Lentil Bolognese – Instant Pot

• Prepare time: 15 mins
• Pressure Cook Time: 20 mins
• Ready in: 45 mins
• Pressure: High
• Release Type: Natural

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup minced onion
• 1 stalk celery finely chopped
• 2 carrots finely chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped Crimini mushrooms
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
• 1/3 cup red wine
• 1 cup dried lentils rinsed
• One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• Dash red pepper flakes
• 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
• Coarse salt and black pepper
• 1 pound Gluten Free Penne cooked
• Pecorino Romano cheese grated or shaved
• Fresh basil chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Press the Sauté function key on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and season with salt and pepper. Keep the lid off and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the onions are clear and the vegetables are soft.
2. Add the mushrooms and garlic. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and have released some liquid and the garlic is fragrant. Add the tomato paste and stir to incorporate, let brown for 2-3 minutes. Add the red wine and stir, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, let evaporate.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, water, and spices to the Instant Pot, close the steam release knob and set to manual for 20 minutes. Now is a good time to cook your pasta. When the Lentil Bolognese sauce is done cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve over cooked pasta and top with grated cheese and fresh basil.