Classic Bolognese Base with Peas

In my kitchen, a good Bolognese sauce is a staple that can transform a simple meal into something lovely. This batch-cooked base is perfect for making multiple meals throughout the week!

Ingredients:

• 500g minced beef
• 1 cup frozen onions
• 1 tin (400g) green lentils, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen carrots
• 1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Optional: Italian herbs (like oregano and basil) for a touch of flavor

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the frozen onions and sauté until they're softened.
2. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is well-browned, stir in the frozen carrots and cook for a few more minutes until they start to soften.
4. Add the drained green lentils and the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together well.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper (and herbs if you're using any) and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Finally, mix in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Flavor Profile:

This Bolognese base has a mild yet comforting taste. The tomatoes add a bit of acidity and sweetness, while the lentils provide a hearty texture. The peas introduce a pleasant pop of sweetness without being intrusive—all perfect for layering flavors in future recipes!

Enjoy making your delicious Bolognese tonight, and feel free to reach out whenever you're ready to explore more dishes using this base! Happy cooking!