This recipe utilizes “the blend,” a technique where ground meat is replaced with a 50-50 mixture of ground meat and finely diced mushrooms. The mushrooms add the savory “umami” taste that meat is known for, while helping reduce saturated fat and calories, and increase the proportion of vegetables in the meal. These rich flavors pair especially well with whole wheat pasta.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces ground lamb
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup dry red wine
1 (28-ounce) can tomato puree, no salt added
12 ounces whole wheat pasta (any shape)
An Oldways recipe, courtesy of Kelly Toups