Amazing Mushroom Bolognese

Mushroom Bolognese is a flavorful vegetarian twist on the classic Italian Bolognese sauce. It features a rich and hearty sauce made with mushrooms, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Here's a recipe for amazing mushroom Bolognese:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces (225 grams) mushrooms (such as cremini or button), sliced
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (optional), for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped carrot, and chopped celery to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
5. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and dried thyme. Cook for another minute to let the herbs release their flavors.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth or water to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
9. Serve the mushroom Bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, if desired.

Mushroom Bolognese pairs well with a side salad and some crusty bread. It's a satisfying and comforting vegetarian alternative to the traditional meat-based Bolognese sauce. Enjoy this amazing mushroom Bolognese as a delicious and hearty meal!