Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is an inviting and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this hotpot provides a delightful twist on a classic British favorite. The combination of tender lentils and crispy potatoes creates a satisfying meal that your entire family will cherish. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this vegan hotpot fits the bill beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: The recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it easy to incorporate into your busy week.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich lentils and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a healthy option for meat-free meals.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a more filling experience.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The savory taste appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.
- One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot or baking dish, making it convenient for busy nights.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a seamless cooking process. Having everything organized will make preparing this easy vegan hotpot enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or Pan
- Baking Dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet)
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or Pan: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the lentil mixture before transferring to the oven.
- Baking Dish: Helps achieve that perfect golden-brown potato topping by allowing even heat distribution while baking.
Ingredients
This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together for a delicious meal:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 white onion
- 2 medium-large carrots
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 250 g dried red lentils
- 1 tbsp corn flour
- 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
- 1 vegetable stock cube + 400 ml water
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp tamari sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 large baking potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly into discs
How to Make Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees C | 350 degrees F. This ensures the oven is ready when it’s time to bake the hotpot.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Dice your onion and carrot, then add them to your skillet or pan with the olive oil.
Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Corn Flour
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet.
Cook for another minute or two until fragrant.
Stir in the corn flour to help thicken the mixture.
Step 4: Combine Lentils and Tomatoes
Add your herbs, spices, tomato puree, tamari sauce, dried lentils, chopped tomatoes, and half of the vegetable stock.
Mix everything well and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Add more stock as necessary until lentils are cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare Potatoes
While your lentil mixture simmers:
Peel and thinly slice your potatoes (less than half a cm thick).
Step 6: Assemble Hotpot
If using a baking dish:
Transfer your lentil sauce into it. Level out the surface with a spoon.
Step 7: Layer Potatoes
Arrange your sliced potatoes in an overlapping pattern over the lentil sauce.
Ensure there are no major gaps between slices.
Step 8: Season Potatoes
Drizzle olive oil over the potato layer along with some black pepper and thyme.
Cover your dish (or skillet) with foil.
Step 9: Bake Hotpot
Bake the covered dish for about 30 minutes.
After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until the potato topping is golden brown.
Step 10: Serve
Once baked, serve immediately while warm. Enjoy this comforting Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils!
How to Serve Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Serving your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some great ideas to complement this hearty dish.
Family Style
- Serve the hotpot straight from the oven in a large baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the dinner table.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair your hotpot with a crisp, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with mixed leaves, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette will add a fresh contrast to the richness of the hotpot.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty whole-grain bread or a baguette on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover lentil sauce and adds a satisfying texture to the meal.
For Individual Portions
- Divide the hotpot into ramekins before baking for individual servings. This makes for an elegant presentation and allows everyone to have their own personal dish.
With Vegan Gravy
- Drizzle some homemade or store-bought vegan gravy over each serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
To get the most out of your Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, follow these handy tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh rosemary and thyme can enhance flavors significantly compared to dried herbs.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste your lentil mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.
- Layer potatoes evenly – Ensure potato slices overlap slightly but are arranged evenly for even cooking and crispiness.
- Experiment with toppings – Consider adding vegan cheese or breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
Adding side dishes can enrich your meal options when serving Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils. Here are some delightful accompaniments to consider:
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread infused with garlic butter is a perfect match for scooping up lentil goodness.
- Steamed Veggies – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious balance to the meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A chilled quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and flavor while balancing the richness of the hotpot.
- Roasted Root Vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted until caramelized complement the dish beautifully.
- Pickled Vegetables – Serve pickled onions or gherkins on the side for a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.
- Couscous – Fluffy couscous flavored with lemon zest is an easy side that works well alongside this comforting meal.
- Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and spices create an attractive presentation alongside your hotpot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils can be straightforward, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for a delicious outcome.
- Ignoring ingredient prep: Not chopping vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to dice your onions and carrots evenly for consistent texture.
- Skipping the simmer step: Avoid rushing the cooking process. Letting the lentil mixture simmer allows flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: If you pile too many potatoes on top, they may not crisp up properly. Arrange them in a single layer to achieve that golden, crispy finish.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate the flavor profile of your hotpot.
- Not covering while baking: Failing to cover your hotpot initially can lead to dry potatoes. Covering ensures moisture retention during the first part of baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Oven: Preheat and reheat at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, about 25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils that might help you out.
What makes this an Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?
This recipe is easy due to its straightforward ingredients and simple cooking steps that yield a comforting meal without fuss.
Can I customize my Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for variety or switch up the herbs according to your taste.
How can I make my Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils spicier?
Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils stores well and makes for a perfect ready-to-eat meal throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing endless customization options. Whether you enjoy it as is or add your favorite veggies, this hearty dish will surely become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor its cozy flavors!

Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the warmth and comfort of this Easy Vegan Hotpot with Lentils, a nourishing dish that brings together tender lentils, crispy potatoes, and vibrant vegetables in a single pot. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals, this hearty hotpot is packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. With minimal prep time and easy cooking steps, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether served on its own or paired with crusty bread and a fresh salad, this vegan hotpot is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 white onion
- 2 medium-large carrots
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 250 g dried red lentils
- 1 tbsp corn flour
- 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
- 1 vegetable stock cube + 400 ml water
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp tamari sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 large baking potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly into discs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and carrots in olive oil for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook for another minute before stirring in corn flour.
- Combine lentils, chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, tomato puree, tamari sauce, herbs, and spices. Bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes while the mixture simmers.
- Transfer the lentil mixture to a baking dish if not using an oven-safe skillet. Layer sliced potatoes over the top.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season before covering with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes covered; remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until potatoes are golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (330g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 16g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg