Vegan Bolognese

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Vegan Bolognese is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that I keep coming back to, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends. The best part? It’s simple, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it a go-to in our home.

This dish brings together everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand. With its rich tomato base and tender lentils, it’s satisfying without being heavy. Plus, it’s perfect for everyone—vegan or not! You can easily whip it up in about 40 minutes, so let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect even for the busiest of weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta! This hearty sauce is packed with veggies and flavors that appeal to all ages.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste!
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with lentils and fresh veggies, this Vegan Bolognese is not only tasty but also healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Vegan Bolognese, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

For the Lentils

• 1 cup dry lentils (I used brown, soaked)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free if needed or tamari)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

For Serving

• 1/2 cup plant-based milk
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 8 oz spaghetti (gluten-free if needed or pasta of choice)
• Vegan parmesan (or nutritional yeast to garnish (optional))

Variations

This Vegan Bolognese is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
• Swap the Protein: Try using chickpeas or quinoa instead of lentils for a different texture.
• Change Up the Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, spiralized vegetables, or gluten-free options depending on your preference.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce!

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. Soaking helps them cook faster and makes them easier to digest. If you’re using red lentils, feel free to skip this step!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, celery, mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Stirring in garlic along with sweetener and spices will add depth of flavor—sauté for another minute while stirring frequently.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add apple vinegar (or additional vegetable broth), crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and drained lentils into the pan. Stir everything well until combined.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Let this mixture come to a boil before reducing the heat. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes until the lentils are tender. Keep an eye on it; different types of lentils may take varying times!

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

While your bolognese is simmering away, boil your favorite pasta according to package instructions. I usually prefer spaghetti because it pairs beautifully with the sauce!

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in soy sauce and balsamic vinegar into your bolognese mix. In a small bowl, whisk together plant-based milk and cornstarch before adding it into the sauce; this will thicken it nicely.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust

Give your bolognese a taste! Adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or even more herbs as desired. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add more vegetable broth.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally! Serve your delicious lentil bolognese over cooked pasta in bowls. If desired, sprinkle some vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite!

And remember—any leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to four days! Perfect for those busy days when cooking feels like a chore.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Bolognese

Creating the perfect Vegan Bolognese is all about technique and timing. Here are some valuable tips to elevate your dish!

• Soak your lentils: Soaking lentils can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, leading to a more enjoyable meal.
• Use fresh herbs: If available, fresh herbs can add an aromatic quality that dried herbs simply can’t match. They brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
• Don’t rush the sauté: Taking your time to sauté the vegetables until they are soft and slightly caramelized develops deeper flavors in your sauce.
• Adjust the thickness: If your sauce is too thick, feel free to add a bit more vegetable broth or water. The right consistency is key for coating pasta evenly.
• Let it sit: Allowing your bolognese to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Vegan Bolognese

Serving Vegan Bolognese isn’t just about placing it on a plate; it’s about creating an experience! Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal visually appealing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly torn basil adds a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the sauce perfectly.
• Vegan parmesan: A dusting of vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast not only enhances flavor but also adds a cheesy richness without dairy.
• Cracked black pepper: A generous grind of black pepper brings an extra layer of warmth and spice that rounds out the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a classic accompaniment that pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, allowing you to soak up every last drop of sauce.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element to your meal. Its slight bitterness contrasts wonderfully with the rich bolognese.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty bolognese sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables offer additional texture and flavor. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, making them a fantastic side.

Now, gather your ingredients and get ready for a comforting bowl of Vegan Bolognese that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Bolognese is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Making a big batch ensures you have hearty, comforting meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled Vegan Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can be kept for up to 4 days.
• If you’ve mixed it with pasta, consider storing them separately to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed for moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Bolognese!

Can I use other types of lentils for this Vegan Bolognese?

Yes! While brown lentils work wonderfully, you can also use green or red lentils. Just keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and may change the texture slightly.

How do I make my Vegan Bolognese more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding extra herbs like fresh basil or thyme. Additionally, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or zucchini for more depth and variety.

Can I prepare Vegan Bolognese ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later use.

What are some good pasta alternatives for Vegan Bolognese?

Feel free to get creative! Zucchini noodles, whole-grain pasta, or gluten-free options are all fantastic choices to pair with this savory sauce.

Can Vegan Bolognese be made without onion or garlic?

Certainly! You can omit onion and garlic if desired. For flavor, try using leeks or shallots instead, or experiment with other herbs and spices to make it your own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy and satisfying Vegan Bolognese as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring people together around a warm bowl of goodness. Feel free to customize it to your taste and share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!