As autumn sets in and the days become cooler, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, hearty meal that embodies the spirit of the season. If you’re searching for the perfect fall comfort food, look no further than this Hearty Lentil Ragout with Spaghetti. This dish, inspired by a classic French lentil ragout, is the ultimate plant-based dinner that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Why This Lentil Ragout is Your New Go-To Fall Dish
- Nourishing Ingredients: Lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty. The rich, earthy flavor of the lentils pairs beautifully with thin spaghetti, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for cool autumn evenings.
- Quick & Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this lentil ragout comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for busy fall days.
- Versatile & Vegan: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Plus, it’s easily adaptable – switch out the pasta or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this hearty lentil ragout, gather the following ingredients:
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, robust flavor to the base of your ragout.
- Onion & Carrot: These classic aromatics form the flavor foundation of the dish, adding sweetness and depth.
- Tomato Paste: This thick, concentrated paste intensifies the sauce, giving it a deep, savory flavor.
- French Lentils (Puy Lentils): Known for their firm texture and rich taste, French lentils are perfect for this dish.
- Vegetable Stock: Cooking the lentils in vegetable stock adds extra flavor and keeps the dish vegan.
- Spices & Herbs: A bay leaf and fresh thyme provide the traditional French seasoning that elevates this dish.
- Spaghetti: Thin spaghetti is the ideal accompaniment, soaking up the sauce and adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Parsley & Vegan Parmesan (optional): Fresh parsley adds a bright finish, while vegan Parmesan provides a savory kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and carrot, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 7-8 minutes.
- Build the Ragout:
- Stir in 1/4 cup of tomato paste and a sprig of thyme, cooking for an additional 3 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Cook the Lentils:
- Add 1 cup of French lentils, 1 bay leaf, 3 cups of vegetable stock, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Combine & Serve:
- Mix the cooked lentils with 2 cups of cooked thin spaghetti, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the rich, flavorful ragout. Serve hot, garnished with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley and a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Lentil Ragout
- Use French Lentils: For the best texture and flavor, opt for French lentils (Puy lentils). They hold their shape better than other types of lentils and have a wonderfully nutty taste.
- Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh thyme and a bay leaf are essential for achieving that classic French flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, they’re even better!
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables or switch up the pasta. This recipe is versatile, so get creative with it.
Servings: 4 servings
Cost: $3
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 thyme sprig
- 1 cup French lentils (Puy lentils)
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp fresh vegan Parmesan (optional)
- 2 cups cooked thin spaghetti
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and carrot until softened (7-8 minutes).
- Stir in tomato paste and thyme, cooking for 3 minutes. Add lentils, bay leaf, vegetable stock, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until lentils are tender.
- Mix with cooked thin spaghetti. Serve topped with fresh parsley and vegan Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Tip: Lentils not only add rich flavor but also provide essential nutrients! This dish is perfect for those chilly fall nights when you want something warm and filling.
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