Try this vegan lentil loaf recipe for a flavorsome day
The vegan lentil loaf is a hearty and nutritious dish that has gained popularity as a plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf. Its origins are rooted in vegetarian cuisine, aiming to provide a dense, protein-rich meal using lentils as the main ingredient. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions, making it a staple in many vegan households. Check out the recipe and let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To make vegan lentil loaf, gather one cup dry green lentils, two cups vegetable broth, a diced small onion, two minced garlic cloves, one cup rolled oats, three tablespoons tomato paste, one tablespoon soy sauce or tamari, and a teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary. Include half a teaspoon black pepper and salt to taste.
Preparing the lentils
Begin by rinsing the green lentils under cold water. In a medium-sized pot, combine the lentils with two cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool slightly.
Sauteing vegetables
Place a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the onions, cooking until they're translucent, about five minutes. Then, stir in the garlic, sauteing for one minute until it's aromatic. Remove from the heat and let this sauteed mixture cool. It's now ready to be folded into the lentil loaf ingredients, contributing flavor and texture to the dish.
Mixing ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). In a large bowl, mash half of the cooked lentils with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Add in the remaining whole lentils along with sauteed onion and garlic mixture, rolled oats, tomato paste, soy sauce or tamari, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt.
Baking your loaf
Transfer the mixture into a lined loaf pan, pressing down firmly to ensure it's packed well—this helps it hold together after baking. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until firm and browned on top. Let it cool in the pan for at least ten minutes before slicing; this rest time helps it firm up further.
