Name: Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz tempeh, crumbled; 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, finely chopped; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh); 1 tsp dried oregano (or 2 tbsp fresh); Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz spaghetti (or preferred pasta)

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The moment you dive into a plate of Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce, it’s like a warm hug from an old friend. The rich aroma of simmering tomatoes mingling with the savory scent of sautéed onions and garlic fills the air, promising a delightful explosion of flavors. Each twirl of spaghetti captures the hearty texture of tempeh, creating a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with personality.

Picture this: you’re hosting a casual dinner party, and everyone’s gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating what’s bubbling away in the kitchen. With every scoop of this vibrant sauce over perfectly cooked pasta, laughter and stories flow as freely as the wine. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings, guaranteeing smiles all around.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce is easy to prepare and packed with flavor
It’s visually appealing, making your dinner table pop with color
Versatile enough for various dietary preferences, this sauce accommodates everyone at your table
Enjoy its hearty texture and rich taste that even meat lovers will adore

A memorable evening unfolded when I first served this Tempeh Bolognese to friends who claimed they didn’t enjoy plant-based meals—let’s just say they went back for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Tempeh: This fermented soy product adds great texture and protein; crumble it finely for better integration into the sauce.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for a richer flavor; crush them by hand for a rustic touch.
Onion: Use yellow onions for sweetness; sauté until translucent to enhance their natural sugars.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic warmth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Carrot: Finely chopped carrots add subtle sweetness; sauté them alongside onions for balanced flavor.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it elevates the dish with its fruity notes.
Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs provide depth; either fresh or dried works wonders in this robust sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
Spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta shape; linguine works well too if you’re feeling adventurous.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients on your kitchen counter. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and more enjoyable!

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and carrots, stirring until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes is all it takes for that sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.

Crumble the Tempeh

Add crumbled tempeh to the skillet, mixing it well with those lovely aromatics. Cook until it starts to brown slightly—it should take about seven minutes—this enhances its nutty flavor.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in those crushed canned tomatoes along with basil and oregano. Stir well and let everything simmer gently for about 15 minutes. The smell will be divine!

Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste as you continue simmering until thickened—maybe another 10 minutes should do! Give it one last stir before serving.

Cook Your Pasta

While your sauce simmers away like a cozy blanket on a winter’s night, boil salted water in another pot. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes usually does the trick!

Combine Everything

Drain your pasta but save a bit of that precious pasta water! Toss spaghetti directly into the skillet with your sauce, adding reserved water if needed to reach desired consistency. Serve hot with fresh basil sprinkled on top.

And there you have it—the ultimate Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce experience! Enjoy every bite as laughter fills the air around you!

You Must Know

Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce is rich, hearty, and a fabulous alternative to meat-based sauces
The unique texture of tempeh adds depth to the dish
Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting meal that even non-vegans will love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add crumbled tempeh. Cook until browned before adding tomatoes and spices for a flavorful sauce.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap tempeh for lentils or mushrooms if desired. Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an aromatic twist on this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce, try using homemade vegetable broth instead of water
A splash of red wine during cooking adds complexity to the flavor profile as well
Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving!

Sometimes, I serve this sauce at gatherings, and friends are shocked it’s meat-free. It’s always heartwarming when they request the recipe!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other proteins in Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce?

Yes, substitutes like lentils or mushrooms work beautifully in this recipe.

How long can I store leftover Tempeh Bolognese?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container.

What pasta pairs well with Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce?

Spaghetti is traditional, but any pasta shape you love will work just fine!