Pumpkin Lentil “Bolognese”

Add the Green Lentils (1 cup) and 3 cups of Vegetable Stock (3 cups) to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender, but not mushy. Drain any excess water.

While the lentils cook, cook the spaghetti. Bring a large pot (~ 5 quarts) of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon Salt (1 Tbsp) to the boiling water. Boil the Spaghetti (1 pckg) for about 12 minutes, until al dente (or according to package instructions for al dente). Drain in a colander and set aside.

To prepare pumpkin lentil bolognese sauce, in a large sauté pan sauté the Garlic (2 cloves) and Onion (1/2) in Olive Oil (1 Tbsp) over medium heat until soft, about 4 minutes.

Add the Crushed Tomatoes (1 can), Pumpkin Purée (1 can), Fresh Basil Leaf (1/2 cup), Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs), Ground Cinnamon (as needed), Italian Seasoning (1 Tbsp), ¼ teaspoon salt, and Ground Black Pepper (as needed). Add ½-1 cup Vegetable Stock (1 cup) to thin out sauce, as needed. Mix together until simmering, then add the cooked lentils.

Serve the pumpkin lentil bolognese over spaghetti. Enjoy!