Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful and hearty dish that makes a perfect weeknight meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this vegan lentil hotpot is not only comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions, from family dinners to cozy gatherings with friends. The combination of rich lentils and crispy potato topping creates a satisfying experience that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein-rich lentils and hearty vegetables, this hotpot is both healthy and satisfying.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking for busy weeks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its comforting flavors appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike, making it great for any gathering.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• large skillet or frying pan
• baking dish or oven-safe skillet
• chopping board
• sharp knife
• measuring spoons
• stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly and allowing flavors to meld together.
• Baking Dish: Ensures even cooking of the potato topping while giving you a beautiful presentation.
• Chopping Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your veggies quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Base

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

Lentil Mixture

• 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

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 the 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 minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 1–2 minutes before adding corn flour.

Step 4: Combine Lentil Mixture

Add herbs, spices, tomato puree, tamari sauce, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half the vegetable stock to your pan. Mix well. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for another 15 minutes. Add more stock if needed until the lentils are cooked.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

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

Step 6: Transfer Mixture

If using a baking dish, transfer the lentil mixture into it. Level out the sauce with a spoon.

Step 7: Arrange Potatoes

Arrange sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern over the lentil mixture ensuring no major gaps remain.

Step 8: Season Potatoes

Drizzle potatoes with olive oil, black pepper, and thyme. Cover your dish (or skillet) with foil.

Step 9: Bake

Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 10: Serve

Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils as a comforting main dish perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can enhance the meal experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few thyme sprigs as a garnish to enhance the aroma.

Accompanying Breads

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty whole grain bread for dipping into the hotpot.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully.

Creamy Extras

• Vegan Sour Cream: Offer vegan sour cream on the side for a creamy contrast.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad balances the heartiness of the hotpot.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness to the meal.

How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Mastering your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always perfect:

• Use Quality Lentils: Opt for high-quality dried red lentils for better texture and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs enhance the depth of flavor in your hotpot.
• Slice Potatoes Thinly: Ensure that potato slices are uniform and thin for even cooking and crispiness.
• Cover While Baking: Covering with foil initially traps steam, helping potatoes cook through before browning.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad offers protein and texture contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutrient-rich green side.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges complement the soft textures of the hotpot.
5. Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita brings a refreshing element to balance the meal.
6. Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney adds an unexpected twist that pairs well with lentils.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions and carrots is essential for building flavor. Don’t rush this step; take the time to soften the vegetables for a richer taste.
• Overcooking lentils: Overcooked lentils can turn mushy. Keep an eye on them during simmering and remove from heat once they are tender but still hold their shape.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key to a flavorful hotpot. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Not layering potatoes properly: Properly layering your potato slices ensures even cooking. Avoid large gaps between slices to achieve a crispy topping throughout.
• Baking without foil: Covering the dish with foil during initial baking helps retain moisture, preventing dry spots. Remove the foil later for that golden-brown finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Allow the hotpot to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?

An Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a hearty, meat-free dish made with lentils, vegetables, and topped with crispy potatoes, offering a cozy meal option.

Can I customize my Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms, or use different herbs according to your preference for added flavor.

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

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize according to your taste preferences by adding seasonal veggies or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!