1. In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or other 3-quart oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat the 1 tablespoon olive oil. At the same time, fill a pot halfway with lightly salted water and bring to a boil over high heat.

2. When the oil is shimmering in the skillet, add the onion and mushrooms; saute until the mushrooms have released their liquid, about 7 minutes.

3. When the water in the pot comes to a boil, add the peeled and chopped potatoes (for mashed potatoes).

4. When the onions and mushrooms have cooked down in the skillet, add the lentils and broth to the skillet; set heat to medium and let simmer (uncovered) for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

5. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375 degrees and position a rack in the top third of the oven. Once the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, drain the water from the pot and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Using a hand mixer, whip the potatoes until they are well mashed and creamy, increasing the speed as you continue to whip for a full minute or two. Add ½ to 1 cup broth and continue to whip until the potatoes are very creamy. Add the chives and whip again until the chives are incorporated. Set the mashed potatoes aside. (you can whip the potatoes with a stand mixer or a hand potato masher.)

6. Back at the skillet, once the lentils have cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, add the frozen peas and carrots mix, coconut milk, garlic, coconut aminos, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and increase heat to bring to a simmer.

7. In a small bowl or dish, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water; whisk until the cornstarch is dissolved. Then, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the mixture in the skillet, stirring until well incorporated and the mixture thickens to a gravy, about 1-2 minutes.

8. Remove the skillet from the heat and place the skillet on a sheet pan. Gently add the mashed potatoes in a layer over the lentil-gravy mixture. Use the back of a spoon to spread the potatoes evenly in a wavy pattern.

9.Place the sheet pan with the skillet on the top rack in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

10. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish servings with chives or fresh parsley.

Dairy Free

Egg Free

Fruit Free

Gluten Free

Meat Free

Potato Free

Soy Free

Sugar Free