Ingredients

  • 1 (14 ounce) can vegetable broth
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 lbs parsnips, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch slices
  • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut up
  • 3 tablespoons butter or 3 tablespoons margarine
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 - 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded colby cheese

Method

  • In a large pot, add broth, water, lentils and garlic.
  • Bring mixture to boiling; lower heat and cover.
  • Simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Add parsnips and onions.
  • Return mixture to boiling; lower heat and cover.
  • Simmer for 15 minutes or until veggies and lentils are tender.
  • Remove pot from heat.
  • Stir in tomatoes and tomato paste.
  • In a 2-quart saucepan, cook potatoes in salted water to cover for 20-25 minutes or until tender; drain.
  • Mash potatoes with a potato masher or whip with an electric mixer.
  • Add butter, thyme, and salt.
  • Gradually beat in enough milk to get a fluffy consistency.
  • Stir in 1 cup of cheese until melted.
  • Spread lentil mixture into an oblong or appropriate size casserole.
  • Top with potato mixture.
  • Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
  • Uncover and sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheese.
  • Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese melts.