Description
A hearty and flavorful plant-based bolognese sauce made with brown or green lentils, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for pasta, lasagna, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3. Stir in the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Add the dried oregano, basil, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to combine.
- 4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- 6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, and with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast if desired.
Notes
Store cooled bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g