Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful twist on a classic British dish, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this hotpot features rich lentils and crispy potatoes, making it a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this vegan hotpot is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in just over an hour, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of lentils and spices creates a deliciously rich filling that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and vegetables, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, adding different vegetables or spices.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and creating the flavorful base for your hotpot.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking of the potato topping while providing an attractive serving option.
• Knife and chopping board: Essential for efficiently preparing your ingredients, helping to save time during prep.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements of ingredients for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 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 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

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C | 350 degrees F. This ensures that it’s ready when you need to bake the hotpot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Dice your onion and carrots. Add them to your skillet with the olive oil.
Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic, cooking for another 1–2 minutes before incorporating corn flour.

Step 3: Prepare the Lentil Filling

Add herbs, tomato puree, tamari sauce, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half of the vegetable stock to your pan.
Mix everything well.
Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir occasionally, adding more stock if necessary. Remove from heat once lentils are cooked.

Step 4: Slice Potatoes

While the lentil sauce simmers:
Peel and slice your potatoes very thinly (less than 0.5 cm).

Step 5: Assemble the Hotpot

Transfer the lentil sauce to a baking dish if needed.
Level with a spoon.
Arrange sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern on top.

Step 6: Season Potatoes

Drizzle potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle black pepper and thyme over them. Cover your baking dish (or skillet) with foil.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

Place in preheated oven:
Bake covered for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until potatoes are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Once baked, remove from oven and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils!

How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Below are some ideas to elevate your meal.

With a Side Salad

• Fresh Greens: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty hotpot.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the lentils and potatoes.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: This tangy bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce from the hotpot.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish.

Enjoy with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Cucumbers: Their sharpness cuts through the richness of the hotpot, adding a delightful zing.
• Pickled Onions: These add a sweet and tangy crunch that enhances every bite.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh herbs on top brightens up the dish and adds extra flavor.

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How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

To ensure your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your hotpot even more delicious.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; you may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on personal preference.
• Layer Potatoes Carefully: Arrange potato slices in overlapping layers for even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
• Cover While Baking: Keep your dish covered for part of the baking time to prevent the potatoes from drying out.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick of flavor.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Complementing your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tasty side dishes to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy lentil filling.
3. Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative, mashed cauliflower is creamy and pairs well due to its mild flavor.
4. Garlic Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars while adding depth to your meal.
5. Creamy Polenta: Soft polenta offers a comforting base that works well alongside the hearty hotpot.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies provides protein and balances the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the Lentils: If lentils are cooked for too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat once tender.
• Neglecting Seasoning: A bland dish is unappealing. Don’t skip adding herbs and spices; taste as you go to ensure robust flavors.
• Using Incorrect Potato Thickness: Thinly sliced potatoes crisp better and cook evenly. Ensure slices are uniform for the best results.
• Skipping the Foil Cover: Covering the dish while baking helps it steam and prevents drying out. Remove the foil only during the final baking phase for crispiness.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to achieve optimal texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25 minutes, removing foil for the last 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Transfer to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I use different lentils for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other varieties like green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary.

How do I make this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils gluten-free?

Simply replace tamari sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or omit it altogether while adjusting seasonings.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I prepare this hotpot in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. This delicious dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep!