Plant Based Recipe Easy Meatloaf

Plant Based Recipe Easy Weekday Dinner

Plant Based Meal Recipes

I like this plant based recipe easy for beginner chefs for several reasons, one of which, is it is one of the plant-based dinner recipes kid-friendly, family friendly, dinner-party friendly recipes that you can pull out for almost any occasion that is guaranteed people pleaser.

Plant-Based Meal Recipes Nutrition

High in Fiber

Plant-based meatloaf is usually made with high fiber ingredients like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. These ingredients provide essential nutrients, help to keep the digestive system healthy, and keep you feeling full for a longer time.

Low in Saturated Fat

Plant-based meatloaf is low in saturated fat as compared to traditional meatloaf. Saturated fat is known to increase the risk of heart diseases, so reducing the intake of saturated fat can help to maintain a healthy heart.

Rich in Plant Protein

Plant-based meatloaf can be a great source of protein as it includes legumes, nuts, and seeds. These plant-based sources of protein are packed with essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of our muscles.

Vitamins and Minerals

Plant-based meatloaf is usually rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, calcium, and potassium, which are important for overall health and wellbeing.

Cholesterol-Free

Plant-based meatloaf is free of cholesterol, which is only found in animal products. High cholesterol levels can lead to heart diseases, so consuming plant-based foods instead of animal-based foods can help to maintain a healthy cholesterol level.

By incorporating plant-based meatloaf into your diet, you can reap these nutritional benefits while also reducing your environmental impact and animal cruelty.

Tips & Tricks on Making Plant Based Meatloaf

Here are some tips and tricks for making plant-based meatloaf:

Use the right plant-based protein: Choose a high-protein ingredient such as lentils, chickpeas, black beans, tempeh, or tofu as your base for the meatloaf. These ingredients have a similar texture to ground meat and can easily absorb flavors.
Add vegetables: Finely chopped vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery add texture, flavor, and nutrients to the meatloaf. They also help to keep the meatloaf moist.
Use binding agents: In traditional meatloaf, eggs are used to hold the ingredients together. In a plant-based version, you can use flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken), chickpea flour, or breadcrumbs.
Flavor with herbs and spices: Add your favorite herbs and spices to the meatloaf to enhance the flavor. Try adding garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, or cumin.
Bake in a loaf pan: Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and bake in a loaf pan. This helps the meatloaf to hold its shape and cook evenly.
Top with sauce: Brush your favorite sauce on top of the meatloaf before baking or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
Let it cool: Once the meatloaf is cooked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from falling apart.

By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and healthy plant-based meatloaf that everyone will love.

Plant-Based Meatloaf

Print Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 50

Servings 6 people

Calories 276 kcal

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Ketchup or barbecue sauce for topping

Instructions

Prep

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Saute

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic
Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and it evaporates, about 10 minutes.
1 cup chopped mushrooms

Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, rolled oats, almond flour, chopped walnuts, soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
1 cup cooked lentils, 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, Salt and pepper to taste
Add the sautéed onion and mushroom mixture to the bowl and mix well.

Bake

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and press the mixture into the pan.
Spread ketchup or barbecue sauce over the top of the loaf.
Ketchup or barbecue sauce for topping
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is browned and the loaf is firm.
Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQ Making Plant Based Meatloaf

What can I use instead of lentils?

You can substitute lentils with other legumes such as black beans or chickpeas. These legumes have a similar texture to lentils and work well in meatloaf recipes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can use any other type of nut you prefer, such as almonds or cashews.

Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the meatloaf before baking and thaw it before cooking.