Easy Vegan Lentil Loaf Receipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (ensure they’re vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (acts as a binder)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain them.
  3. In a medium saucepan, bring the lentils and vegetable broth (or water) to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. While the lentils are cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, soy sauce (or tamari), flaxseed mixture, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  6. Lightly grease a loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
  7. Transfer the lentil mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and the top is golden brown.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious vegan lentil loaf! You can serve it with gravy, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes.

Introduction: Embrace the essence of plant-based goodness with our Easy Vegan Lentil Loaf recipe, a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the abundance of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. This delightful loaf offers a symphony of textures and aromas, showcasing the versatility and nourishing properties of lentils, vegetables, and savory herbs and spices. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan aficionado or simply looking to explore the world of meatless cuisine, this dish is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Join us on a journey of culinary creativity as we dive into the art of crafting this mouthwatering lentil loaf, perfect for any occasion or mealtime delight.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked green or brown lentils
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper, finely diced (any color)
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan with olive oil or cooking spray and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils and rolled oats. Use a potato masher or fork to lightly mash the lentils, leaving some whole for texture.
  3. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the grated carrot, diced celery, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Transfer the cooked vegetables to the bowl with the lentil-oat mixture. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy sauce or tamari, ground flaxseed, nutritional yeast, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  6. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Spoon the lentil mixture into the greased loaf pan, pressing it down firmly and smoothing the top with the back of a spoon.
  8. Bake the lentil loaf in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf is firm to the touch.
  9. Remove the lentil loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve slices of the lentil loaf with your favorite sides and garnishes, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or gravy.

Useful Information:

  1. Lentil Varieties: While green or brown lentils work best for this recipe due to their firm texture, you can also experiment with other lentil varieties like French green lentils or black lentils for added color and flavor.
  2. Nutritional Benefits: Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians looking to boost their protein intake.
  3. Flavor Enhancers: The combination of tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy sauce or tamari, and aromatic herbs and spices lends depth and complexity to the lentil loaf, elevating its flavor profile and making it irresistibly delicious.
  4. Texture Tips: For a loaf with a firmer texture, be sure to press the lentil mixture firmly into the loaf pan before baking. This helps to ensure that the loaf holds together well and slices cleanly.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 10g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 14g

Smart WW Points:

  • Green Plan: 6 SP per serving
  • Blue Plan: 5 SP per serving
  • Purple Plan: 5 SP per serving

Conclusion: Indulge in the wholesome goodness of our Easy Vegan Lentil Loaf, a nourishing and satisfying dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits of plant-based ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, this lentil loaf is sure to impress with its delicious taste and hearty texture. With simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Elevate your dining experience and nourish your body and soul with this delightful vegan creation.