Description
A thick, savory, and protein-rich plant-based sauce that mimics the classic Italian meat sauce using lentils and finely diced vegetables. Perfect for a comforting and healthy family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200g) dried lentils (brown or green)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 1 onion (150g), finely chopped
- 2 carrots (200g), diced
- 2 celery stalks (150g), diced
- 3 cloves garlic (15g), minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (5g) dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils: Rinse lentils and cook according to package instructions until tender but firm. Set aside.
- Build the Flavor Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine and Thicken: Add the cooked lentils to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce deepens in flavor and thickens.
- Serve: Serve hot over your favorite pasta or grains.
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Soffritto: Properly softening the onions, carrots, and celery is essential for a deep flavor foundation.
- Lentil Choice: Use brown or green lentils; red lentils will break down too much and change the texture.
- Umami Boost: For extra depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or tamari during the simmering stage.
- Storage: This sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan bolognese, lentil sauce, plant-based pasta, healthy dinner, gluten-free sauce, vegetarian bolognese
