Lentil Meetloaf
Lentil meatloaf offers a tasty and nutritious twist on a classic dish, suitable for vegans and those on a gluten-free diet. Packed with protein-rich lentils, wholesome vegetables, and flavorful herbs and spices, it provides essential nutrients like fiber, iron, and folate. This plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf supports heart health, aids digestion, and promotes satiety, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal option. Enjoy the savory goodness of lentil meatloaf guilt-free, knowing it's both delicious and packed with health benefits.
- 1 cup dry lentils (you can use green or brown)
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 small white onion diced
- 1 small carrot grated
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 3/4 cup gluten free oats
- 1/2 cup gluten free bread crumbs (or crushed gluten free crackers)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoons of onion powder
- salt and pepper
Glaze
- 3 tablespoons Ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare you lentils by rinsing and removing any odd pieces.
- In a large pot add the 2 1/2 cups of the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat, cover and simmer about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally. When lentils are cooked remove them from the stove and allow to cool. Leave any remaining water in the pot as the lentils will absorb the water as they sit. This should take approximately 15 minutes.
- While they are cooling mix 1/3 cup of water with the flaxseed meal in a small bowl and place in the fridge to allow it to thicken.
- Preheat your oven now to 350 degrees.
- In a sauté pan heat the oil on medium. Add your garlic, onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add the spices to the sautéed vegetables and mix well. Set aside and allow to cool.
- Using a high powered blender like a Vitamix, an immersion blender or food processor blend 3/4 of the cooked lentils.
- Place all ingredients in a medium sized bowl and mix really well.
- Place mixture in a 9x5 loaf pan that is greased with Vegan margarine or parchment paper if you prefer and press mixture down.
- Prepare your glaze by mixing all three ingredients in bowl and spread evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the center of your oven for about 45 minutes. When loaf is cooked let it sit on the counter for a few minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy!
“Embracing a plant-based lifestyle was my conscious choice to nourish not only my body but also my values. It's a journey that not only revitalizes my health but also connects me to a world of compassion and sustainability.”