This recipe takes some time, but it's well worth it. I usually coook the different layers the night before I plan on having it, then make the gravy, assemble and bake the next day. It satisfies all my longings for creamy comfort food.
Mashed Potato Layer:
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
paprika
Lentil Layer:
3 cups water
1 cup lentils
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp each paprika, dried basil & oregano
1 tsp curry powder
salt to taste
Veggie Layer:
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 cups green beans, chopped or red potatoes, cubed
Cashew Gravy
The Lentils: Put 3 cups of water, lentils, salt and bay leaf in a large pan. Boil for 15 minutes or so, until lentils are no longer crunchy (but not mushy!). Drain off any excess cooking water. Add rest of the spices. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Spread lentil mixture in the bottom of a casserole pan.
The Veggies: Saute the garlic, carrots, green beans/potatoes and olive oil over medium heat until no longer crunchy. Spread the veggies on top of the lentils. Pour the gravy over the veggies.
All Together Now: Spread the mashed potatoes on top of the veggies. Garnish the top of the potatoes with paprika. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top of the potatoes is slightly browned.
