Vegan bolognaise

Dive into the rich and hearty flavors of our Vegan Bolognaise! This wholesome recipe combines sautéed onions, carrots, and celery with savory mushrooms, eggplant, and lentils. Seasoned with tomato puree, a spice mix, and a splash of vinegar, this sauce is cooked to perfection with fresh parsley and zesty lemon. It’s the ultimate plant-based comfort food that’s perfect for any pasta dish.

02 Sep 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 carrot
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
1 cup mushrooms
1 eggplant
2 tbsp tomato puree
1 can canned tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tsp spice mix
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp maple syrup
1 can canned lentils
1/4 cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp lemon zest
Vegan bolognaise

This Vegan Bolognese is a hearty and delicious alternative to the traditional meat-based sauce. Packed with vegetables, lentils, and a rich blend of spices, this dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and finely chopping the onion, carrot, celery, mushrooms, and eggplant. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Add the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms to the pan. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms begin to release their moisture.
5. Cook Eggplant: Add the finely chopped eggplant to the pan. Stir well and cook for about 5-8 minutes until the eggplant softens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Tomato Mixture: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato puree, making sure it’s well combined with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the canned tomatoes (with their juice) and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir in the spice mix, vinegar, and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Incorporate Lentils: Add the drained and rinsed lentils to the pan. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
9. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the bolognaise simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
10. Final Touches: About 5 minutes before the end of the simmering time, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and lemon zest.
11. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the bolognaise and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding salt and pepper to taste.
12. Serve: Serve the vegan bolognaise over your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce to your desired consistency.

- Add your favorite herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to enhance the flavor.

- Serve the Bolognese over your preferred pasta or use it as a filling for lasagna.

- This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

- Feel free to substitute other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a personal touch.

This Vegan Bolognese is a versatile and flavorful dish that proves you don't need meat to enjoy a rich and satisfying meal. With a myriad of vegetables and lentils providing texture and substance, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and veggies to make it your own!

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 10g
Sugar 9g
Fat 5g

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