Easy Bolognaise Recipe that everyone will eat

If you think bolognaise is only for meat lovers, think again. This vegan bolognaise recipe offers a rich, hearty sauce that satisfies cravings without any animal products. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal that everyone at the table will enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based cooking, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

A bowl of rich vegan bolognaise sauce garnished with fresh basil

What Makes This Vegan Bolognaise Special

Traditional bolognaise relies on ground meat for texture and flavor. This vegan version uses sunflower mince to mimic that satisfying bite and umami depth. The sauce simmers with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a balanced and robust flavour.

This recipe skips complex ingredients and relies on pantry staples, making it accessible for most kitchens. It's also adaptable - you can include lentils, your preferred beans, or extra vegetables like mushrooms or peppers. While my children aren't too picky about vegetables, they do have their limits, so I try to incorporate as many as possible whenever I can.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 1 tbsp Olive oil

• 1 Onion - diced

• 1 Carrot - diced or grated

• 1 Courgette - grated

• 2 cloves of garlic or tsp garlic granules

• 1 tbsp Vegetable bouillon made up with 100ml just boiled water

• 1 tsp Marmite (love it or hate it, you won't taste it)

• 1 tbsp Mixed herbs

• 400ml can chopped tomatoes

• 76g Organic Sunflower Mince

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Cooked pasta of your choice (spaghetti, celentini, or fusilli work well)

  
  

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat the pan with 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. 

2. Add onion and carrot to the pan and sauté until soft.

3. Add garlic and grated courgette, stir.

4. Add mixed mixed herbs, marmite and bouillon, stir.

5. Add can of chopped tomato and tomato puree, stir.

6. Add the sunflower mince and cook until softened (5-10m).

7. Add salt and pepper to season.

8. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over cooked pasta.

   
   

Grated courgette next to a grater

Tips for the Best Vegan Bolognaise

• Add mushrooms - any mushrooms will boost the flavour and texture of this dish.

• Add sun-dried tomatoes - adding finely chopped will give you a powerhouse of flavour.

• Measure garlic with your heart - enough said.

• Don't be afraid of Marmite - it adds umami.

• Add dark chocolate - my children love this! Just two squares of good quality dark chocolate adds a richness you can't not love.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

This vegan bolognaise pairs well with classic spaghetti or any pasta shape that holds sauce well. For a low-carb option, try it over spiralized courgette or spaghetti squash. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Add a side salad or steamed greens for a complete meal. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan can add a cheesy note without dairy.