Vegan Classic Minced Meat Sauce

Transform your dinner routine with this hearty and flavor-packed Vegan Classic Minced Meat Sauce, a plant-based twist on a timeless favorite. This recipe combines tender lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of Italian herbs simmered in a rich tomato base for a sauce that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. Perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or even spiralized vegetables, this sauce is ready in just under an hour, making it a practical yet satisfying weeknight meal. Key ingredients like soy sauce and tomato paste elevate the umami while fresh parsley adds a vibrant finishing touch. High in protein, vegan-friendly, and simple to prepare, this classic meat-free recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until the onion is translucent and vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.

Step 5

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then add the tomato paste and soy sauce.

Step 6

Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and thyme, and add the bay leaf. Stir everything together.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 9

Remove and discard the bay leaf. Serve the sauce hot over your choice of pasta or grains, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1843.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1012.8

Total Fat 35.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4596.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 147.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 42.7g	0%
Total Sugars 57.3g
Protein 44.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 459.5mg	0%
Iron 19.0mg	0%
Potassium 5366.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.3%

Protein: 16.2%

Carbs: 54.5%