Monster Mash

Is it just me or does everyone want to start bobbing their head, dancing about, and smile when they hear the words to the "Monster Mash"? I don't think of myself as a great singer, or even a not bad singer, but I can't even help but to start singing along when I hear that song.

At least Halloween is supposed to be scary, right?

To get in the Halloween spirit this year, I'll be sharing fun Halloween themed dishes in each post from now until the Big Day. The first one is my version of Life Made Delicious' Spooky Shepherd's Pie.  Life Made Delicious' version is perfect for a family that loves ground beef and my version is a great option of a vegetarian family. Other than that, the main difference is that ghosts haunt Life Made Delicious' version and green monsters are mashing on top of mine.

Monster Mash Gardener's Pie - serves 4-6

1 onion, peeled and diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon oil
1 package (340 g) of ground soy product
1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups of Green Giant Frozen Mixed Vegetables
2 tablespoons flour
1 small can of tomato paste
1 cup of water
Salt and pepper to taste
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk 
3 cups fresh baby spinach
Slices of olive or frozen peas, for eyes and mouths of the Monster Mash Potatoes

1.  Start by making your Monster Mash Potatoes. Boil your potatoes in well salted water until soft. Add the butter and mash them. In another pot, steam the spinach in the milk until limp. Purée the spinach and milk. Gradually add the spinach purée to the potatoes until your desired consistency is reached. Season to taste with salt and pepper and set aside. 

2. Next, in a large frying pan, cook the onion and garlic in the oil until soft.

3. Add the soy, beans, and frozen veggies. Stir together. Add the flour and stir again.

4. Add the tomato paste and water, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil and stir to allow mixture to thicken. 

5. Scoop veggie mixture into bowls and top with spoons of Monster Mash Potatoes. Dot olive slices or peas on the monsters to makes eyes and mouths. Enjoy!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger Program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.