When you think of comfort food, one dish that likely comes to mind is a steaming, golden-brown cottage pie. This Classic Vegan Cottage Pie delivers all the heartiness and flavor of the original, without any animal products. With its creamy mashed potato topping and rich, savory filling, it’s a meal that satisfies vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why Vegan Cottage Pie?

1. Sustainable and Kind

Switching to plant-based options like vegan mince reduces your environmental footprint while showing compassion to animals.

2. Packed with Nutrition

This vegan version is loaded with protein, vitamins, and fiber, thanks to the inclusion of veggies and plant-based protein.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy meal for one, vegan cottage pie always hits the spot.

Ingredients for Classic Vegan Cottage Pie

Mashed Potato Topping

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Potatoes (Maris Piper)	1.5 kg	Creamy topping
Vegan cream	200 ml	Adds richness
Vegan butter	50 g	Creamy and buttery flavor
Salt and black pepper	To taste	Balances the flavors

Filling

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Olive oil	1 tbsp	For sautéing
Onion	1, finely diced	Adds sweetness
Celery	1 stick, diced	Adds depth
Carrot	1, diced	Sweet and earthy taste
Vegan mince	300 g	Protein-packed main ingredient
Tomato puree	1 tbsp	Rich tomato flavor
Ketchup	1 tbsp	Sweet and tangy flavor
Boiling water	400 ml	Base for the sauce
Vegetable stock cube	1	Enhances flavor
Red wine	100 ml	Depth of flavor (optional)
Thyme (fresh)	4 sprigs	Earthy herb
Frozen peas	100 g	Pops of sweetness
Cornstarch	1 tsp	Thickens the sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Add them to a pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 15 minutes, until fork-tender.
2. Drain and Steam: Drain the potatoes and let them steam in the colander for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture.
3. Mash and Mix: Mash the potatoes, adding vegan cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and set aside.

2. Cook the Filling

1. Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add Vegan Mince: Stir in the vegan mince and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Create the Sauce: Add tomato puree, ketchup, boiling water, and a crumbled vegetable stock cube. Pour in the red wine if using. Stir well.
4. Season and Simmer: Add thyme, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and marmite. Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish with Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

3. Assemble the Cottage Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 170°C.
2. Layer the Dish: Pour the filling into a large baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
3. Top with Vegan Cheese: Sprinkle grated vegan cheese and a pinch of sea salt over the mashed potatoes.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve your vegan cottage pie with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Cottage Pie

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	8g
Fat	10g

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Cottage Pie

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

Floury varieties like Maris Piper create the creamiest mashed potato topping.

2. Let the Filling Cool

Before adding the mashed potatoes, allow the filling to cool slightly. This helps the layers stay distinct during baking.

3. Customize the Veggies

Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or zucchini for extra nutrition and variety.

FAQs About Classic Vegan Cottage Pie

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your vegan mince and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

2. Can I freeze vegan cottage pie?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months.

3. What’s the best way to reheat it?

Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and vibrant color.

5. How can I add more protein?

Consider adding lentils or chickpeas to the filling for a protein boost.

6. Is red wine necessary?

Not at all. You can replace it with additional vegetable broth for an alcohol-free option.

Conclusion: A Dish for Every Occasion

This Classic Vegan Cottage Pie is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner every time.

Your Turn: Make It Tonight!

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the rich, savory goodness of this plant-based classic. You won’t miss the meat—guaranteed!

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