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Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe

Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe

This Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe is rich, comforting and full of flavor. It is a perfect plant-based version of the classic Italian sauce. Instead of meat, this recipe uses lentils, which are filling and healthy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 carrots finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Rinse the Lentils

  • Place lentils in a strainer. Rinse under cold water. Remove any debris or damaged lentils.

Cook the Lentils

  • Add lentils to a pot with water. Simmer until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Heat the Oil

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Let it warm gently before adding vegetables.

Cook the Onion

  • Add chopped onion to the pot. Cook until soft and translucent, stirring often to prevent browning.

Add Carrots and Celery

  • Add diced carrots and celery. Cook for five minutes until slightly soft and fragrant.

Add Garlic

  • Add minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for one minute until aroma releases.

Stir in Tomato Paste

  • Add tomato paste. Stir well and cook two minutes to deepen the tomato flavor.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

  • Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Add Lentils and Spices

  • Add cooked lentils, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well so flavors combine.

Simmer the Sauce

  • Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for thirty minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Balance the Flavor

  • Add sugar or maple syrup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Finish the Sauce

  • Turn off heat. Let sauce rest five minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Use red lentils for a softer texture.
  • Add mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
  • Blend part of the sauce for a smoother consistency.
  • Use canned lentils to save time.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Replace lentils with chickpeas for variation.
  • Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.
Keyword Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe