Ultimate Comfort: Delicious Tomato-Free Bolognese for Allergies

As I wrote about yesterday, I'm currently trying to avoid tomatoes and undertake a low-salicylate Paleo diet. I usually use a lot of tomatoes in my cooking, as they are a great base for sauces and meals. My favourite dishes, ragu, bolognese and chilli all use lots of tomatoes, so I've been experimenting to find an alternative.

Since tomatoes are a nightshade, this recipe will be helpful to those avoiding nightshades too. I've also just realized that tomatoes have quadrupled in price in the last few months – so this is also good for the budget!

I used carrots and beetroot to make the “tomato” sauce, which I then used exactly as I would a real tomato sauce with the rest of the ingredients in this bolognese. I'm not that keen on beetroot on it’s own but in this dish with all of the other flavours, it was a great addition.

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5 from 22 votes

Tomato-Free Bolognese Recipe

If you avoid salicylates or don't tolerate tomatoes well, this tomato-free bolognese recipe will meet your needs for a tomato-based sauce without the tomatoes! Made with carrots and beetroot, it tastes great and looks very tomatoey, perfect for those avoiding nightshades and looking for a budget-friendly alternative.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian, Paleo

Keyword: bolognese, budget friendly, low-salicylate, nightshade-free, paleo, tomato-free

Servings: 6

Calories: 250kcal

Cost: 15

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Blender
• Saute Pan

Ingredients

• Carrots I used about 9
• Beetroot I used 4
• Leek diced
• 3 diced onions
• Parsnip
• 7 mushrooms sliced
• Pork mince 500g
• Beef mince 500g
• Coconut oil
• Coconut aminos
• Garlic powder
• Oregano
• Cinnamon
• Cayenne pepper
• Ground chilli
• Salt & Pepper

Instructions

• I peeled and roughly chopped the carrots, beetroot & parsnip and added them to a large pan of boiling water
• Meanwhile, in another pan I sautéed the onions in some coconut oil until they turned translucent
• Next, I added the mince and a splash of coconut aminos
• Once the meat had all browned, I added the leek, mushrooms and a small amount of each of the herbs and spices (I don’t use very much, but adjust according to how hot you like it – and how little you like beetroot!)
• I allowed the meat mixture to simmer on a low heat, stirring regularly, and adding water from the carrot & beetroot pan as it dried out
• Once the carrots and beetroot's started to soften, I turned the heat off and puréed in the blender
• With the tomato-free “tomato sauce” ready, I added it to the meat pan and allowed it to simmer for a few minutes before serving

If you have any suggestions for alternatives to tomatoes, please share in the comments below…

Why Go Tomato-Free?

Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, but they’re also high in salicylates, which can cause adverse reactions in some people. For those with sensitivities or on an elimination diet, even a small amount of tomato can trigger digestive issues, headaches, or inflammation. Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines are also often problematic for individuals with autoimmune conditions or chronic joint pain. By removing tomatoes, you may notice improvements in your skin, energy levels, and overall digestion.

Creating a Rich, Flavourful Sauce Without Tomatoes

The key to replacing tomatoes in a dish like bolognese lies in replicating their depth of flavour, acidity, and colour. Carrots add natural sweetness, while beetroot lends a similar hue to tomato sauce and a slightly earthy complexity. When paired with ingredients like garlic, herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar (if tolerated), you can achieve a hearty sauce that hits all the right notes without any tomatoes involved.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato-Free Bolognese

• Cook your base vegetables slowly – sweating the onion, carrot, and celery gently will create a rich foundation for the sauce.
• Choose your beetroot wisely – roasted beetroot adds depth and removes some of the earthy flavour that can be overwhelming when raw.
• Simmer low and slow – just like a traditional bolognese, this sauce improves with time. Letting it simmer allows the flavours to marry beautifully.
• Add broth – using a good-quality beef or bone broth adds umami richness that helps mimic the savoury depth tomatoes usually provide.

Serving Suggestions

This bolognese is incredibly versatile. Serve it over:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a classic Paleo twist
• Mashed sweet potato or parsnip for a comforting, hearty base
• Spaghetti squash if in season
• Cauliflower rice for a lighter option

It also works wonderfully spooned into halved roasted capsicum or even in a lettuce wrap for a fresh summer alternative.

Batch Cooking and Storage

This tomato-free bolognese freezes and reheats exceptionally well, making it a great option for batch cooking. Simply double the recipe and freeze portions in airtight containers for quick weeknight meals. It’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer and about 4 days in the fridge.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, feel free to experiment:

• Swap the beef for lamb, turkey, or pork for a different flavour profile.
• Add chopped mushrooms for extra umami and texture.
• Include spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an added boost of greens.
• Top with nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan for a savoury finish.

A Family Favourite Without the Fuss

One of the best things about this tomato-free bolognese is how well it’s received, even by those who normally love their tomato-based meals. It’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and packed with hidden veggies, which is always a win. You can confidently serve it to guests, knowing it caters to a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on flavour.

Tomato-Free Doesn’t Mean Taste-Free

It’s easy to feel like you’re missing out when avoiding common ingredients like tomatoes, especially in dishes as iconic as bolognese. But with a bit of creativity and a willingness to explore, you’ll find there are many ways to achieve similar flavours and textures. The combination of carrots and beetroot in this recipe adds colour, body, and a touch of natural sweetness, all while keeping the dish firmly within Paleo and low-salicylate guidelines.

Your Turn: Share Your Tips!

Have you created a tomato-free version of your favourite dish? Do you have other go-to ingredients for recreating sauces and bases? Whether it’s pumpkin, red capsicum (if tolerated), or even fermented vegetables, I’d love to hear what works for you. Share your ideas in the comments below – your suggestion might just help someone else who’s navigating similar food restrictions.

Looking for More Tomato-Free Inspiration?

Keep an eye on the blog for more tomato-free recipes, including chilli, ragu, and other classics made suitable for low-salicylate and nightshade-free diets. Once you start experimenting, you’ll be surprised at how many ways there are to adapt your favourites and still enjoy delicious, nourishing meals.

This Tomato-Free Bolognese is a great reminder that limitations can often lead to the most creative – and delicious – discoveries. Whether you’re avoiding tomatoes for health reasons or simply looking for a new twist on an old classic, this dish is a must-try.