Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich and hearty lentil filling topped with crispy potatoes, this dish provides a wholesome meat-free alternative to traditional meals. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to make and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Prepare Potatoes
• Step 6: Assemble Hotpot
• Step 7: Arrange Potatoes
• Step 8: Season Potatoes
• Step 9: Bake
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• With Fresh Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by a Side Salad
• With Vegan Cheese
• As Leftovers
• How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of lentils?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What can I serve with my vegan hotpot?
• Can I add other vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and time in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with lentils and vegetables, this hotpot offers a healthy dose of protein and fiber.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this vegan hotpot with seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of lentils and potatoes makes this meal satisfying enough to please everyone at the dinner table.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (if needed)
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Baking dish: Helps create an even bake for your hotpot, ensuring that every bite is crispy and delicious.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you precious time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils:

• 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, to taste
• 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 that your hotpot cooks evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Dice your onion and carrot. Add them to your skillet along with the olive oil:
Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they have softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour

Once the onions are translucent, add minced garlic:
Cook for another 1 – 2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in corn flour until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next, add herbs and spices along with tomato puree, tamari sauce, red lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half of the vegetable stock:
Mix everything together thoroughly.
Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cook for about 15 minutes, adding more stock as needed. Remove from heat when lentils are tender.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

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

Step 6: Assemble Hotpot

If using a baking dish:
Transfer the lentil sauce into it.
Level out the sauce evenly with a spoon.

Step 7: Arrange Potatoes

Arrange your potato slices in an overlapping pattern over the lentil mixture:
Ensure there are no major gaps between slices.

Step 8: Season Potatoes

Drizzle sliced potatoes lightly with olive oil:
Sprinkle black pepper and thyme on top before covering with foil.

Step 9: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
Bake covered for about 30 minutes.
Remove foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until potato topping is golden brown.

Step 10: Serve

Remove from oven once done:
Serve immediately while warm for optimal flavor!

How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit any occasion. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Here are some great ways to serve it.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair your hotpot with crusty bread to soak up the rich lentil sauce. A warm baguette or sourdough works wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your hotpot with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and added flavor.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad to add freshness and crunch. A simple mix of greens, cucumber, and tomatoes is ideal.

With Vegan Cheese

• Sprinkle some vegan cheese on top before serving for an extra creamy texture that complements the hotpot beautifully.

As Leftovers

• This dish makes great leftovers! Reheat in the oven or microwave and enjoy it the next day for a quick meal.

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How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Perfecting your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils ensures you get the best flavors and textures every time. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables when possible. They provide better flavor and nutrition than canned or frozen options.

• Adjust Seasonings: Tweak the herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to add more garlic or herbs if desired.

• Layer Potatoes Evenly: Make sure the potato slices are evenly layered over the lentil mixture for consistent cooking and a crispy top.

• Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your oven. Check for doneness by ensuring potatoes are golden brown.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding breadcrumbs or nutritional yeast on top before baking for an extra crunch.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep them fresh for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

Complementing your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can elevate the meal further. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans in garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the soft hotpot.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts add nutty flavors that pair well with lentils.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that complements this hearty dish beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the hotpot.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli keeps things healthy while adding vibrant color to your plate.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors of the hotpot.
7. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips offer a crunchy texture as a fun snack alongside your meal.
8. Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers additional protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté your onion and carrots can lead to a lack of flavor. Always start by softening these vegetables to build a rich base for your hotpot.
• Not checking lentils for doneness: Overcooking or undercooking lentils can ruin the texture. Taste them during cooking to ensure they are tender but not mushy.
• Ignoring the potato layer: If you don’t overlap the potato slices, some may cook unevenly. Arrange them closely to ensure all pieces get crispy and golden.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: The flavor of your hotpot depends on good ingredients. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for a more robust taste.
• Forgetting to season adequately: Not seasoning enough can result in blandness. Taste your sauce before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Neglecting leftovers storage: Improper storage can affect freshness. Ensure you store your hotpot in airtight containers to keep it safe and delicious.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils:

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, while red lentils are recommended for their quick cooking time, you can substitute with green or brown lentils. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils gluten-free, simply replace tamari with coconut aminos or omit it altogether.

What can I serve with my vegan hotpot?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for added freshness.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only comforting but versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a delightful weeknight meal that everyone will adore. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!