Lentil Bolognese Simmered (Print-Friendly Recipe)

Simmered lentils with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil create a flavorful and hearty Italian dish.

# Ingredients List:

→ Legumes

01 - 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 large carrot, finely diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, finely diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Canned Goods & Broth

06 - 28 oz canned whole tomatoes, crushed
07 - 2 cups vegetable broth, low sodium

→ Herbs & Spices

08 - 2 teaspoons dried oregano
09 - Handful fresh basil leaves, chopped

→ Oils

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Pasta

11 - 400 grams pasta of choice

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
02 - Incorporate the minced garlic and dried oregano into the pot. Stir frequently and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Add the rinsed lentils, crushed canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the aromatics. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
04 - Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lentils become tender.
05 - Taste the sauce near the end of cooking and season with salt and pepper as needed.
06 - Stir chopped fresh basil into the sauce. Serve hot over cooked pasta or on its own for a comforting meal.

# Extra Information:

01 - For enhanced flavor, allow the sauce to rest for 10 minutes before serving to meld the ingredients.