Introduction: Looking for a hearty and satisfying vegan dish that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week? Look no further than this mouthwatering Vegan Lentil Meatloaf recipe! Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, this meatloaf alternative will impress even the most devout carnivores at your table.

Ingredients: To create this delectable vegan meatloaf, you’ll need a variety of wholesome ingredients. From cooked lentils and rolled oats to an array of finely chopped vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bell peppers, and mushrooms, every component contributes to the rich and savory flavor profile. The addition of tomato paste, soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices such as thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika adds depth and complexity to the dish. A simple yet effective binder made from ground flaxseed mixed with water ensures the meatloaf holds its shape perfectly.

Preparation: Preparing this vegan lentil meatloaf is a breeze. Begin by preheating your oven and lining a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. Then, it’s time to bring together all the ingredients. Start by mashing the cooked lentils until they reach a desirable texture, retaining some texture for added bite. Next, sauté the finely chopped vegetables until they’re soft and aromatic, infusing the dish with layers of flavor. Combine the lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, tomato paste, soy sauce, flaxseed mixture, and a blend of herbs and spices in a large mixing bowl, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

Baking and Serving: Once the mixture is evenly combined, transfer it into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly to shape the meatloaf. For an extra burst of flavor, top the loaf with your favorite BBQ sauce or ketchup before placing it in the oven. Bake until the top is golden brown and the loaf is firm to the touch, creating a tantalizing aroma that will fill your kitchen. After allowing the meatloaf to cool for a few minutes, slice it into generous portions and serve alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion: With its robust flavor, hearty texture, and wholesome ingredients, this Vegan Lentil Meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, someone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply seeking a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meatloaf, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Prepare to delight your taste buds and nourish your body with every mouthful of this satisfying dish.

vegan meatloaf

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked lentils
  • 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water (as a binder)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • BBQ sauce or ketchup for topping (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked lentils until they are mostly broken down, but still have some texture.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
  4. In a skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the sautéed vegetables to the mashed lentils along with the rolled oats, tomato paste, soy sauce, flaxseed mixture, dried herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
  7. If desired, spread some BBQ sauce or ketchup on top of the meatloaf for extra flavor.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is slightly browned and the loaf is firm to the touch.
  9. Allow the meatloaf to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious vegan meatloaf!