Description
Our vibrant, (brick-red tomato glaze) on this comforting (lentil loaf recipe) fills my kitchen with an aroma that signals pure comfort. It’s a plant-based powerhouse that feels indulgent and pairs perfectly with simple sides.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (180g) dried green or brown lentils
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 0.75 cup (70g) rolled oats or breadcrumbs (or certified gluten-free oats for gluten-free)
- 0.5 cup (120ml) ketchup (or homemade unsweetened tomato sauce)
- 2 Tbsp (25g) brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 0.5 tsp dried sage
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 cup (120ml) vegetable broth, plus more for cooking lentils (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prep Lentils & Vegetables: Rinse 1 cup of lentils and cook according to package directions until tender but not mushy, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well. While lentils cook, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute diced onion, shredded carrots, and diced celery for 8-10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix the Loaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sauteed vegetables, 0.75 cup oats or breadcrumbs, 0.5 cup vegetable broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, 0.5 tsp dried sage, and 0.5 tsp smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until well combined and cohesive. If too dry, add 1-2 Tbsp more broth.
- Form & Initial Bake: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper. Press the lentil mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges begin to look set and lightly golden.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the loaf bakes, whisk together 0.5 cup ketchup, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of smoked paprika in a small bowl to create the vibrant glaze.
- Glaze & Final Bake: Remove the partially baked loaf from the oven. Spread the prepared glaze generously over the top, coating it evenly. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized, and the loaf feels firm to the touch.
Notes
To save time, use pre-chopped mirepoix mix or quick-cooking lentils. The lentil loaf mixture can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight. Avoid over-mixing to prevent a dense loaf and ensure lentils are well-drained. Allow the loaf to rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier and cleaner slicing. Consider doubling the glaze if desired for dipping.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 110g)
- Calories: 310 calories
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: lentil loaf recipe, easy dinner idea, healthy eating, plant-based, family-friendly, tomato glaze, quick meals, meal prep, vegetarian, comfort food