This Vegan Nut Roast is packed with flavor and crunch! Made with nuts, veggies, and herbs, it’s a tasty centerpiece for any meal.
Honestly, it’s great for impressing guests or simply enjoying on a cozy night in with a side of gravy. Plus, it’s easy to make, so I whip it up whenever I can!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, and cashews add a lovely crunch and flavor. You can mix and match based on what you have. Pistachios or pecans could work too, but be mindful of the taste differences!
Lentils: Cooked green or brown lentils provide protein and moisture. If you’re short on time, canned lentils can be a great shortcut. Just drain and rinse them well before using.
Onion & Garlic: Finely chopped onion and minced garlic build a flavorful base. If you prefer milder flavors, consider using shallots instead of raw onion. You can also opt for garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness and moisture. Zucchini works well as a substitute. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy loaf.
Nutritional Yeast: This gives a cheesy flavor without any dairy. If you’re unable to find it, you can use vegan cheese or omit it, though it might affect the taste slightly.
How Can I Make Sure My Nut Roast Holds Together?
Getting your nut roast to hold together is all about the mixing and pressing. The combination of breadcrumbs and lentils acts as a binder, so be sure to mix them well. Here are tips to ensure your loaf turns out firm:
- After cooking the vegetables, let them cool slightly to avoid steaming the breadcrumb mix.
- When mixing, use your hands to combine everything thoroughly. This helps compress the mixture, making it easier to hold together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the loaf pan to pack it down. This step is crucial for a cohesive slice.
How to Make Vegan Nut Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews, chopped)
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Vegan gravy or sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vegan nut roast takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. It’s an easy and tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, take a loaf pan and lightly grease it with some oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the grated carrots to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they soften a bit.
3. Mix the Ingredients Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped mixed nuts, and the sautéed onion and carrot mixture. Then, add the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
4. Shape and Bake the Loaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it down firmly with your hands or a spatula to ensure it holds together nicely. Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and the top is golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the nut roast from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up a little more. When ready to serve, cut it into slices, garnish with the freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy with some delicious vegan gravy or sauce!
This hearty vegan nut roast is flavorful and fulfilling, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any meal or celebration! Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mixed nuts with your favorites, such as pecans or hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor slightly, so choose ones that you enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Nutritional Yeast?
If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can use a vegan cheese powder or a bit of grated vegan parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor. Just keep in mind that this might change the consistency slightly, so adjust the amount of breadcrumbs if needed to maintain the loaf’s texture.
Can I Make This Nut Roast Ahead of Time?
How to Store Leftover Vegan Nut Roast?
Leftover nut roast should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave, just make sure to cover it to retain moisture.
