Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful twist on a traditional British comfort food. Packed with hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings. The combination of rich lentils and crispy potatoes creates a dish that is both filling and satisfying, making it a favorite for vegans and meat-eaters alike. Enjoy this hotpot as a main meal that your entire family will cherish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Deliciously Hearty: The combination of lentils and potatoes provides a rich, savory flavor that will warm you from the inside out.
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this dish is not only tasty but also nourishing.
- Versatile Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the hotpot to your taste.
- Family Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its comforting flavors.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Baking dish (optional)
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or frying pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables and cooking the lentil mixture evenly.
- Baking dish: If you choose to bake in one, it allows the hotpot to cook thoroughly while creating a beautiful crispy top.
- Chopping board & Knife: Necessary for safely preparing your vegetables, ensuring uniform size 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: Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice your onion and carrots.
- Add them to your skillet or pan with olive oil.
- Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Corn Flour
- Mince the garlic and add it to the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in the corn flour until well combined.
Step 4: Add Lentils and Spices
- Add your herbs, tomato puree, tamari sauce, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half of the vegetable stock.
- Mix everything together and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes, adding more stock if necessary until lentils are cooked.
Step 5: Prepare Potatoes
While the lentil mixture simmers:
Peel and slice your potatoes very thinly (less than 0.5 cm).
Step 6: Assemble the Hotpot
If using a baking dish:
Transfer the lentil mixture into it.
Level out the top with a spoon.
Step 7: Layer Potatoes
Arrange sliced potatoes over the lentil mixture in slightly overlapping rows. Ensure there are no major gaps.
Step 8: Season Potatoes
Drizzle some olive oil over the potato layer. Sprinkle with black pepper and thyme before covering with foil.
Step 9: Bake
Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Step 10: Serve
Once ready, serve immediately while hot. Enjoy this delicious vegan meal!
How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can elevate the meal experience for you and your family. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement the rich flavors of this hearty dish.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty bread makes a perfect sidekick to your hotpot. Use it to scoop up the lentil filling and enjoy the blend of textures.
Add a Side Salad
- A fresh, crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the hotpot.
Offer Vegan Gravy
- Enhance the flavor profile by serving a side of vegan gravy. This adds moisture and an extra layer of taste that pairs beautifully with both lentils and potatoes.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving can brighten up the dish. It adds color and an aromatic finish that enhances the overall presentation.
Include Pickles or Chutney
- A tangy pickle or sweet chutney can serve as a delightful contrast to the savory hotpot. This adds an exciting twist and keeps things interesting on your plate.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- For a more personal touch, serve the hotpot in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portion while keeping everything neat and tidy.
How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
To ensure your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality lentils make a huge difference in flavor and texture.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. More herbs can enhance freshness.
- Pre-soak lentils: If you have time, soaking lentils for an hour can reduce cooking time and improve texture.
- Layer potatoes evenly: Make sure your potato slices overlap slightly for even cooking and crispiness.
- Check seasoning: Before baking, taste the lentil mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
- Allow cooling time: Letting the hotpot cool slightly before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegan Hotpot can enhance your meal’s variety and enjoyment. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread smeared with garlic butter brings a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the soft hotpot.
- Steamed Greens: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide not only color but also added nutrients alongside your meal.
- Coleslaw: A crispy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy lentils.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, offer additional flavors that complement the hotpot well.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein while keeping things fresh; consider adding lemon juice for brightness.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting twist, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic or herbs.
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous is another great option that soaks up flavors wonderfully when served next to lentil dishes.
- Savory Scones: Cheese-flavored or herbed scones can add a delightful savory note that pairs well with this cozy meal.
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 a perfect dish.
- Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking lentils can lead to uneven cooking. Rinse and soak them briefly for optimal texture.
- Ignoring seasoning: A bland hotpot is disappointing. Be generous with herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can result in undercooked potatoes. Always set your oven ahead of time.
- Improper potato slicing: Thick potato slices won’t crisp up well. Aim for thin, even discs for the best topping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Store in freezer-safe containers; it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Oven: Preheat to 180 degrees C | 350 degrees F and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, but red lentils cook faster and break down into a creamy texture. Green or brown lentils will remain firmer.
How can I customize my Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
What can I serve with this hotpot?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping!
Final Thoughts
The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s versatile too; you can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spices. Try this delightful recipe today!
Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a comforting and hearty dish that takes traditional British fare to plant-based perfection. This satisfying hotpot layers rich lentils and crispy potatoes, creating a meal that warms both the body and soul. With just 10 minutes of preparation, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it not only delicious but nourishing as well. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful vegan dish as a wholesome main course that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2–3 large baking potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly into discs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Dice the onion and carrots; sauté in olive oil for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook for an additional 1–2 minutes. Stir in corn flour.
- Incorporate lentils, herbs, tomato puree, tamari sauce, chopped tomatoes, and half of the stock; bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
- Slice baking potatoes thinly while the lentil mixture cooks.
- Transfer the lentil mixture to a baking dish and layer sliced potatoes over the top.
- Drizzle olive oil on potatoes, season with pepper, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until potatoes are golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
