Remember the meatloaf your mum used to make? Now, you can enjoy a vegan version that's just as comforting and delicious. This vegan lentil meatloaf recipe has been a household favourite, even winning the approval of non-vegans. If you're a fan of classic meatloaf or just love good food, this recipe is for you.

Lentils are the unsung heroes of the vegan kitchen. These small, unassuming legumes have been a staple in diets worldwide for centuries, and for good reason. Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they also offer a plethora of nutritional benefits. Today, we're diving into the world of lentils and exploring one of their most delicious creations – Vegan Lentil Meatloaf.

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Lentils

Before we delve into the delectable world of Vegan Lentil Meatloaf, let's take a moment to appreciate the nutritional might of lentils. These tiny legumes are packed with essential nutrients that make them a must-have in any vegan diet.

1. Plant-Based Protein: Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal meat substitute. With about 25% protein content, lentils can play a pivotal role in maintaining a balanced and protein-rich vegan diet.

2. High Fibre Content: Fibre is essential for digestive health, and lentils offer it in abundance. They can aid in regulating blood sugar, promoting a feeling of fullness, and supporting a healthy gut.

3. Rich in Iron: Iron is vital for oxygen transportation in the body. Lentils provide a significant amount of iron, making them a great option for vegans who need to ensure they meet their daily iron requirements.

4. Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: Lentils are a source of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, potassium, and magnesium. These micronutrients play various roles in maintaining overall health.

5. Low in Fat: Lentils are naturally low in fat, making them an excellent choice for heart health and weight management.

6. Versatile and Affordable: Lentils are budget-friendly and versatile, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. If you are looking for another versatile use of lentil, check out this easy vegan haggis.

Vegan Lentil Meatloaf: The Star of the Show

Now, let's shine a spotlight on Vegan Lentil Meatloaf. This comforting vegan dish exemplifies the incredible potential of lentils in vegan cooking. It offers a striking resemblance to the traditional meatloaf, with none of the animal products.

A Hearty Vegan Classic: Vegan Lentil Meatloaf is a beloved classic in the vegan culinary world. It's rich, savoury, and satisfying, making it the perfect centrepiece for any dinner table. The lentils, in combination with a medley of vegetables and seasonings, create a texture and flavour reminiscent of traditional meatloaf.

Nutritional Benefits: Besides being a delicious comfort food, Vegan Lentil Meatloaf is a nutritional powerhouse. Thanks to the lentils, it's high in plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle health, energy, and overall vitality. The fibre content from lentils ensures a filling meal while supporting digestion and heart health.

Lentils are also a significant source of B vitamins, such as folate, which play a crucial role in energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system. This dish's iron content, contributed by lentils, ensures that you're getting a dose of this essential mineral, which is often a concern for those on a vegan diet.

Versatility Beyond Meatloaf: The beauty of lentils doesn't stop at Vegan Lentil Meatloaf. These legumes can be used in a myriad of dishes. From soups and stews to salads and curries, lentils can enhance both the flavour and nutrition of your meals. Their ability to absorb the flavours of the ingredients they're cooked with makes them a versatile and dynamic ingredient.

Popular ways to use lentils:

• Vegan Sloppy Joes

• Lentil Spaghetti Bolognese

• Bolognese Risotto

• Mujadara

Vegan comfort food brings warmth and satisfaction to plant-based dining, and the Vegan Lentil Meatloaf exemplifies this perfectly. This hearty dish captures the essence of classic meatloaf while staying true to vegan values. With lentils as the star ingredient, it offers the rich, savoury flavours and comforting texture we all crave. It's a reminder that going vegan doesn't mean giving up the comfort and nostalgia of your favourite dishes; it means finding new, compassionate ways to enjoy them.

Another hearty lentil dish is this Lentil and bean soup recipe.

Best sides to serve with this Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe:

The best sides to complement Vegan Lentil Meatloaf are those that balance its rich, savoury flavours. Here are some delicious options:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with meatloaf. Opt for dairy-free butter and milk for a fully vegan version.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts adds a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.

Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with a drizzle of lemon and garlic make for a light and refreshing side.

Easy Vegan Gravy: Velvety, easy vegan gravy, a luscious finishing touch for your vegan feast.

In the realm of vegan cooking, lentils stand as a symbol of nutrition and versatility. Vegan Lentil Meatloaf is just one example of how these humble legumes can be transformed into a mouth-watering masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or someone curious about plant-based cuisine, lentils can enrich your meals and provide essential nutrients in the most delectable way.

So, next time you're in the mood for a hearty, satisfying, and compassionate meal, don't forget to consider the versatile goodness of Vegan Lentil Meatloaf and the remarkable lentils that make it possible.

INGREDIENTS

Vegan Lentil Meatloaf

• 2 cups canned brown lentils, drained, rinsed

• 1 brown onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 1/2 cup red capsicum, diced

• 1 1/4 cup mushrooms, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce

• 2 tbsp flaxmeal

• 1 tbsp parsley

• Salt & Pepper

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/3 cup tomato sauce

• Brown sugar

  
  

METHOD

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

• In a pan, sauté the diced onion, carrots, capsicum, and mushrooms until they become soft and tender.

• Stir in the minced garlic, and season the mixture with salt and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional minute, then remove the pan from the heat and allowing it to cool.

• In a food processor, combine the sautéed vegetables, drained lentils, tomato paste, BBQ sauce, flax meal, parsley, oats, and breadcrumbs. Pulse the ingredients until they are well combined and form a consistent mixture. If necessary, blend in batches to ensure uniformity.

• Take the resulting mixture and shape it into a log or loaf shape. Place the log on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring the baking sheet has raised edges to contain any drippings.

• Bake the log in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until it becomes firm and develops a golden-brown exterior.

• Remove the log from the oven and evenly spread tomato sauce over the entire surface of the log, using more sauce if desired. Sprinkle a layer of brown sugar on top of the tomato sauce to aid in caramelisation.

• Place the log back into the oven for an additional 15 minutes. This step allows the sauce and sugar to caramelise, enhancing the flavour and appearance.

• Once done, take the log out of the oven. Allow it to cool outside of the oven. During this time, the log will firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.