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Vegetarian Soy Bolognese

Sauces & basics
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Today we're preparing a rich soy bolognese, one of those staple sauces that's wonderful to have on hand to accompany all your favorite pasta dishes. Using fine textured vegetable protein (TVP) and fresh tomatoes, we get an incredible depth of flavor as it simmers gently with aromatics and spices. Let's give this classic family favorite a delicious plant-based spin!

Prep: 15 minCook: 30 minServes: 10

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients

  • 2kgs ripe tomatoes or 2L crushed canned tomatoes
  • 2 large carrots
  • 1 large onion
  • 300g fine textured soy protein (TVP)
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Spices (garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, thyme, sweet paprika)
  • Pink salt

Step by step

Method

  1. 1In a large pot, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil along with the crushed tomatoes.
  2. 2Next, add the finely diced carrots and the grated onion.
  3. 3Stir well, cover with the lid, and cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes.
  4. 4Then, add your spices and salt, stirring to incorporate everything evenly.
  5. 5Add the fine textured soy protein and stir it into the sauce until thoroughly combined.
  6. 6Simmer gently over low heat for another 15 minutes.
  7. 7Taste and adjust the salt as needed.

Extra tips

  1. 1You can sauté the grated onion right at the beginning before adding the tomatoes for an extra layer of rich flavor.
  2. 2If you blend fresh tomatoes with their skins on, you'll get a deeper color and wonderful texture in your sauce.
  3. 3You can use coarser textured soy chunks if you like, but the fine variety gives the most authentic bolognese texture.
  4. 4If you prefer not to use soy, canned brown lentils make a wonderful substitute.
  5. 5You can stir in a spoonful of natural vegetable broth paste instead of dried spices for an extra savory boost.

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