Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a large pot with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender.
2. While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked lentils, vegetable broth, and red wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve over your favorite pasta.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lentils: You can use any type of lentil for this recipe.
- Crushed tomatoes: You can use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce instead.
- Vegetable broth: You can use chicken broth or water instead.
- Red wine: You can omit this ingredient if you prefer.
Variations:
- Add chopped mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use this sauce as a topping for baked potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy weeknight meal.
- Use a food processor to finely chop the vegetables for a smoother sauce.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve over your favorite pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lentils thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Bolognese sauce originated in Bologna, Italy in the 18th century. It traditionally contains ground meat, but this lentil version is a vegetarian twist on the classic.
Flavor profiles:
- This lentil bolognese has a rich and savory flavor with hints of tomato and herbs.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve over your favorite pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Region: Italian