Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe

A plant-based twist on a classic Italian favorite.

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This plant-based twist on a classic Italian favorite is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional meat-based Bolognese.

Using ingredients such as lentils, tomatoes, onions, and aromatic herbs, this recipe delivers a rich and savory sauce that perfectly complements any pasta of your choice.

Ingredients for Vegan Lentil Bolognese

To prepare this Vegan Lentil Bolognese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Note: You can customize the recipe by adding additional vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain well.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery to the saucepan. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
4. Add the rinsed lentils to the saucepan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir again to incorporate the herbs and spices.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve the Vegan Lentil Bolognese over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Your Lentil Bolognese

• For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• If you prefer a spicier Bolognese, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper.
• To add a touch of sweetness, stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or balsamic vinegar.
• For a richer and creamier sauce, stir in a splash of plant-based milk or cream towards the end of cooking.

Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, adding more herbs, spices, or salt and pepper to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

This Vegan Lentil Bolognese pairs beautifully with a variety of pasta shapes, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Choose whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired. Top your dish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese for added cheesy flavor. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations of Vegan Lentil Bolognese

• Mediterranean Twist: Add a handful of pitted olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled vegan feta cheese to the sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
• Mexican-Inspired: Stir in some cumin, chili powder, and a can of black beans for a Mexican twist. Serve over rice or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Thai-Inspired: Add a tablespoon of red curry paste and a can of coconut milk to the sauce for a Thai-inspired lentil curry. Serve over jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts.

FAQs about Vegan Lentil Bolognese

Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils? A: While using canned lentils can save you time, the texture may be slightly softer. If you choose to use canned lentils, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze the Vegan Lentil Bolognese? A: Yes, this recipe freezes well. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q: How long does the Vegan Lentil Bolognese keep in the refrigerator? A: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Information of Vegan Lentil Bolognese

Here is the approximate nutritional information for one serving (without pasta and additional toppings):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g

Please note that these values may vary depending on the brands and quantities of ingredients used.

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