Lentil and Mushroom Ragu

Looking for a satisfying, flavorful meatless meal? You have to try Tasteful Kitchen’s Lentil and Mushroom Ragu. Served over a sweet potato mash, it’s packed with nutrients and boasts a dynamic, umami flavor profile that is sure to satisfy.

What is Ragu Sauce?

Ragu is a traditional Italian sauce that typically consists of minced or ground meat, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and various herbs. The sauce is simmered for a long time to allow the flavors to develop and meld together. Ragu is most often served over pasta, but we did things a little differently. Read on.

What Sets Our Ragu Apart

Being vegan, our ragu is a little different than the traditional. We replaced the meat with mushrooms and lentils. Instead of tomatoes, we simmered it all in creamed coconut because, hey, why not? The hearty stew is served over mashed sweet potatoes and topped with a rustic pesto of kale and pecans.

Sure, we’re leaving out the meat, but we’re sacrificing none of the flavor. Plus, between the lentils, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes, you’re getting plenty of protein and nutrients. It’s the perfect vegan meal and a great option for those of you who are new to the vegan lifestyle and missing meat. You’ll hardly know it’s gone!

What’s in Lentil and Mushroom Ragu?

Let’s talk about what goes into this glorious, stew-like sauce served over smooth, savory mashed sweet potatoes. Tasteful Kitchen’s vegan mushroom and lentil ragù is loaded with nutrient-packed ingredients and plenty of flavor. Here are some of the star players:

Lentils

Earthy with subtle nutty undertones, lentils are a great source of plant-based protein. On top of that, they are chock-full of fiber, which is great for digestion, as well as energy-boosting, anemia-fighting iron.

Mushrooms

Low-calorie, low-fat mushrooms are loaded with antioxidants that help protect your cells and reduce disease risk. They also contain a hearty dose of vitamin B, which can boost your energy levels and promote a healthy nervous system. The mushrooms have an umami, almost meaty flavor that is sure to satisfy.

Coconut Cream

Rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, coconut cream contains essential vitamins (B, C, and E) and minerals (iron, selenium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus). All are important for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Creamed coconut is also thought to have some anti-inflammatory properties.

Kale

Loaded with essential vitamins (A, C, and K), minerals (calcium and manganese), and plenty of antioxidants, kale truly is a superfood. Plus, it’s a great source of fiber and potassium which promote heart health as well as healthy digestion. We used the kale to make a unique, rustic pesto along with the pecans.

Garlic

Aromatic, almost spicy garlic is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also a great source of antioxidants and promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, so it’s great for digestion.

Pecans

Rich, buttery, slightly sweet pecans are chock-full of monounsaturated fats, making them great for heart health. They also offer antioxidant properties and are rich in vitamins E and B. Did we mention that they are also high in fiber and are thought to support healthy brain function?

Sweet Potatoes

Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals and high in fiber and potassium, sweet potatoes are a good veg to have in your diet. They promote healthy digestion and heart health and have plenty of antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. Our sweet and savory sweet potato mash is an ideal base for the rich, flavorful mushroom and lentil ragu.

Serving Suggestions

This ragu is a meal in and of itself. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t love the company of a flavorful side dish or two, though. Serve it with a hunk of crusty bread to soak up the sauce and/or a light, bright side salad. 

So anyway…

All in all, this vegan lentil and mushroom ragu is a nutritious and flavorful dish that caters to both vegans and non-vegans alike. The star ingredients, lentils and mushrooms, offer a wealth of health benefits, including plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

Whether you follow a vegan diet or simply enjoy exploring plant-based options, this dish is a delicious and wholesome choice that will nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Add it to your next order from Tasteful Kitchen. We promise you won’t regret it. 

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• How to Maintain a Balanced Vegan Diet
• Top 10 Nutrient-Rich Vegan Superfoods
• Why Veganism Matters