Irresistible Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe to Try Tonight

The rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and earthy lentils wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a cozy Italian trattoria. This Vegan Lentil Bolognese is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart.

Picture this: you gather your loved ones around the table, bowls brimming with luscious pasta adorned with vibrant bolognese sauce, laughter echoing as everyone digs in. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering. Prepare to savor each delightful bite!

My friends still rave about that time I served this dish at our potluck; they couldn’t believe it was vegan!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Brown Lentils: These hold their shape well during cooking and provide a hearty texture that mimics traditional meat sauces.

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Choose high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor; they’ll form the base of your rich sauce.

• Carrots: Chopped finely, they add natural sweetness and a delightful crunch to the mix.

• Onion: A must-have for flavor; sauté until translucent for that aromatic foundation of your sauce.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are essential for an irresistible aroma; don’t be shy with this ingredient!

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for drizzling over finished dishes or sautéing veggies to infuse richness.

• Basil and Oregano: Dried herbs will elevate the flavor profile; consider adding fresh basil right before serving for freshness.

• Vegetable Broth: This adds depth to the sauce; use low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.

• Pasta of Choice: Any type works beautifully—spaghetti, penne, or even zoodles if you’re feeling adventurous!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Vegan Lentil Bolognese

Preparation of Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the lentils under cold water until clear. Dice the onion and carrots finely so they cook evenly.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until onions become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it releases its heavenly aroma. Stir frequently to avoid burning it.

Combine Lentils and Tomatoes: Stir in rinsed lentils along with canned diced tomatoes. Pour in vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Add Herbs and Seasoning: Sprinkle in dried basil and oregano while stirring well. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.

Serve Over Pasta: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, serve it over cooked pasta of choice. Top with fresh basil if desired!

This Vegan Lentil Bolognese is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients! Enjoy this comforting dish while knowing you’re treating yourself well—your body will thank you later!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; then add lentils and tomatoes for a rich sauce. Simmer everything together to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the lentils for mushrooms or add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Vegan Lentil Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

There was that one time I cooked this Vegan Lentil Bolognese for my friends’ potluck, and they practically licked their plates clean. I’ve never felt more like a culinary rock star!

FAQ

Can I make Vegan Lentil Bolognese ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.

What type of lentils should I use?

Brown or green lentils work best due to their texture and ability to hold shape.

How can I thicken my sauce?

If your sauce is too runny, simmer it longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

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Vegan Lentil Bolognese

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Vegan Lentil Bolognese is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a rich, savory experience that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. This hearty sauce, made with tender lentils and vibrant tomatoes, is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether served over pasta, rice, or baked potatoes, this dish warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup brown lentils
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pasta of choice (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Rinse lentils under cold water until clear. Finely dice onion and carrots.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots; sauté for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rinsed lentils and canned tomatoes to the skillet. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Mix in dried basil and oregano; allow to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Serve over cooked pasta of your choice, garnishing with fresh basil if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 17g
• Cholesterol: 0mg