Vegan Bolognese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Hearty – The tempeh creates a satisfying, meaty texture.
• Full of Flavor – A blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and Marmite enhances the depth of the sauce.
• Plant-Based & Nutritious – High in protein and fiber with wholesome ingredients.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Great for Everyone – A dish that vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores will all enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sauce:

• 7 oz tempeh
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ red hot pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon Marmite
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• Vegan parmesan
• Fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Crumble the Tempeh: Using your fingers or a food processor, break tempeh into small, ground meat-like crumbles.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Tempeh: Add crumbled tempeh and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in garlic and red pepper, cooking for 1 minute. Then add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, thyme, and Marmite.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
7. Assemble & Serve: Serve the sauce over hot spaghetti, garnished with vegan parmesan and fresh basil.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and replace Marmite with tamari for umami flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
• Different Protein: Swap tempeh for lentils, walnuts, or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper or add chili flakes for extra heat.
• Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of coconut cream or cashew cream for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra marinara if needed. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: The sauce freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?

Yes! Crumbled firm tofu works as a great substitute, but may need extra seasoning.

2. What can I use instead of Marmite?

Tamari, soy sauce, or miso paste can provide a similar umami depth.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of marinara sauce?

Yes! Use 2 cups of fresh diced tomatoes and cook longer to develop flavor.

4. How do I make this oil-free?

Sauté onions in vegetable broth instead of oil.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Omit the red pepper for a milder version that kids will love.

6. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes! A splash of red wine enhances the depth of flavor—add it when sautéing the tempeh.

7. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Spaghetti is classic, but penne, fusilli, or whole wheat pasta work well too.

8. How do I make this more protein-packed?

Add extra tempeh or mix in cooked lentils for an even heartier sauce.

9. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

10. What can I serve with vegan Bolognese?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

This vegan Bolognese is a satisfying, plant-based take on a classic Italian favorite. With rich flavors, a hearty texture, and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a meatless dinner option, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort. Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!