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Vegetarian Loaf

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This hearty and flavorful Vegetarian Loaf is a plant-based twist on classic meatloaf, made with lentils, oats, vegetables, and nuts for a satisfying texture and rich, savory flavor. Topped with a tangy maple-ketchup glaze, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or meal prep. Nutritious, comforting, and easy to make, this vegan-friendly loaf is a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup carrots, grated
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water (for flax eggs)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
  • Make Flax Eggs: Combine ground flaxseed and water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken.
  • Sauté Veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  • Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, lightly mash the lentils. Add sautéed veggies, flax eggs, oats, breadcrumbs, nuts, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Shape the Loaf: Press the mixture firmly into the loaf pan to help it hold its shape.
  • Add Glaze: Mix glaze ingredients and spread over the top of the loaf evenly.
  • Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the loaf is firm and the glaze is caramelized.
  • Cool & Serve: Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, veggies, or gravy.

Notes

  • Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats, breadcrumbs, and tamari.
  • Other Legumes: Try chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans in place of lentils.
  • Add-Ins: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini add extra moisture and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/vegetarian-loaf/