Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with nutritious lentils and topped with crispy potatoes, this dish is not only hearty but also simple to prepare. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this vegan hotpot will surely impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under two hours.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of lentils and potatoes creates a filling dish that will satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this meal supports a healthy lifestyle while being entirely plant-based.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks, this hotpot adapts to various dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, it’s an economical choice without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your cooking adventure, having the right tools can make the process smoother. Gather these essential items to prepare your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or Pan
• Baking Dish (if not using a skillet)
• Knife
• Chopping Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or Pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the lentil filling, ensuring rich flavor development.
• Baking Dish: If you prefer baking separately from the stovetop, a baking dish helps in achieving that golden-brown potato topping.

Ingredients

For the 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 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. This ensures it’s ready for baking your hotpot once assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Dice your onion and carrots. Add them to your skillet or pan along with the olive oil. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour

Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle in corn flour, stirring well to combine.

Step 4: Mix in Lentils and Tomatoes

Add your herbs, spices, tomato puree, tamari sauce, dried red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half of the vegetable stock. Stir everything together until well mixed. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, adding more stock if necessary until lentils are tender.

Step 5: Slice Potatoes

While the lentil sauce simmers, peel and slice your potatoes very thinly (around >0.5 cm).

Step 6: Assemble Your Hotpot

Transfer the lentil filling into a baking dish (if using) or keep it in your skillet. Level out the filling evenly using a spoon.

Step 7: Layer Potatoes on Top

Arrange your sliced potatoes in slightly overlapping layers over the lentil mix, ensuring there are no large gaps between slices.

Step 8: Season Potatoes

Drizzle your arranged potatoes with olive oil. Sprinkle black pepper and thyme on top before covering your dish (or skillet) tightly with foil.

Step 9: Bake Your Hotpot

Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until the potato topping turns golden brown and crispy.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

Once baked to perfection, serve your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils immediately while still warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can enhance the dining experience for everyone at the table. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complement this hearty dish perfectly.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich lentil sauce.
• Garlic Bread – Add a flavorful twist with garlic bread, enhancing the meal’s savory notes.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Thyme Sprigs – Use fresh thyme sprigs to elevate the aroma and add a touch of elegance.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the hotpot.
• Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tang, making it a great contrast to the hotpot’s texture.

Served with Pickles

• Cornichons – These tiny pickles provide a zesty kick that pairs well with the savory flavors of the dish.
• Pickled Red Onions – Their sweetness and acidity complement the meal beautifully.

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How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

To make your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Lentils – Using high-quality dried red lentils enhances flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak herbs and spices based on personal preference or what you have on hand.
• Layer Potatoes Evenly – Ensure an even layer of potatoes for consistent cooking and crispy texture throughout.
• Use Different Vegetables – Experiment with adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and taste.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the hotpot to rest for a few minutes after baking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Freeze Leftovers – This dish freezes well! Store leftovers in individual portions for easy future meals.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Vegan Hotpot can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and a vibrant color that contrasts nicely with the hotpot.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes roasted until golden provide sweetness and depth.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad can offer protein while keeping your meal light and nutritious.
4. Mashed Cauliflower – Creamy mashed cauliflower is a lower-carb alternative that complements the hotpot’s richness.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of lentils.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and distinct flavor, making them an exciting side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Ignoring the cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the lentils can result in a mushy texture. Keep an eye on the simmering time and adjust as needed.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices can make your hotpot bland. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings for a richer flavor.
• Using unevenly sliced potatoes: Thick potato slices may not cook evenly. Aim for uniform discs to ensure they crisp up nicely on top of your hotpot.
• Neglecting to cover while baking: Failing to cover the dish at first can lead to dry potatoes. Use foil in the beginning to keep moisture in, then uncover for crispiness.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Serving immediately after baking can cause the hotpot to be too hot and difficult to serve. Let it sit for a few minutes to settle.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months.
• Portion it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake covered for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils.

Can I use other types of lentils?

You can use green or brown lentils, but red lentils provide a creamier texture that works well in this recipe.

How do I make this hotpot gluten-free?

Simply substitute tamari sauce with coconut aminos or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition!

How can I customize the flavor?

Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.

Is this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. This hearty dish will surely become a family favorite; give it a try!