Lentil Bolognese Recipe for the Instant Pot

February 23, 2024 - By admin

Wholesome Delight: The Ultimate Lentil Bolognese Recipe for the Instant Pot

In the realm of hearty and satisfying meals, few dishes rival the comforting allure of a well-made bolognese sauce. Traditionally, bolognese sauce is synonymous with ground meat simmered in a rich tomato base. However, for those seeking a fast, nutritious and delicious alternative, look no further than a lentil bolognese recipe in the Instant Pot. Bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness, lentil bolognese offers a plant-based twist on this beloved Italian classic which is affordable to the budget aware mom.

Lentils, the star ingredient of this recipe, are legumes prized for their versatility and nutritional benefits. As a meat alternative, lentils offer a wealth of advantages that make them a standout choice for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Made in the Instant Pot, the flavor stands out too! Here’s why a lentil bolognaise recipe is a fantastic substitute for meat bolognese:

Rich in Protein: Lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, making them an excellent meat alternative for those looking to boost their protein intake. In fact, just one cup of cooked lentils provides approximately 18 grams of protein, making them a satisfying and nourishing addition to any meal.
High in Fiber: Fiber is essential for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after meals. Lentils are loaded with fiber, with one cup containing around 15 grams, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Low in Fat: Unlike many animal-based proteins, lentils are naturally low in fat, making them a heart-healthy choice. By incorporating lentils into your diet, you can enjoy the benefits of protein without the added saturated fat found in meat.

How do I make this Lentil Bolognese Recipe without spending too much?

It is important that you are able to make this meal without spending too much, so when you plan on making a meal with lentils, do plan ahead so that you can make other meals with the lentils you bought, too.

The easiest is to buy no name ingredients. The no name ingredients from Superstore for example, are relatively cheap and affordable for most budgets. Again though, work out how many meals you can get out of this first, before you plan this meal. Yes, it’s a easy and cheap lentil bolognese meal, but it needs to work out financially with other meals you can make with the lentils. Only then, will it be economical.

When you use tomato paste, a good idea is to either buy the tube and keep it in the fridge, or to freeze what is left in the can. That way, you can use it again and not waste money on it. In today’s economy, every cent counts, including the cents you spend on this lentil bolognese meal.

Now, let’s dive into a simple yet sensational lentil bolognese recipe in the Instant Pot that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body:

Lentil Bolognese Recipe For The Instant Pot

Ingredients:

3/4 Cup red lentils (pre boiled)
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Medium onion
2 Tsp crushed garlic
1 Can diced tomatoes (320g)
3-4 Tsp tomato paste
1-2 Medium zuchini (grated)
1 Tsp basil
2 Tsp oregano
3 Cups of water
4 Tsp corn starch with a tiny bit of water

Method:

Pre boil the red lentils, wash and drain
Saute the onion
Add the crushed garlic and saute for another minute or so
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, zuchini, basil, oregano and three cups of water to the Instant Pot
Put the lid of the Instant Pot on, seal the vent, and pressure cook the lentil bolognese for ten minutes
Do a manual release on the vent once the Instant Pot is done
Put the saute function on
Make a corn starch slurry with the corn starch and a tiny bit of water. It should be thick
Add the slurry to the boiling lentil bolognese and stir quickly to thicken

This lentil bolognese recipe can be eaten with some spaghetti and a salad on the side!

The original recipe that I modified can be found below the video ¹