This hearty Chestnut, Walnut & Red Wine Loaf is a sophisticated vegetarian centerpiece that balances earthy sweetness with deep savory notes. The base of mashed chestnuts binds perfectly with toasted walnuts and savory aromatics like onion, celery, and garlic. A splash of red wine adds complexity, while herbs like thyme and basil provide a fresh finish. It’s an ideal dish for holiday gatherings or a comforting weekend dinner. The texture is dense yet tender, offering a satisfying alternative to traditional meat pies. Serve warm with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that feels both rustic and elegant.
Chestnut, Walnut & Red Wine Loaf
Description
This hearty Chestnut, Walnut & Red Wine Loaf is a sophisticated vegetarian centerpiece that balances earthy sweetness with deep savory notes. The base of mashed chestnuts binds perfectly with toasted walnuts and savory aromatics like onion, celery, and garlic. A splash of red wine adds complexity, while herbs like thyme and basil provide a fresh finish. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal dish for holiday gatherings or a comforting weekend dinner. The texture is dense yet tender, offering a satisfying alternative to traditional meat pies. Serve warm with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that feels both rustic and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375ðF (190ðC / Gas Mark 5).
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Grease a 2lb loaf pan and line it with a long strip of waxed paper or parchment paper for easy removal.
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In a large skillet, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for about 7 minutes until softened and translucent.
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Add the crushed garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the mashed chestnuts, grated cashews, grated walnuts, red wine (or stock), chopped parsley, brandy (or lemon juice), paprika, thyme, and basil.
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Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly to eliminate air pockets and create an even surface.
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Cover the loaf pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
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Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf is firm to the touch in the center.
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Remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 3 to 4 minutes to set.
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Loosen the edges with a knife, then invert the loaf onto a serving platter and carefully peel away the lining paper.
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Garnish with tomato slices, lemon slices, and fresh parsley sprigs before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 158.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 17.3g27%
- Saturated Fat 5.5g28%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 265.2mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.0g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.