Meatless Monday Meatloaf

Growing up, I always hated meatloaf.  Now that’s not really saying much, since growing up I hated pretty much everything.   But as I slowly started trying (and liking) more and more foods,  meatloaf was never one I felt compelled to embrace.  It just seemed like a weird-textured block of overcooked meat.

Even now, as someone who takes pride in a willingness to try anything, I generally don’t find that characterization too far off base.  But this meatloaf is different: it has loads of flavor and a wonderful texture… Oh, and it doesn’t contain meat!

Apple BBQ Glazed Lentil Walnut Loaf (Vegan and Husband-Approved)

From Oh She Glows

Yield: 7 Servings; 1 large loaf or 14 muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked lentils (I used red split lentils)
• 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp ground flax + 1/2 cup water
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups diced sweet onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 1/3 cup peeled and grated sweet apple
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup wheat flour
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp fresh thyme or 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• salt & pepper, to taste
• red pepper flakes, to taste

Balsamic Apple Glaze:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple butter
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1. Preheat oven to 350F.  Place lentils into pot along with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium/low and simmer, uncovered, for at least 40-45 minutes. Stir frequently & add touch of water if needed. The goal is to over-cook the lentils slightly Mash lentils slightly with a spoon when finished.

2. Meanwhile, heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sautee the garlic and onion for about 5 minutes. Add in the diced celery, shredded carrot and apple, and raisins. Saute for about 5 minutes more. Remove from heat.

3. Whisk ground flax with water in a small bowl.  In a large mixing bowl, mix all ingredients together. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

4. Grease a loaf pan and line with parchment paper or grease a muffin pan with no papers. Press mixture firmly into pan. Whisk glaze ingredients and then spread half on top of loaf. Reserve the rest for a dipping sauce.

5. Bake at 350F for 40-50 minutes, uncovered.  Edges will be lightly brown.   

Johanna