Vegan Bolognese

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, then this Vegan Bolognese is just what you need! Packed with hearty lentils and vibrant veggies, this dish bursts with flavor while being super easy to make. I love whipping it up on busy weeknights or for family gatherings because it’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—you can easily make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

The best part? You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will warm your heart and tummy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 40 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to enjoy!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this savory sauce served over pasta—no one will miss the meat!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This Vegan Bolognese keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
• Chock-Full of Veggies: It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables into your family’s diet.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste buds perfectly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Vegan Bolognese:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of lentils, try using chickpeas or quinoa for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.
• Change up the pasta: Use any pasta shape you like—whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles!

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. This step is optional; however, soaking helps them cook faster and improves digestion. If you’re opting for red lentils, you can skip this step altogether.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, mushrooms, and carrots. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in garlic, coconut sugar, and all spices. Sauté for another minute while stirring frequently—this brings out all those wonderful flavors!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add apple vinegar (or vegetable broth), crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and drained lentils into the pan. Stir well to combine all those delicious ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a boil then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Depending on their variety, cooking time may vary slightly.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

While your bolognese sauce is simmering away, cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions. This ensures everything is ready at the same time!

Step 6: Finish Up the Sauce

Once your lentils are tender, add soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. In a small bowl, mix plant-based milk and cornstarch until smooth before adding it to the pan. This will help thicken your sauce nicely.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasonings

Give your bolognese a taste! Adjust seasonings by adding more salt, black pepper, or spices as needed. If it looks too thick, feel free to add more vegetable broth until it’s just right.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve that luscious lentil bolognese over bowls of pasta with a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan on top if desired! Enjoy every bite! Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days—you might even find it’s better the next day!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Bolognese

Creating the perfect Vegan Bolognese can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with these helpful tips!

• Soak your lentils: Soaking lentils helps them cook faster and improves digestibility, making for a creamy and tender sauce that’s easy to enjoy.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking time to sauté your vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant builds a deep flavor base for your sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Everyone’s palate is different; don’t hesitate to adjust spices, salt, and pepper during cooking to find the perfect balance for you.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to throw in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini or even some fresh herbs at the end for added freshness and variation!

• Let it simmer longer if possible: If time allows, letting your Bolognese simmer a little longer can deepen the flavors, creating a richer sauce that you’ll love.

How to Serve Vegan Bolognese

Presenting your Vegan Bolognese beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds vibrant color and a burst of herbaceous flavor that complements the sauce beautifully.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of chili flakes on top can turn up the spice level just right!
• Vegan parmesan: A light dusting of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast gives an extra cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Its buttery garlic goodness pairs perfectly with pasta dishes.
• Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil and lemon juice adds freshness and balances out the hearty Bolognese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness. They make for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective! Steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the bolognese perfectly.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Vegan Bolognese meal! It’s not just about eating; it’s about enjoying every bite you take.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Bolognese is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or those looking to plan their meals ahead of time. You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The bolognese will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Allow the sauce to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Let the Bolognese cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label the container with the date and contents.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Vegan Bolognese recipe.

Can I make this Vegan Bolognese with different types of lentils?

Absolutely! While brown lentils work wonderfully, you can also use green or red lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the type you choose.

What’s the best way to serve Vegan Bolognese?

This Vegan Bolognese pairs beautifully with spaghetti, but feel free to get creative! It’s delicious over any pasta, zucchini noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.

How long does Vegan Bolognese last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vegan Bolognese can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Perfect for leftovers!

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. You can also ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free by opting for tamari.

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Bolognese?

Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or any other favorite veggies you have on hand!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Vegan Bolognese! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug served over your favorite pasta. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, I truly believe this dish will become a staple in your home. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment as you make it your own!