This quick and easy vegan lentil bolognese recipe is a hearty and flavorful plant-based twist on the classic Italian dish. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a vibrant array of vegetables, this vegan bolognese is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat-based bolognese, or simply exploring the world of vegan cooking, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Craving a comforting and wholesome meal without compromising on flavor? Look no further! This easy lentil bolognese recipe is a crowd-pleaser, bursting with the rich flavors of Italy. Inspired by the likes of Jamie Oliver and Deliciously Ella, this dish showcases the versatility of lentils, whether you prefer brown, green, or red. Get ready to savor every bite of this flavorful vegan bolognese, a simple yet impressive creation that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Estimated Cost: Approximately $6.75
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Lentils and Liquids
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and soy sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Serve
Remove the pot from the heat. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Vegan Lentil Bolognese over your favorite pasta or zoodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
Bon appétit!
Storage Instructions
- Cooling: Allow the vegan lentil bolognese to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the bolognese to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Leftovers will last for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled bolognese in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Methods
- Microwave: Transfer a portion of the Bolognese to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated.
- Stovetop: Place the desired amount of Bolognese in a saucepan. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).
- Oven (for larger quantities): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the bolognese to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts
Here is a nutrition facts table for vegan lentil bolognese. Keep in mind these values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
| Calories | 230 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Dietary Fiber | 15g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Iron | 6mg |
| Vitamin C | 12mg |
| Calcium | 80mg |
Dietary Information
Suitable for:
- Vegan: This recipe is completely plant-based, using lentils and vegetables as the main ingredients, making it perfect for a vegan diet.
- Vegetarian: Since there are no animal products, this dish is also suitable for vegetarians.
Not suitable for:
- Gluten-Free: While the lentil bolognese itself is gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free pasta or zoodles to make the entire meal gluten-free.
- Keto: This recipe contains lentils and carrots, which are relatively high in carbohydrates, so it is not suitable for a ketogenic diet.
This Vegan Lentil Bolognese is a great choice for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian diet. To adapt it for other diets, you can consider substituting certain ingredients as needed.
History of Vegan Lentil Bolognese
The history of vegan lentil bolognese is rooted in the broader movement towards plant-based eating and the adaptation of traditional recipes to suit vegan diets. While traditional Bolognese sauce typically includes ground meat, vegan lentil bolognese substitutes lentils to create a hearty, meat-free alternative.
Lentils have been a staple in Italian cooking for centuries, but the idea of using them as a primary ingredient in a Bolognese sauce is a more modern innovation. This adaptation aligns with the growing awareness of the health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets. By replacing meat with lentils, the dish retains its rich flavor and satisfying texture while being more sustainable and nutritious.
The beauty of vegan lentil bolognese lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be easily made with common pantry ingredients and pairs well with various types of pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. This dish has become popular among vegans and vegetarians looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Jamie Oliver’s lentil bolognese is a dish made with lentils, olive oil, onion, celery, carrot, garlic, rosemary, porcini mushrooms, bay leaves, tomato passata, vegetable stock, whole wheat pasta, vegan parmesan cheese, and parsley. Sauté vegetables, add lentils, mushrooms, and tomatoes, simmer until lentils are tender, mix with pasta. The resulting dish is rich and earthy with the addition of porcini mushrooms and rosemary flavor.
Deliciously Ella’s lentil bolognese is a dish made with lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, red pepper, tomato puree, vegetable stock, canned tomatoes, fresh basil, spinach (optional), nutritional yeast. Sauté vegetables, add lentils and tomatoes, simmer until lentils are tender, mix with pasta or serve over zoodles. The resulting dish is fresh and vibrant with a focus on whole foods and vegetables flavor.
Each recipe has its unique twist, but they all share the common theme of using lentils as a hearty, nutritious base for a delicious Bolognese sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creating a vegan lentil bolognese is a fantastic choice for a nutritious, delicious, and hearty meal. This recipe offers a wonderful alternative to traditional meat-based Bolognese, providing rich flavors and a satisfying texture through the use of lentils and a blend of vegetables and herbs.
Exploring and experimenting with plant-based recipes like this one not only adds variety to your diet but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. Cooking such meals can be both fun and rewarding, offering you the opportunity to enjoy wholesome and tasty food while being mindful of your health and the environment.
If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Enjoy your cooking and happy eating! 
