Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering vegetarian dish that's about to become your new obsession! This Cranberry Maple Glazed Lentil Loaf isn't just another boring vegetarian recipe – it's a flavor explosion that will make meat-lovers question everything they know about plant-based cooking. Imagine a perfectly baked loaf that's simultaneously hearty, sweet, and savory, with a gorgeous cranberry glaze that'll have your taste buds dancing with joy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your lentil loaf bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a medium-sized pot, cook 1 cup of lentils according to package instructions until they are tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes. Drain any excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
- While the lentils are cooking, prepare your vegetables. Grate 1/2 cup of carrot and dice 1/2 cup of onion. You can use a food processor for quick and even chopping.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, grated carrot, and diced onion. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce and 1/4 cup of maple syrup to the mixture. This will add sweetness and moisture to the loaf.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of thyme, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Transfer the lentil mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly to ensure it holds together during baking.
- Cover the top of the loaf with any remaining cranberry sauce for added flavor and a nice glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf is firm to the touch.
- Once baked, remove the lentil loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice.
- Carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice into 8 servings and serve warm.
- Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Maple Glazed Lentil Loaf with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad!
Tips
- Use freshly cooked lentils for the best texture – avoid canned or overly mushy lentils.
- Make sure to drain lentils thoroughly to prevent a soggy loaf.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help it hold its shape during baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
- Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for unique flavor variations.
- Serve with a tangy side salad or roasted vegetables to complement the loaf's rich flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
