bring an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing the lentil filling with different herbs and spices. For instance, adding cumin and coriander gives the dish a warm, aromatic depth, while thyme and rosemary can enhance the earthy flavors. If you’re craving a spicier version, a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chili flakes will infuse the pie with a smoky, zesty heat.

4. Vegetable Additions

   Feel free to play with different vegetables. Mushrooms, for example, bring an umami-rich, meaty texture that complements the lentils perfectly.

   You can also add sweet potato, parsnips, or butternut squash for a slightly sweet note that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Chopped spinach or kale would also be great for an added dose of greens.

5. Cheese Topping

   While Mary Berry’s recipe is vegetarian, it’s still perfect for those who enjoy a cheesy topping. A sprinkling of grated cheese-cheddar, Gruyère, or even a dairy-free alternative-can be added to the mashed potatoes before baking. This will give you a deliciously golden crust with a bit of melty cheese to balance the richness of the lentil filling.

6. Swap Mashed Potatoes for Sweet Potatoes

   If you’re looking for a healthier or slightly sweeter alternative, swap regular mashed potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes. The vibrant color and natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes will provide an interesting contrast to the savory filling, while still giving that classic comfort-food vibe.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

One of the joys of a dish like Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is that it makes fantastic leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly to ensure they stay delicious for as long as possible:

1. Cool the Pie Completely

   Before storing your leftover cottage pie, let it cool down to room temperature. If you try to store it while it’s still hot, condensation can form inside the container, leading to soggy leftovers. Allowing it to cool also helps preserve the flavors and texture better when reheated.

2. Store in an Airtight Container

   Transfer your leftover pie into an airtight container. This will protect the dish from absorbing other odors in the fridge and help it retain its freshness. If you have a large portion leftover, you can divide it into smaller portions for easier reheating and to help the pie cool more quickly.

3. Refrigerating Leftovers

   Store the leftover Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The dish holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors actually improve after sitting for a day, giving you an even richer, more intense taste.

4. Freezing for Longer Storage

   If you want to keep the cottage pie for longer, freezing it is a great option. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn, then place it in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

   When stored properly, the pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can bake it directly from the freezer or let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Reheating Tips

   To reheat, place the pie in the oven at a low temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to warm it through evenly. If you’re reheating a single portion, you can microwave it for convenience, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. You can also sprinkle a little water or vegetable broth on the pie before reheating to maintain moisture.

What Goes Well With Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie

Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is a complete, satisfying dish on its own, but there are plenty of sides that can complement its flavors and add variety to your meal. Here are a few options to consider:

1. A Fresh Green Salad

   A simple salad with a tangy dressing can help balance the rich and hearty flavors of the cottage pie. A mix of leafy greens, such as arugula or spinach, paired with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion, makes for a refreshing contrast. You could drizzle a lemony vinaigrette over the salad to add brightness and cut through the richness of the pie.

2. Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread

   If you’re craving some bread to go with your meal, a slice of warm, crusty bread or homemade garlic bread would be a wonderful addition. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious lentil sauce and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.

3. Steamed Vegetables

   Steamed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans can add extra fiber and color to the meal. These vegetables are light and crisp, making them a great choice to balance out the dense and filling nature of the cottage pie. A dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate their flavor.

4. Roasted Root Vegetables

   Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes are an excellent side. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables pairs well with the savory filling of the pie and adds a comforting, hearty touch. Toss them in olive oil and herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting for added flavor.

5. Pickles or Chutney

   A tangy chutney or a side of pickled vegetables provides a burst of acidity that complements the richness of the lentil pie. A sweet chutney, like mango or apple, can add an interesting contrast to the savory filling, while pickled red onions or gherkins add a sharp bite.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie is the epitome of comfort food-hearty, filling, and flavorful, with just the right balance of textures. Whether you choose to follow the classic recipe or experiment with some easy variations, this dish offers plenty of room for creativity. From swapping lentils for beans to adding extra vegetables or a cheesy topping, you can make it uniquely yours.

When storing leftovers, follow best practices for cooling, packaging, and reheating to ensure the dish remains just as tasty on day two or three. And, if you’re looking to round out the meal, there’s no shortage of delicious sides-from a crisp salad to hearty roasted vegetables or crusty bread.

In the end, this vegetarian cottage pie is a dish that brings people together, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a dish to share with friends, offering comfort and flavor that’s sure to leave everyone coming back for more.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

To make Mary Berry’s vegetarian lentil cottage pie, you’ll need ingredients such as lentils, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, vegetable stock, tomatoes, and herbs like thyme. For the topping, mashed potatoes, butter, and seasoning are required.

Can I Use Different Types Of Lentils In The Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

Yes, you can use different types of lentils, such as green or brown lentils, in Mary Berry’s recipe. However, red lentils may cook faster and create a softer texture, which could affect the final result slightly.

Is Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie Suitable For Vegans?

Mary Berry’s original recipe includes butter in the mashed potato topping, which is not suitable for vegans. However, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

Can I Make The Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the vegetarian lentil cottage pie ahead of time. Prepare the pie up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking, or add extra time in the oven if baking from chilled.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

Mary Berry’s vegetarian lentil cottage pie is a hearty dish on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or sautéed greens like spinach or kale for a complete meal.

Can I Add Extra Vegetables To The Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

Absolutely!

Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or zucchini to Mary Berry’s lentil cottage pie for additional flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of The Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

Store any leftover vegetarian lentil cottage pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in the oven until warmed through.

Can I Freeze The Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie?

Yes, the vegetarian lentil cottage pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly and freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven until hot throughout.

What Type Of Potatoes Should I Use For The Mashed Potato Topping?

For the mashed potato topping, it’s best to use starchy potatoes such as Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes. These varieties will give you a smooth and fluffy mash, which is perfect for the cottage pie topping.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Vegetarian Lentil Cottage Pie Gluten-free?

Yes, Mary Berry’s vegetarian lentil cottage pie can be made gluten-free. Ensure that the vegetable stock and any other ingredients you use, like sauces or pre-made items, are gluten-free. The recipe itself doesn’t contain any gluten, so it’s simple to adapt.