Lentil Ragù: A Hearty Vegetarian Sauce Recipe
This lentil ragù is a rich and hearty alternative to the classic meat-based sauce, perfect for those looking for a delicious and nutritious plant-based option. Packed with the goodness of lentils, vegetables, and a hint of rosemary, this ragù makes a wonderful addition to pasta dishes, rice, or even as a topping for a baked potato. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and will surely satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried lentils | 500g |
| Tomato pulp | 800g |
| Water | 800g |
| Golden onions | 100g |
| Carrots | 80g |
| Celery stalk | 1 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
| Fresh rosemary | 4 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 15g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the vegetables: Begin by washing and peeling the carrots, celery, and onions. Once cleaned, finely chop the carrots and celery, and dice the onions into small pieces. Take the fresh rosemary and chop it finely to release its fragrance and oils.
-
-
Sauté the vegetables: In a large saucepan or pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, around 5-7 minutes.
-
Add the lentils and water: Pour the dried lentils into the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Then, add the tomato pulp and water to the pot. The liquid should cover the lentils by a couple of inches. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
-
Simmer and cook: Once the sauce begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the ragù cook for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You may need to add more water as it cooks to keep the mixture from becoming too dry.
-
Season and serve: After the lentils are fully cooked and tender, season the ragù with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and discard the rosemary sprigs. Stir everything together one last time, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
-
Serve: Your lentil ragù is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it over your favorite pasta, as a filling for lasagna, or as a topping for roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. This ragù also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Enjoy the comforting and healthy goodness of this vegetarian lentil ragù, perfect for any occasion. Its rich, savory flavors will make you forget it’s meatless!
This recipe is not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to switch up your pasta sauces or simply want to try something new, this lentil ragù is a delightful dish to add to your rotation. Try it out today, and you’ll see how easy it is to create a satisfying meal without meat!
