| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 377 | 9g | 1.3g | 58g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 11g | 17g | 18g | 1.0g |
As a woman of French-Creole descent, I am a fervent believer in a certain je ne sais quoi in every dish which ignites the spirit. That is why I am infatuated with this Lentil Bolognese recipe. On first sight, this humble dish may seem worlds apart from the delicately balanced eclairs and beignets usually on my table, but just like them, it speaks to the soul. There is a simple elegance in this hearty and robust dish that resonates on a profoundly deep level with my culinary sensibilities.
A Dish With Roots
While Lentil Bolognese may not have the romantic appeal of a French dessert or the zest of Louisiana-style cuisine, it embodies homely comfort in every bite. Drawing on the rich flavors and wholesome ingredients of traditional Bolognese sauce, it calls forth both my love for earthy, substantial dishes and the desire for something refreshing and new. It’s akin to a delicious vegetable stew, served with the pasta of choice – robust, rustic, and satisfying. In essence, it’s the kind of dish that gives you a warm hug on a cold day.
The Health Factor
But let’s not forget about the incredible health benefits that come with this recipe. Lentils, the star ingredient, are a powerhouse of nutrition. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and potassium, making the Lentil Bolognese not only a meal for the soul but also the body. The vegetables add another layer of goodness, with important vitamins and antioxidants that promote general wellness.
Moreover, this recipe is unusually flexible and forgiving to dietary restrictions. For the vegans and vegetarians out there, leaving out the Parmesan topping makes it a stellar plant-based meal. A gluten-free pasta option can also cater to those with specific dietary needs.
Importantly, you can find more detailed information about the health benefits of lentils here. Knowledge is power, and understanding the benefits of what you eat can only add to the experience of enjoying this delightful dish.
Pairing Suggestions
If you are keen on exploring further, Lentil Bolognese also pairs remarkably well with various dishes. It goes wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, or for more ambitious foodies, a dish of roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus. Moreover, this hearty meal is an excellent companion to crusty bread or garlic knots. The possibilities are truly endless, and the adventure in pairing and creating your unique meal experience is an added joy to this dish.
In conclusion, If you are looking for a dish that radiates warmth, comfort, and good health, look no further. Lentil Bolognese, a seemingly humble dish, has stolen my heart and continues to surprise me with its rustic elegance. It is, in essence, a testament to the magic that simple, wholesome ingredients can create when combined with love and passion.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups green lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Pasta of your choice for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing 2 cups of green lentils. Set these aside for later.
Step Two
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once heated, add in your diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onions become translucent and soft.
Step Three
Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the saucepan. Continue to cook until all the vegetables are tender. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step Four
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, making sure all vegetables get covered. Next, add the vegetable broth, red wine, dried oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Five
Add your rinsed lentils to the saucepan, stir to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a simmer, then cover the saucepan. Let this cook for about 40-45 minutes, or until the lentils become tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid sticking at the bottom of the saucepan.
Step Six
Once finished, serve this delicious Lentil Bolognese over your choice of pasta. If you’d like, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Lentil Bolognese!
