Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful twist on a classic British dish. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this comforting meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in. The combination of rich lentils and crispy potatoes makes it a satisfying option that both vegans and non-vegans will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of lentils and potatoes provides a great source of nutrition and keeps you full longer.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in seasonal veggies or your favorite herbs to customize the flavor.
- Family-Friendly: This hotpot is sure to please even picky eaters, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or pan
- Baking dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables and creating the base of your hotpot.
- Baking dish: Provides a suitable vessel for baking the hotpot evenly.
- Sharp knife: Aids in quickly chopping vegetables, ensuring even cooking.
- Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while preparing ingredients.
Ingredients
This easy vegan hotpot features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable meal.
Vegetables
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 white onion
- 2 medium-large carrots
- 2 cloves of garlic
Lentils & Sauce
- 250 g dried red lentils
- 1 tbsp corn flour
- 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
- 1 vegetable stock cube + 400 ml water
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp tamari sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp oregano
- salt and pepper
Potatoes
- 2-3 large baking potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly into discs
How to Make Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees C | 350 degrees F. This ensures it’s ready for baking when your hotpot is assembled.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Dice your onion and carrot. Add them to your skillet with the olive oil.
– Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour
Add minced garlic to the skillet.
– Cook for another 1-2 minutes before adding corn flour.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Incorporate herbs, spices, tomato puree, tamari sauce, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half the vegetable stock into the pan.
– Mix well and bring to a boil.
– Reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes, adding more stock as needed until lentils are cooked.
Step 5: Prepare Potatoes
While the lentil sauce simmers, peel and slice your potatoes very thinly (less than 0.5 cm).
Step 6: Assemble Hotpot
If using a baking dish, transfer the lentil sauce into it. Level out with a spoon.
Step 7: Arrange Potatoes
Layer sliced potatoes over the lentil sauce in slightly overlapping rows.
– Ensure there are no major gaps between potato slices.
Step 8: Season Potatoes
Drizzle potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle black pepper, and add thyme before covering with foil.
Step 9: Bake Hotpot
Bake covered for 30 minutes.
– Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until topping is golden brown.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Once done, serve your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils right away for maximum enjoyment!
How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious lentil sauce.
- Garlic Bread – Serve alongside garlic bread for an extra flavor boost that complements the hotpot.
Add a Green Salad
- Mixed Greens – A light mixed green salad adds freshness and balances the hearty flavors of the hotpot.
- Caesar Salad – For a creamier option, consider a vegan Caesar salad to add some crunch and zest.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chives or Green Onions – Adding chopped chives or green onions gives a nice oniony bite that pairs well with the lentils.
Serve with Vegan Cheese
- Vegan Parmesan – A sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese can provide a nutty flavor that enriches each bite.
- Nutritional Yeast – Use nutritional yeast as a cheesy topping for added flavor and nutrients.
How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
To make your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Choose the Right Lentils – Red lentils work best for this recipe as they cook quickly and break down nicely, creating a thick sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning – Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning while cooking; adding more herbs or spices can enhance the flavor significantly.
- Layer Potatoes Evenly – Make sure your potato slices are evenly layered to ensure consistent cooking and crispiness on top.
- Cover While Baking – Covering your dish initially helps steam the potatoes, making them tender before browning them later.
- Experiment with Veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor variations.
- Store Leftovers Properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Completing your meal with side dishes can make it even more satisfying. Here are some excellent sides that pair wonderfully with your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients; drizzle with lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts bring a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the hotpot well.
- Colcannon Potatoes – This Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and kale offers creaminess that goes hand-in-hand with the hotpot’s heartiness.
- Quinoa Salad – A cool quinoa salad tossed with veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the warm hotpot.
- Crispy Kale Chips – These crunchy snacks serve as a fun texture contrast; season them lightly for an addictive side.
- Pickled Beets – Their sweet-and-sour profile adds an interesting twist that brightens up your plate while enhancing flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté the onions and carrots can result in a less flavorful base. Always take the time to cook these ingredients first.
- Using outdated lentils: Old lentils can lead to uneven cooking and a less appealing texture. Check the expiration date before using them.
- Not adjusting seasonings: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can make your hotpot bland. Season to your preference as you go!
- Overcrowding the potatoes: Layering the potatoes too thickly may prevent them from becoming crispy. Ensure they are evenly spaced for optimal crunchiness.
- Rushing the simmering process: Cooking the lentils too quickly can result in mushy texture. Maintain a gentle simmer for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C | 350 degrees F. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils.
Can I make Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace tamari sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
What vegetables can I add to my Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?
Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I know when my lentils are cooked?
Lentils should be tender but not mushy. They usually take about 15 minutes of simmering after boiling.
Can I use different types of lentils?
While red lentils work best for this recipe due to their quick cooking time, green or brown lentils can also be used but may require longer cooking.
How spicy is this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?
This recipe is mild, but you can add chili flakes or fresh chili if you prefer some heat!
Final Thoughts
The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various tastes. With its hearty filling and crispy potato topping, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices!
Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, a delightful twist on a classic British dish. This hearty, plant-based meal is loaded with nutritious ingredients like lentils and potatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this vegan hotpot will please both plant-based eaters and omnivores alike. Quick to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s an ideal option for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 white onion
- 2 medium-large carrots
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 250 g dried red lentils
- 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
- 2–3 large baking potatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Sauté diced onion and carrots in olive oil for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and corn flour; cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Combine lentils, chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, and spices; bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Thinly slice the potatoes and layer them over the lentil mixture in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with pepper, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
