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Lentil Loaf

Lentil Loaf recipe image
This Lentil Loaf is a comforting, wholesome alternative to traditional meat loaves, perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. Made with red lentils that cook down into a creamy base, this dish is bound together with savory onions, fresh parsley, and a hint of spicy cayenne. The addition of nutritional yeast provides a subtle cheesy depth without any dairy. It has a tender yet firm texture that holds up well when sliced, making it ideal for sandwiches or served alongside roasted vegetables and a side of mashed potatoes. It&# 226;ÂÂs a versatile weeknight dinner option that is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4
Calories: 184.0
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
This Lentil Loaf is a comforting, wholesome alternative to traditional meat loaves, perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. Made with red lentils that cook down into a creamy base, this dish is bound together with savory onions, fresh parsley, and a hint of spicy cayenne. The addition of nutritional yeast provides a subtle cheesy depth without any dairy. It has a tender yet firm texture that holds up well when sliced, making it ideal for sandwiches or served alongside roasted vegetables and a side of mashed potatoes. It&# 226;ÂÂs a versatile weeknight dinner option that is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Ingredients
  • 6 ounce Red lentils
  • 12 ounce Water
  • 1 ea Onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne
  • 1 tablespoon Nutritional yeast
Directions
  1. 1
    Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
  2. 2
    Place lentils in a saucepan and cover with water (use the 12 oz water or enough to cover by an inch).
  3. 3
    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until lentils are soft and mushy.
  4. 4
    Drain any excess water if necessary; you want a stiff puree consistency.
  5. 5
    While lentils cook, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  6. 6
    Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  7. 7
    Stir in the cayenne pepper and cook for another 30 seconds to bloom the spice.
  8. 8
    In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentil puree and the onion mixture.
  9. 9
    Stir in the parsley and nutritional yeast.
  10. 10
    If the mixture is too dry to hold together, add a splash of water or vegetable stock.
  11. 11
    Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  12. 12
    Preheat oven to 375ðF (190ðC).
  13. 13
    Grease a 1-pound loaf pan lightly with oil.
  14. 14
    Press the lentil mixture firmly into the loaf pan, smoothing the top.
  15. 15
    Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
  16. 16
    Remove from oven and let stand in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up.
  17. 17
    Carefully turn out onto a plate and slice to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 184.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.6g1%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 4.0mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 32.3g11%
Dietary Fiber 12.3g50%
Sugars 3.8g
Protein 13.8g28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.

Ingredient Substitution: You can use brown or green lentils, but they will take longer to cook (approx. 30-40 minutes) and will retain more texture. Adjust water accordingly.

Texture Tip: Ensure the lentils are well-drained if using canned or if they absorb less water than expected. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when pressed into the loaf pan.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A dollop of vegan mayo or hummus makes a great dip.

Original Attribution: Very loosely based on Sarah Brown, "Vegetarian Kitchen".

Keywords: lentil loaf, vegan main, vegetarian dinner, plant based, red lentils, healthy baking, high protein, meal prep, comfort food, dairy free, gluten free, easy recipe, budget friendly, nutritional yeast, onion recipe, spicy lentils, homemade loaf, family dinner, weeknight meal
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/lentil-loaf/