Ultimate Vegan Lentil Bolognese Recipe

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Indulge in the ultimate Vegan Lentil Bolognese, a hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. Packed with savory flavors from sautéed veggies, rich tomatoes, and tender lentils, this dish offers a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Paired with whole wheat spaghetti, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that celebrates compassion and sustainability—without compromising on flavor!

Ingredients:

Lentil Bolognese:

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

• 1 Medium Onion, finely chopped

• 3 Cloves Garlic, minced

• 2 Medium Carrots, diced

• 1 Celery Stalk, diced

• 1 (15-ounce) Can Crushed Tomatoes

• 1½ Cups Cooked Brown Lentils (or 1 Can Lentils, Drained)

• ½ Cup Red Wine (optional)

• 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste

• 1 Tablespoon Soy Sauce or Tamari

• 2 Tablespoons Nutritional Yeast

• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil

• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika

• ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)

• Salt and Pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 1 lb Whole Wheat Spaghetti (or gluten-free pasta of choice)

• Fresh Basil, for garnish

• Vegan Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to develop the flavor. Add the red wine (if using) and simmer until reduced by half.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cooked lentils, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.

4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. Taste the bolognese and adjust seasoning as needed. For a richer flavor, add more soy sauce or nutritional yeast.

6. Serve the lentil bolognese over spaghetti, and garnish with fresh basil and vegan parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this hearty, protein-packed vegan version of the classic Italian Bolognese. It’s full of deep, savory flavors that will satisfy even the most devout pasta lovers. Plus, by opting for plant-based ingredients, you're making a compassionate and eco-friendly choice. Buon appetito!