Mary Berry Bolognese with Lentils Recipe

Mary Berry Bolognese with Lentils is a wholesome, comforting twist on the classic Italian sauce. Slow-simmered with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and protein-rich lentils, this dish is hearty, nutritious, and full of rich, layered flavour. Serve it over your favourite pasta for the perfect family dinner.

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What Is Mary Berry Bolognese with Lentils?

This recipe offers a lighter, healthier version of traditional bolognese by replacing or complementing meat with red lentils. Lentils thicken the sauce naturally, add plant-based protein, and deliver a lovely soft texture while absorbing the flavour of herbs and tomatoes. It’s ideal for vegetarians, flexitarians, or anyone wanting a more nutritious pasta night.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious & hearty – Lentils add fiber and protein without making the dish heavy.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Versatile – Make it vegetarian or add a little meat for extra richness.
• Comforting & flavourful – Slow-simmered for a deep, rich taste.
• Family-friendly – Loved by adults and kids alike.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Base

• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Optional (non-vegetarian version)

• 250g ground beef or turkey

Sauce

• 200g red lentils, rinsed
• 400g crushed tomatoes (1 can)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 500ml vegetable stock
• 100ml red wine (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• A few sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (optional, for richness)
• Handful fresh basil, chopped

To Serve

• Cooked pasta (tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)

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How to Make Mary Berry Bolognese with Lentils

1. Sauté the vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook 8–10 minutes until softened.

2. Add garlic (and optional meat)

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
If using meat, add it now and brown while breaking it up.

3. Add tomato paste & wine

Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly.
Pour in red wine (if using) and let it reduce for 2–3 minutes.

4. Add lentils & tomatoes

Add the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable stock, bay leaf, and thyme.

5. Simmer

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat.
Simmer uncovered 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

6. Finish the sauce

Remove thyme stems and bay leaf.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add cream or milk for extra richness.
Stir in fresh basil.

7. Serve

Toss with freshly cooked pasta.
Top with Parmesan and extra basil.

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What Goes Well With This Dish?

• Garlic bread
• Simple green salad with lemon dressing
• Roasted vegetables
• A glass of red wine

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Expert Tips

• Rinse lentils well to prevent gumminess.
• Add extra stock if the sauce thickens too quickly.
• Let the sauce simmer slowly for maximum flavour.
• Add mushrooms for more umami in a vegetarian version.
• Stir in mascarpone for an extra creamy finish.

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Easy Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat completely.
• Meaty version: Use half meat, half lentils.
• Spicy: Add red chilli flakes.
• Creamy: Stir in mascarpone or extra cream.
• Herby: Add rosemary or oregano.

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Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight.
• Note: Store pasta and sauce separately to avoid sogginess.

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Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Warm gently with a splash of stock or water.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring between bursts.

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FAQs

Can I make this bolognese fully vegetarian?

Yes. Simply omit the meat. The lentils provide enough texture and protein to keep the sauce hearty and satisfying.

Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?

Yes, but they keep their shape more and won’t thicken the sauce as much. Red lentils create a creamier, richer texture.

Does this sauce freeze well?

Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

How do I stop lentils from turning mushy?

Rinse them well and simmer over low heat. Avoid excessive stirring and add liquid gradually as needed.

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Other Similar Recipes

• Mary Berry Pea and Pesto Spaghetti
• Mary Berry Pasta Sauce Recipe
• Mary Berry Spaghetti Bolognese

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