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Vegan Nut and Lentil Loaf

This plant-based nut and lentil loaf combines roasted mushrooms, hearty lentils, and crunchy walnuts to create a savory, loaf-shaped centerpiece. It’s baked until golden and crispy on the outside, with a moist, tender interior that’s rich in umami flavors. Perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions, it invites everyone to gather around and enjoy a wholesome, indulgent vibe.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup walnuts soaked for 2 hours or overnight
  • 1 cup cooked lentils preferably pre-cooked or canned, drained
  • 2 cups mushrooms sautéed until smoky and juicy
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs or crushed oats
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • additional salt to taste

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry brush
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a food processor, pulse the soaked walnuts until coarsely chopped, with some texture remaining.
  3. Add cooked lentils and sautéed mushrooms to the processor and pulse until mixture is chunky but well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl, then stir in minced garlic, chopped thyme, sage, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  5. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape on the prepared baking sheet, pressing gently to firm it up.
  6. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top and sides of the loaf with olive oil, which will help it crisp and brown nicely.
  7. Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, until the exterior is golden and slightly crispy, and the loaf feels firm to the touch.
  8. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to set, which makes slicing easier.
  9. Slice the loaf thickly and serve with your favorite seasonal vegetables and a generous drizzle of vegan gravy or sauce.