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WHAT? Did we hear a non-meat bread loaf? Yes, a delicious surprise for all the vegetarian people out there! Who knew you could actually make this great recipe out of just veggies? Right? If you’re a vegetarian and you don’t usually eat meat then what is a more convenient than using veggies for a quicker and yummy alternative? Vegetarian recipes loaded with delicious plant-based ingredients, has all the comfort of a conventional meaty recipes without the added meat. Now this vegetarian meatloaf recipe, which makes a savory loaf that goes well with mashed potatoes, uses brown lentils, bell peppers, and gluten-free bread crumbs. It is excellent for vegetarians, vegans, and anybody looking for meatless options. This vegetarian loaf is so flavorful and straightforward that it will become a mainstay in your comfort meal menu. But first let us go back into history take a look at the history of meatloaf.
A Look at the History of Meatloaf
Wondering what is the history of a meatloaf? The history of meatloaf is extensive, spanning centuries and civilizations. Originally consisting of minced meat patties or “loaves” flavored with different toppings, it evolved into a flexible dish with numerous variations;
- Germans
- Their meatloaf contained hard-boiled eggs.
- Romans
- Savored meatloaf with spices, pine nuts, and wine-soaked bread.
- Europe in the Middle Ages
- For a special touch, add fruits, nuts, and seasonings.
Meatloaf was served in various ways, including hot and cold, with sauces, and even in gelatin layers.
Veggie meatloaf is a modern take on the dish that offers a plant-based substitute while preserving its rich and substantial texture. Whether conventional or vegetarian, meatloaf is a popular comfort food in many countries.
The Perfect Veggie Meatloaf Recipe
How can you make the amazing veggie loaf recipe? To make the perfect veggie meatloaf recipe you need to first look at these ingredients.
Ingredients for the Vegetarian Meatloaf Recipe
- One cup of brown lentils, cooked
- Half a cup of brown rice, cooked
- One bell pepper cut finely
- 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs, if necessary
- One-fourth cup barbecue sauce
- Two tsp soy sauce
- One spoonful of flaxseed meal
- One tsp black pepper
- One tsp of dehydrated oregano
Method for the Veggie Loaf
Turn the oven on to 375°F. For five minutes, sauté the onion and bell pepper. Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl and press into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, also a baking sheet. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes; drizzle with BBQ sauce during the last 10-15 minutes. Chill before cutting. Pair with mashed potatoes to create a hearty, plant-based supper.
Some Tips to Make the Most Incredible Vegetarian Meatloaf
With some of these tips, you can make your veggie loaf even more exciting!
- Use a Food Processor
Before combining the lentils, rice, and veggies with other ingredients, consider blending them in a food processor to achieve a finer texture.
- Personalize Your Veggies
You can change or add other vegetables to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. In this recipe, carrots, celery, and mushrooms are excellent.
- Make it Vegan
Use a flax egg or another egg substitute, and make sure your barbecue sauce is plant-based for a vegan version.
- Gluten-Free Option
To make this dish appropriate for gluten-sensitive people, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers
This meatloaf can be frozen for extended storage, and it keeps nicely in the fridge for up to a week. To serve, reheat in the microwave or oven.
Variations and Substitutes with a Vegetarian Bread loaf
You can add different flavors and ingredients to make your vegetarian bread loaf uniquely yours. Here are some suggestions;
1. Spicier Kick Vegetarian Meatloaf Recipe
- Add red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
2. Cheesy Flavor
- Mix in vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor. Go for Miyoko’s plant-based mozzarella cheese, which is a good option.
3. Substitutes for Lentils
- Swap the lentils for black beans or chickpeas for a different taste and texture.
With these easy changes, you can customize the loaf to your tastes and ensure that every slice tastes great. With so many alternatives, it’s simple to customize the ideal loaf to suit your tastes, be it spicy, cheesy, or made with a different type of bean foundation. You can also have the loaf with some veggilicious gravy!
Final Thoughts
As we come to the end, this recipe for vegetarian meatloaf is a delicious take on the traditional comfort food. It has none of the meat but still has all the comforting characteristics of conventional meatloaf thanks to its healthy blend of grains, lentils, and veggies. You may alter the recipe by adding various veggies, spices, or a sweet glaze made with BBQ sauce because it’s so flexible. Whether you’re seeking a vegan meatloaf or a gluten-free version, this recipe is easily customizable to meet your needs.
In conclusion, serve it with mashed potatoes for a satisfying, filling supper that the whole family will love. This plant-based meatloaf without the use of ground beef is so easy to make and tastes so good that it will quickly become a staple in your repertoire of plant-based recipes. Enjoy a tasty meatless filling veggie loaf!
