What To Know
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor.
- Top the spaghetti bolognese with a creamy béchamel sauce for a richer and more decadent dish.
- You can thicken the sauce by simmering it for longer or by adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water).
Are you craving a hearty and flavorful spaghetti bolognese but looking for a plant-based alternative? Look no further! This easy-to-follow guide will teach you how to make a delicious Quorn spaghetti bolognese that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
For the Quorn Bolognese:
- 1 package (14 ounces) Quorn mince
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Salt for cooking
Instructions
Making the Quorn Bolognese:
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Quorn mince and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor.
Cooking the Spaghetti:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (tender but still with a slight bite).
3. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
Assembling the Spaghetti Bolognese:
1. Pour the Quorn bolognese over the cooked spaghetti and stir well to combine.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), fresh basil, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect Quorn Spaghetti Bolognese:
- Use a good quality Quorn mince for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip browning the Quorn mince before adding it to the sauce. This will enhance its flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer for as long as possible to develop a rich and complex flavor.
- If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute it with extra vegetable broth or water.
- Add a touch of sugar or honey to the sauce if it’s too acidic for your taste.
- Serve the spaghetti bolognese with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Variations on the Recipe:
- Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for extra vegetables.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
- Top the spaghetti bolognese with a creamy béchamel sauce for a richer and more decadent dish.
- Make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I use a different type of plant-based mince instead of Quorn?
A: Yes, you can use any type of plant-based mince that you prefer, such as soy mince, lentil mince, or black bean mince.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure that your Quorn mince and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: You can thicken the sauce by simmering it for longer or by adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water).
Q: Can I freeze the Quorn spaghetti bolognese?
A: Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it over low heat.
Q: What other toppings can I add to the spaghetti bolognese?
A: Besides Parmesan cheese and basil, you can add toppings such as olives, capers, sundried tomatoes, or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
