Description
A comforting and savory lentil bolognese that brings warmth and joy to any table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 sweet yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften (about 5–7 minutes), then stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant.
- Incorporate lentils and tomato paste: Add the rinsed lentils to the skillet along with the tomato paste. Stir everything well to coat the lentils and bring out the flavors.
- Add the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add your chosen herbs, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer until tender: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally; if the sauce gets too thick, a splash of water or broth will do wonders.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the bolognese. This is your chance to add more herbs, spices, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra zest.
- Serve with love: Spoon the Hearty Lentil Bolognese over your favorite pasta, serve it with crusty bread, or simply enjoy it on its own. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a delightful touch.
Notes
For added variety, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lentil, bolognese, vegetarian, comfort food, plant-based