Are you ready to indulge in a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy? Look no further than our Vegan Bolognese Easy Protein Rich recipe! This delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 40 minutes that will impress even the most discerning palates. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a vibrant, nutrient-dense Bolognese that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Dive into our recipe to discover how to create this scrumptious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This will help remove any dirt or debris. Set them aside to drain.
- In a large pot or skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. The garlic should become fragrant.
- Next, add the diced carrot to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the carrot begins to soften.
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, followed by the can of crushed tomatoes. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure the lentils and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
- Add 2 cups of water to the pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Check the consistency of the Bolognese. If it appears too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Vegan Bolognese over your favorite pasta or grain, and enjoy a protein-rich, hearty meal!
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. This simple step ensures a cleaner and tastier dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Taking the time to cook the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and translucent will add depth and richness to your Bolognese.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. The more colorful, the better!
- Simmer for Success: Allow the mixture to simmer gently. This not only helps the lentils cook through but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust Consistency: If your Bolognese is too thick, simply add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve with Style: Pair your Vegan Bolognese with whole grain pasta, quinoa, or even spiralized vegetables for a healthy twist. Top with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
