The Ultimate Vegetable Lentil Loaf (Printer-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Lentil Loaf

01 - 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown)
02 - 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 cup grated carrots
07 - 1 cup finely chopped celery
08 - 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
09 - 1/2 cup rolled oats
10 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or use gluten-free if needed)
11 - 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (or 2 tablespoons chia seeds)
12 - 1/4 cup ketchup
13 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
14 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegan if needed)
15 - 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
16 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - 1 teaspoon cumin
18 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
19 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Glaze

20 - 1/4 cup ketchup
21 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
22 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

# Let's Cook!:

01 - Rinse lentils and combine with vegetable broth. Boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
02 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
03 - Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté until soft and moisture has evaporated.
04 - Mix cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, oats, breadcrumbs, flaxseed, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Adjust consistency with broth or breadcrumbs if needed.
05 - Transfer mixture to the loaf pan and press down firmly. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and glaze is caramelized.
06 - Mix ketchup, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. Spread over the loaf before baking.
07 - Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Cook's Notes:

01 - Assemble the loaf a day in advance and bake when needed.
02 - Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.