Description
A plant-based twist on the classic bolognese, packed with earthy flavors and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup brown or green lentils
- 2 cups cremini and shiitake mushrooms, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1–2 celery stalks, diced (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Olive oil, for sautéing
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the mushrooms: Toss in your chopped mushrooms and continue to cook until they’re browned and their moisture has evaporated.
- Add vegetables: Stir in diced carrots (and celery, if using) for an added pop of sweetness and color. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until they start to soften.
- Incorporate the lentils and tomatoes: Add your rinsed lentils followed by crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Simmer and stir: Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 35-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with herbs: Right at the end, fold in chopped fresh basil and thyme for brightness. Adjust seasoning to preference.
- Serve: Ladle generous portions over your favorite pasta or serve it over polenta or quinoa. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkling of nutritional yeast.
Notes
Letting the bolognese sit before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Lentil Bolognese, Vegetarian Pasta, Comfort Food, Plant-based, Italian Recipe