Ultimate Stovetop Lentil Bolognese

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), finely chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz/400g) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine (optional, or substitute with vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)