Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful twist on a classic British dish, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe showcases the rich flavors of lentils and the satisfying crunch of crispy potatoes. The combination of wholesome ingredients makes it not just delicious but also nutritious, ensuring everyone at your table will love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this hearty meal effortlessly.
  • Flavorful and Satisfying: Packed with spices and lentils, this hotpot is bursting with flavor that will please even non-vegans.
  • Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion—serve it on a chilly night or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
  • Health-Conscious Choice: Full of plant-based protein and fiber, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the crispy potato topping, making it an easy way to introduce more veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet or pan
  • Baking dish (if needed)
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet or pan: This is essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the lentil sauce to perfection.
  • Baking dish: If you prefer a traditional baked hotpot style, this helps create an even layer of crispy potatoes on top.
  • Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Filling

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 white onion
  • 2 medium-large carrots
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 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

For the Potato Topping

  • 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.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Dice your onion and carrot. Add them to your skillet or pan with the olive oil. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour

Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Then add the corn flour.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add your herbs and spices, including tomato puree, tamari, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half the stock to your pan. Mix everything together and bring it to a boil. Immediately reduce heat to a simmer for about 15 minutes, adding more stock as necessary. Remove from heat when lentils are cooked.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

While the lentil sauce simmers, peel and slice your potatoes very thinly (more than 0.5 cm).

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Transfer the lentil sauce to a baking dish if using one. Level out the sauce with a spoon.

Step 7: Layer Potatoes

Arrange your sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern over the lentil sauce without leaving major gaps.

Step 8: Season Potatoes

Drizzle potatoes with a little olive oil, black pepper, and thyme before covering your dish (or skillet) with foil.

Step 9: Bake

Bake covered for 30 minutes. After that, remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until potato topping is golden and crispy.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately while hot for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can elevate the meal experience. This dish is not only hearty but also flexible in its presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful hotpot.

For a Cozy Family Dinner

  • Serve directly from the baking dish for a homely feel.
  • Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

With a Fresh Side Salad

  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
  • Include ingredients like cucumber and cherry tomatoes for extra crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Garnish each serving with chopped parsley or cilantro.
  • This adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors.

Accompanied by Vegan Gravy

  • Drizzle warm vegan gravy over the hotpot for added richness.
  • This is perfect for those who enjoy a saucier dish.

With Pickles or Chutney

  • Serve alongside tangy pickles or chutney for an exciting flavor contrast.
  • This can enhance the overall taste experience.
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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 you achieve the best flavor and texture possible.

  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs, like rosemary and thyme, can elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried ones.
  • Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick.
  • Layer potatoes wisely: Overlapping the potato slices ensures even cooking and crispiness on top.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before baking.
  • Be patient while baking: Allowing enough time for the potatoes to crisp up is key to a perfect topping.
  • Let it rest: Allow the hotpot to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps settle the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can enhance the meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty main dish.

  1. Garlic Bread
    A crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up lentil sauce and adds a savory touch.

  2. Roasted Vegetables
    Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and vibrant colors on your plate.

  3. Coleslaw
    A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast and vibrant flavors against the hotpot’s richness.

  4. Steamed Green Beans
    Lightly steamed green beans add brightness and are easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

  5. Couscous Salad
    A light couscous salad mixed with lemon juice and herbs makes for an excellent side filled with texture.

  6. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
    Creamy mashed sweet potatoes bring sweetness that pairs well with savory lentils.

  7. Quinoa Pilaf
    Quinoa pilaf provides added protein and a nutty flavor that complements the hotpot beautifully.

  8. Simple Fruit Salad
    A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this hearty meal, making it an ideal finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

  • Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté your onions and carrots can result in a bland flavor. Always sauté until softened for a richer taste.
  • Not measuring lentils correctly: Using too many lentils can make your hotpot dry. Stick to the recipe’s measurement for perfect consistency.
  • Overcooking potatoes: If you slice the potatoes too thickly, they may not cook through properly. Aim for thin slices to ensure they become crispy.
  • Ignoring seasoning: Missing out on adding enough salt and pepper can lead to a flavorless dish. Taste and adjust as needed before baking.
  • Using old spices: Old or expired herbs can lose their flavor. Make sure your spices are fresh for maximum taste.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot all the way through.
  • Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils that might help you.

Can I customize the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace tamari sauce with gluten-free soy sauce, and check that your vegetable stock is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?

This hotpot pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?

The prep time is about 10 minutes, followed by cooking time of approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this warm, hearty dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils


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  • Author: Meg
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Discover the warmth and comfort of this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils—a delightful, plant-based twist on a classic British dish. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this hearty meal combines rich lentils with crispy potato topping for a satisfying experience. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a nutritious dish that’s full of flavor and loved by both vegans and non-vegans alike. This hotpot is not only delicious but also health-conscious, packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 23 large baking potatoes (sliced thinly)
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Sauté diced onion and carrots in olive oil for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and corn flour; cook for another minute.
  4. Mix in lentils, tomatoes, stock, herbs, and spices; bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Thinly slice potatoes while the lentil mixture simmers.
  6. Transfer lentil sauce to a baking dish; layer potatoes on top, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 16g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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