Description
Hearty Vegan Lentil Loaf showcases plant-based comfort with Mediterranean herbs and spices. Protein-packed lentils combine with roasted vegetables, creating a satisfying main dish perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200 g / 7.05 oz) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup (75 g / 2.65 oz) rolled oats
- ½ cup (60 g / 2.12 oz) breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 2 ½ cups (600 ml / 20.29 fl oz) vegetable broth or water
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- ¼ cup (60 ml / 2.03 fl oz) ground flaxseed mixed with ¼ cup water (flax egg)
- 2 tbsps soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 2 tbsps ketchup
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup (60 ml / 2.03 fl oz) ketchup
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Lentil Preparation: Rinse lentils thoroughly and boil in water, then reduce heat to simmer until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Vegetable Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until vegetables become soft and fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Mixture Assembly: Combine cooked lentils with sautéed vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Incorporate breadcrumbs, ground flaxseed, tomato paste, soy sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, adjusting consistency with water or breadcrumbs as needed to achieve a cohesive texture.
- Loaf Formation and Baking: Transfer mixture to a parchment-lined loaf pan, pressing firmly to create an even surface. Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and bake for 40-45 minutes until the exterior turns golden and crisp.
- Serving: Allow loaf to rest briefly after removing from oven. Slice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a complementary tomato sauce or preferred side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Rinse Thoroughly: Clean lentils meticulously to remove debris and prevent gritty texture, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
- Control Moisture Balance: Adjust breadcrumbs or water carefully to maintain perfect loaf consistency – neither too dry nor crumbly, creating ideal binding and texture.
- Sauté for Depth: Caramelize vegetables slowly to unlock rich, complex flavors that elevate the overall taste of the lentil loaf, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.
- Baking Precision: Watch loaf carefully during final minutes of baking to achieve golden-brown crust without over-drying, using parchment paper for easy removal and perfect presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg