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Rich Vegan Lentil Bolognese with Red Wine Reduction

Close-up of a hearty serving of Vegan Lentil Bolognese piled high on spaghetti noodles in a white bowl.
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A hearty, deeply flavored plant-based sauce using lentils and hidden vegetables to mimic traditional bolognese texture.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, substitute with more broth)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped zucchini or mushrooms (optional, for texture)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until it reduces by half, about 3 minutes.
  5. Add the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, chopped zucchini/mushrooms (if using), and soy sauce/tamari.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Remove the bay leaf. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve hot over your preferred pasta.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • This sauce freezes well for up to three months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
  • Serve with spaghetti, pappardelle, or use it as a layer in vegan lasagna.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or vegan parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonswirl.com/vegan-lentil-bolognese-recipe/