Homestyle “Meaty” Tomato Sauce with Lentils and Walnuts

This sauce is a universal crowd pleaser, with few ingredients (and easy to find ones at that),  you simply set it on the stove and let it simmer away until serving. Earthy and hearty this is a go-to sauce for spaghetti, as a filling for vegan lasagna, or spooned over steamed veggies. The walnuts give a significant boost of healthy fats, oils and protein, while lending a “meatiness” and flavor that is unsurpassed. This recipe makes quite a large batch, so feel free to half it or freeze some for a later date.

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 can of diced tomatoes, 28oz
• 1 can of tomato paste, 6 oz
• 3 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups green lentils
• 1 1/2 tsp brown sugar (optional)
• 1 cup crushed walnuts
• 2 Tbsp oregano (fresh or dried)
• 1 Tbsp medium-high heat oil (canola, avocado, grape seed, etc)
• 1 tsp salt
• black pepper to taste

Method