Aubergine Lentil Walnut Ragu Recipes

Steps:

• Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Brush both sides of the aubergine slices with 2 tbsp of the oil, lay on baking sheets, season and bake for 15-20 mins until tender, turning once. Cook the lentils following pack instructions.
• Heat the remaining oil in a large frying pan. Tip in the onions and garlic and cook until soft. Stir though the squash and the tomatoes, plus ½ can of water. Simmer for 10-15 mins until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the lentils, basil and seasoning.
• Spoon a layer of lentils into a small baking dish. Top with aubergine slices and repeat, finishing with a layer of aubergine. Scatter with mozzarella and bake for a further 15 mins until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Steps:

• Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Put the aubergine on a large baking sheet and drizzle with the olive oil. Season well, then toss to coat. Roast for 1 hr until golden and tender. Will keep chilled for up to two days.
• Heat a glug of olive oil in a large saucepan or casserole, then tip in the onions, carrots and celery. Fry gently for 20 mins over a medium heat, stirring often.
• Add the garlic and spices, stirring for a couple of minutes. Add the tomato purée and mix well to combine. Pour in the wine and simmer for a couple of minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed. Tip in the tomatoes and 400ml water (or if using canned tomatoes, use 200ml water).
• Bring the ragu to the boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and leave to cook over a low-medium heat for 50 mins, stirring occasionally. Mix in the roasted aubergine. Can be frozen for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.