Embrace the heartiness of Italian cuisine without the meat with our Vegetarian Bolognese recipe. This dish proves that you don’t need meat to enjoy the deep, rich flavors traditionally found in a Bolognese sauce.
Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce their meat intake, this recipe brings a wholesome twist to the classic, using plant-based ingredients to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Bolognese Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or portobello work well)
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (vegan or regular), for serving
- Cooked pasta of your choice
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Cook Mushrooms and Lentils: Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown. Stir in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. If using, pour in the red wine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with your favorite cooked pasta, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, and serve.
Conclusion
This Vegetarian Bolognese recipe is a testament to the versatility and richness of plant-based cooking. Offering a comforting and hearty meal that satisfies the soul without compromising on flavor, it’s a perfect choice for any day of the week. Remember, the secret to a great Vegetarian Bolognese lies in the quality of your ingredients, so choose them with care.
Product Recommendations
Elevate your Vegetarian Bolognese with these Amazon finds:
- High-Quality Chef’s Knife: A durable and sharp knife is essential for finely chopping your vegetables.
- Cast Iron Dutch Oven: Perfect for simmering your Bolognese, ensuring even cooking and enhanced flavors.
- Organic Lentils: Opt for high-quality lentils as the base of your Bolognese for the best texture and taste.
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