Sicilian Hearty Lentil Ragu
This robust Sicilian Hearty Lentil Ragu is a chunky, plant-based pasta sauce bursting with rich flavors and textures. Made from tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs, this sauce offers a satisfying and meaty taste without any meat. It's an excellent way to sneak in extra vegetables, making it a hit among both adults and toddlers alike. The subtle sweetness from sugar enhances the depth of flavor, while the creamy texture pairs beautifully with any pasta. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this ragu is a wholesome choice that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive Oil
2 teaspoons (none)
Onion, chopped
1 cup (chopped)
Mushrooms, fresh, chopped
2 cups (chopped)
Zucchini
1 (chopped)
Garlic, minced
3 cloves (minced)
Dry Lentils
1 cup (none)
Water
3 cups (none)
Tomato Sauce
16 ounces (none)
Tomato Paste
6 ounces (none)
Sugar
1.5 teaspoons (none)
Water
0.5 cup (none)
Instructions
1
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and let it warm up for about a minute.
2
Add the chopped onions, mushrooms, zucchini, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
3
Stir in the dry lentils (orange lentils work well for this recipe) along with 3 cups of water. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a lively boil, stirring occasionally.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the mixture to simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the lentils are fully cooked and tender.
5
After the lentils are cooked, stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and an additional 1/2 cup of water. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.
6
Bring the sauce back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 more minutes. During this time, check the sauce occasionally to ensure it's not sticking; if it’s becoming too thick, add small amounts of water to reach your desired consistency.
7
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. This hearty ragu is best served over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sicilian Hearty Lentil Ragu?
It is a robust, chunky, plant-based pasta sauce made with lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegetarian and plant-based.
What type of lentils should I use?
Orange lentils are recommended for this recipe as they work well for the desired texture.
How long does it take to cook the lentils?
The lentils should simmer for 45 to 60 minutes until they are fully cooked and tender.
Is this recipe suitable for toddlers?
Yes, it is described as a hit with toddlers and a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.
How do I serve this ragu?
It is best served over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese.
Why is sugar added to the sauce?
A small amount of sugar is added to enhance the depth of flavor and provide a subtle sweetness.
What vegetables are in this ragu?
The recipe includes chopped onions, fresh mushrooms, zucchini, and minced garlic.
Can I adjust the consistency of the sauce?
Yes, if the sauce becomes too thick during the final simmer, you can add small amounts of water.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe requires 2 teaspoons of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe calls for 3 cloves of minced garlic.
What is the total amount of water used?
A total of 3.5 cups of water is used: 3 cups initially for the lentils and 0.5 cup later with the tomato sauce.
What size of tomato sauce and paste is required?
You will need 16 ounces of tomato sauce and 6 ounces of tomato paste.
How long is the final simmering stage?
After adding the tomato products, the sauce should simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
Does this sauce have a meaty texture?
Yes, the combination of lentils and mushrooms provides a satisfying and meaty taste without meat.
How much mushroom is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cups of fresh, chopped mushrooms.
What is the preparation for the zucchini?
One zucchini should be chopped before being added to the pot.
How many onions are used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of chopped onion.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a wholesome, healthy choice full of fiber and vegetables.
Can I use green lentils instead?
While orange lentils are suggested for their texture, other dry lentils can be used, though cooking times may vary.
What should I do if the sauce sticks to the pot?
Check the sauce occasionally and stir; if it is sticking, it may be too thick and require more water.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner.
What are the primary flavors?
The ragu features rich flavors from tomato, garlic, herbs, and the earthy taste of lentils.
Can this be served with Parmesan?
Yes, Parmesan cheese is a recommended garnish for those who enjoy it.
Is the tomato paste necessary?
Yes, tomato paste helps provide a rich thickness and concentrated tomato flavor.
How much sugar is added?
The recipe uses 1.5 teaspoons of sugar.
What heat level is used to sauté the vegetables?
The vegetables should be sautéed over medium heat.
Do I cook the lentils before adding them?
No, you add the dry lentils directly to the pot with water to cook.
Is this a traditional Sicilian recipe?
It is a Sicilian-inspired hearty ragu utilizing regional flavors like lentils and garlic.
How many dry lentils are needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of dry lentils.