Irresistible Vegan Bolognese: Comfort Food Made Easy
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta and sauce, especially when it’s a hearty Vegan Bolognese. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not just delicious; it’s also easy to make using ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
What I love most about this Vegan Bolognese is its versatility. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight meals, meal prep for the week ahead, or impressing guests with your culinary skills. With a rich blend of flavors and textures, it’s hard to believe this dish is both vegan and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– A comforting classic: This Vegan Bolognese brings the beloved flavors of traditional Italian cooking right to your table.
– Packed with nutrition: Loaded with lentils and veggies, this dish is not only filling but also full of nutrients.
– Simple and quick: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this savory sauce in no time.
– Perfectly adaptable: Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or pasta type.
– Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just as good (if not better) the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Vegan Bolognese, gather these simple ingredients from your pantry and fridge. You’ll be amazed at how easily they come together to create such an incredible dish.
For the Sauce
– 1 tbsp oil
– 1 medium onion (finely diced)
– 1 medium stalk celery (finely diced (1/2 cup))
– 10 oz fresh mushrooms (finely diced (or 1 oz dried))
– 2 medium carrots (finely grated)
– 4 cloves garlic (finely minced or crushed)
– 2 tsp Italian seasoning (or use 1 tsp each of dried oregano and basil)
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp coconut sugar (or sweetener of choice)
– Pinch of red pepper flakes (or to taste)
– Salt and black pepper (to taste)
– 1/3 cup apple vinegar (or use more vegetable broth)
– 3 cups crushed tomatoes (or marinara sauce or tomato sauce)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup dry lentils (I used brown, soaked)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free if needed or tamari)
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup plant-based milk
– 1 tsp cornstarch
For Serving
– 8 oz spaghetti (gluten-free if needed or pasta of choice)
– Vegan parmesan (or nutritional yeast to garnish (optional))
Variations
One of the best things about cooking is that you can always make a recipe your own! Here are some fun variations for this Vegan Bolognese:
– Swap the protein: Replace lentils with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a different texture.
– Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
– Change up the pasta: Use whole grain, gluten-free, or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini as your base.
– Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños.
How to Make Vegan Bolognese
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
I recommend soaking the lentils in lukewarm water if you are using green or brown lentils. This step is optional; however, soaking helps them cook faster and improves digestion. If you’re using red lentils, you can skip this step altogether.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they’re tender. Then stir in garlic along with the sweetener and all spices. Sauté for another minute, stirring frequently—this brings out all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add apple vinegar (or vegetable broth), crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and drained lentils into the pot. Stir everything together until well combined; this mix will form the base of your flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to simmer for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on those lentils! Depending on their variety, they may need a little less or more time to become tender.
Step 5: Cook Your Pasta
While your bolognese simmers away beautifully, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions. It’s great timing so that everything comes together seamlessly!
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the lentils are tender, add soy sauce and balsamic vinegar to deepen the flavors. In a small bowl, mix plant-based milk with cornstarch until smooth; then add that mixture into your pot. This will help thicken your sauce perfectly.
Step 7: Taste Test
Now’s the time for some quality control! Taste your bolognese and adjust seasonings if necessary—feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
Step 8: Serve It Up
Spoon generous portions of lentil bolognese over your pasta in bowls and sprinkle on some vegan parmesan if desired. Enjoy every bite! Any leftovers? Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to four days for another satisfying meal later on.
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Bolognese
Making a delicious Vegan Bolognese is all about building layers of flavor and texture. Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:
– Use fresh veggies: Fresh, seasonal vegetables can enhance the taste and nutritional value of your bolognese. Don’t hesitate to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
– Experiment with lentils: Different types of lentils have varied cooking times and textures. Brown lentils hold their shape well, while red lentils cook faster and create a creamier sauce. Choose based on your preference!
– Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak the spices, adding more red pepper flakes for heat or additional herbs for freshness until it suits your palate.
– Let it simmer: Allowing the bolognese to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. If you have time, let it cook on low heat for an extra 10-15 minutes.
– Opt for quality tomatoes: Using high-quality crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your bolognese, so choose wisely!
How to Serve Vegan Bolognese
Serving your Vegan Bolognese beautifully not only makes it more appetizing but also adds a special touch to your meal. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.
Garnishes
– Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and a fragrant aroma.
– Nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle some nutritional yeast over the top before serving.
Side Dishes
– Garlic bread: Nothing pairs better with pasta than crispy garlic bread, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
– Side salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinaigrette complements the hearty bolognese perfectly.
– Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a nutritious and flavorful side that balances the richness of the sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping is a great way to enjoy Vegan Bolognese throughout the week without much effort. Here’s how you can store it properly:
Storing Leftovers
– Once cooled, transfer any leftover bolognese into an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
– Allow the bolognese to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
– It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label with dates!
Reheating
– To reheat from refrigerated, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through.
– For frozen bolognese, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.
FAQs
If you’re curious about Vegan Bolognese or have some questions before diving in, here are some common queries answered:
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes! If you’re short on time, canned lentils work just fine. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to your bolognese.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can replace soy sauce with tamari (for gluten-free) or liquid aminos if you’re looking for an alternative flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! By using gluten-free pasta options and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, this dish can easily be made suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this comforting Vegan Bolognese in your kitchen! It’s not only easy but also filled with nutrients and flavors that everyone will love. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!
Vegan Bolognese
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the lentils in lukewarm water if using green or brown lentils. This step is optional; however, soaking helps them cook faster and improves digestion.
- Heat oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until tender. Stir in garlic along with the sweetener and all spices. Sauté for another minute.
- Add apple vinegar (or vegetable broth), crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and drained lentils into the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to simmer for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on those lentils!
- While your bolognese simmers, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions.
- Once the lentils are tender, add soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. Mix plant-based milk with cornstarch until smooth; then add that mixture into your pot.
- Taste your bolognese and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Spoon generous portions of lentil bolognese over your pasta in bowls and sprinkle on some vegan parmesan if desired.
