Vegan Meatloaf | Easy Lentil Loaf!

nutritional yeast

🥗Healthier: brewer's yeast

💰Cheaper: parmesan cheese

Brewer's yeast provides similar umami flavor with fewer calories.

ground flaxseed

🥗Healthier: chia seeds

💰Cheaper: ground chia seeds

Chia seeds offer similar binding properties and are often less expensive.

ketchup

🥗Healthier: homemade tomato sauce

💰Cheaper: store-brand ketchup

Homemade sauce can reduce sugars and preservatives.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water + seasoning

Homemade stock is lower in sodium and additives.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

If using dry lentils, add 1/2 cup of dry green or brown lentils to a small saucepan and cover with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes.

Chop 1/2 of a yellow onion, 1 large carrot, 1 celery stalk, and 2 cloves of garlic.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped vegetables and stir until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.

In a food processor fitted with an S blade, add 1 1/2 cups of cooked lentils and the sautéed vegetables.

Add 1 cup of quick cooking oats, 1/2 cup of pecans or walnuts, 2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds, 2 tablespoons of tamari, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper to the food processor.

Pulse the mixture briefly until it sticks together when pressed between your fingers, but do not make it completely smooth.

Prepare a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan by lightly spraying it with oil and pressing a piece of parchment paper inside.

Transfer the lentil mixture into the loaf pan and press firmly to pack it together.

To make the glaze, combine 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Stir together and spread over the top of the lentil loaf.

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until the top looks darker and fragrant.

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before using the parchment paper to lift it out. Slice and serve warm.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens