Mushroom, lentil and walnut ragù (vegan)

Method

1. Put the porcini in a large heatproof jug, pour over 1 litre just-boiled water and soak for 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and a pinch of sea salt and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the carrot, smoked paprika and button mushrooms. Turn the heat down to low and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the wine, turn up the heat to high and bring to the boil. Use a spatula to scrape up all the flavour from the bottom of the pan and stir well. Add the bay leaves, tinned tomatoes, passata, lentils, oregano and pul biber.
5. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the soaked mushrooms, roughly chop, then add to the pan. Pour in the soaking water, add a generous pinch of salt and black pepper, then bring to the boil. Turn the heat down to low and cook for 30 minutes, stirring every few minutes, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan.
6. Add the walnuts, bouillon powder and 500ml boiling water. Stir in the basil, cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently. Finally, taste, season if needed and remove the bay leaves. Serve with pasta of your choice – or see recipe below.