Description
Mediterranean-inspired Vegan Lentil Loaf brings hearty plant-based comfort to dinner tables worldwide. Protein-packed lentils and aromatic herbs create a mouthwatering centerpiece that nourishes both body and soul, promising delicious satisfaction for you.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (200 g / 7.05 ounces) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup (75 g / 2.65 ounces) rolled oats
- ½ cup (60 g / 2.12 ounces) breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 2 ½ cups (600 ml / 20.29 fluid ounces) vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
Binding and Seasoning:
- ¼ cup (60 ml / 2.03 fluid ounces) ground flaxseed mixed with ¼ cup water (flax egg)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Glaze:
- ¼ cup (60 ml / 2.03 fluid ounces) ketchup
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Meticulously rinse lentils and submerge in water, bringing to a rolling boil before reducing to a gentle simmer. Cook until lentils reach a tender consistency, approximately 20-25 minutes, then thoroughly drain and reserve.
- Warm olive oil in a capacious skillet over moderate heat. Introduce finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables become translucent and release their aromatic essence, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- In a substantial mixing vessel, amalgamate cooked lentils with sautéed vegetable medley, integrating breadcrumbs, ground flaxseed, tomato paste, soy sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Employ a fork or hands to thoroughly incorporate ingredients, ensuring a cohesive yet textured composition. Adjust moisture levels by introducing water if mixture appears dry, or supplementing with breadcrumbs if excessively wet.
- Gently transfer the lentil mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan, pressing firmly to create a uniform surface and compact structure.
- Activate oven to 375F (190C). Position lentil loaf in preheated oven, allowing it to bake until the exterior develops a golden, crisp exterior, approximately 40-45 minutes.
- After removing from oven, permit loaf to rest momentarily before slicing. Optionally embellish with fresh parsley and accompany with complementary side dishes or a robust tomato sauce for enhanced flavor profile.
Notes
- Prevent mushy lentils by rinsing thoroughly and avoiding overcooking, which maintains a perfect texture for the loaf.
- Customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to add depth and personal touch.
- Enhance moisture and binding by using mashed sweet potato or additional ground flaxseed if the mixture feels too crumbly during preparation.
- Create a gluten-free version by substituting breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like rolled oats or almond flour for diverse dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg