Hearty Lentil Bolognese

This warm, hearty bowl of lentil bolognese comes together in under 30 minutes but has a depth and richness of flavor that tastes as if it took hours to come together.

INGREDIENTS:

-1 tbsp olive oil

-3/4 cup chopped onion

-3/4 cup chopped celery 

-5 cloves garlic, minced

-1/4 tsp chili powder

-1/2 tsp oregano 

-2 and 3/4 cups cooked brown lentils

-1/4 cup veggie broth (1/2 tsp bouillon with 1/4 cup hot water)

-2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

-1 and 2/3 cups of tomato sauce (or 1 cup of plain tomato sauce with -2/3 cups of flavored sauce, like Engine 2 tomato sauce)

-1 tbsp tomato paste

-Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Begin cooking the lentils to package directions.

  2. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes in the oil.

  3.Add the celery and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes more. If the veggies begin to brown, add a little water to continue the cooking. The veggies should be pretty soft. 

 4. Add the chili powder, oregano and tomato paste and stir through.

  5.Add cooked lentils, broth, soy sauce and tomato sauce and stir.

  6.Let simmer for about 10 minutes to reduce. Stir every few minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve over pasta :)