Red Lentil "Ragu" - Easy Vegan Pasta Sauce Under $5

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: brown lentils

Green lentils add more fiber while brown lentils are often less expensive.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free, while pecorino can be more affordable.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: white wine

Grape juice provides sweetness without alcohol; white wine is often less costly.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point; canola oil is typically cheaper.

Rinse and drain 1 cup dry red lentils.

Toast 1/2 cup walnuts at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 6-8 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, then grind into a fine meal.

Chop 1/2 red onion (or shallot) and mince 3 cloves garlic.

In a large saute pan, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil (or a bit of broth) and sauté the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.

Add 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 chopped chipotle peppers, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; cook for 1-2 minutes.

Add 3 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup dry split red lentils, and the 1/2 cup ground walnuts; bring to a simmer and simmer for 15 minutes with the lid off.

After 15 minutes, add 440 milliliters marinara sauce and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes until heated through and desired consistency is reached.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary