Easy peasy: how to make quorn spaghetti bolognese in 30 minutes
What To Know
- This hearty and flavorful dish combines the goodness of Quorn mince with a rich and aromatic tomato sauce, creating a vegan and vegetarian-friendly alternative to traditional bolognese.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to develop the flavors.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or a teaspoon of harissa paste to the sauce for a touch of heat.
Indulge in a delectable plant-based culinary experience with our comprehensive guide on how to make Quorn spaghetti bolognese. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the goodness of Quorn mince with a rich and aromatic tomato sauce, creating a vegan and vegetarian-friendly alternative to traditional bolognese.
Gathering the Ingredients
Embark on this culinary adventure by assembling the following ingredients:
- 1 pack (500g) Quorn mince
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup tomato purée
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by heating some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and fry until softened. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and continue frying for a few minutes more.
2. Brown the Quorn Mince: Add the Quorn mince to the pan and cook until browned. Break it up into small pieces using a wooden spoon.
3. Deglaze the Pan (Optional): For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with red wine by pouring it into the pan and letting it bubble away.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Stock: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, tomato purée, oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to develop the flavors.
6. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
7. Combine the Sauce and Spaghetti: Drain the spaghetti and add it to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quorn spaghetti bolognese piping hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if not vegan) or a drizzle of olive oil. Accompany with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Variations
- Spicy Bolognese: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a teaspoon of harissa paste to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Mushroom Bolognese: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthy flavor.
- Lentil Bolognese: Substitute lentils for Quorn mince for a protein-packed and budget-friendly option.
Tips
- Use a good quality vegetable stock for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the Quorn mince, as it can become tough.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for as long as possible to develop its full potential.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more vegetable stock.
Nutritional Information
Quorn spaghetti bolognese is a nutritious and filling dish. One serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
Wrapping Up: A Plant-Based Culinary Delight
With this comprehensive guide, you can now confidently create a delicious and satisfying Quorn spaghetti bolognese. This plant-based alternative to traditional bolognese is packed with flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Enjoy it as a comforting family meal or impress your dinner guests with its culinary excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other plant-based mince alternatives?
A: Yes, you can use mince made from lentils, soy, or tofu in place of Quorn mince.
Q: Is Quorn spaghetti bolognese suitable for vegans?
A: Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you omit the Parmesan cheese.
Q: How can I store leftover spaghetti bolognese?
A: Store the leftover spaghetti bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.