Moroccan Lentil Loaf brings exotic flavors and plant-based nutrition to my table. I love its wholesome ingredients and robust flavors. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Contents
Moroccan lentil loaf recipe
Moroccan Lentil Loaf is a plant-based and nutritious dish. It serves as an alternative to traditional meatloaf with lentils, vegetables, nuts, and Moroccan spices. It is packed full of nutritious things. The loaf has protein from the lentils and flaxseed, and many vegetables and fruit.
Making this bread requires some time and planning. But the loaf stays fresh for days. This loaf is vegetarian and gluten-free. I used an egg to help it bind and to give it a nice top. You can skip it for a vegan recipe.
You can slice the loaf and eat it cold in sandwiches. This makes it perfect for lunchboxes. The recipe is ideal for busy nights or pre-planned meals. Here is how to make vegetarian lentil loaf with egg.
Moroccan Lentil Loaf
Ingredients
- 200 g lentils
- 100 g rolled oats I used gluten-free oats
- 1 onion
- 1 celery stick
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 baby sweet pepper
- 2 tbsp flaxseed
- 50 g dried apricots
- 30 g sultanas
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp tumeric paprika, cumin seeds, black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200oC. Grease and line a loaf tin.
- Rinse the lentils and put in a pan with about a pint of water or vegetable stock. Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 30 mins with a lid on. Stir occasionally. Drain the lentils and put into a bowl to cool.
- Dice the onion, garlic and celery and begin to saute in a frying pan with a little vegetable oil. Finely chop the peppers and carrot and add to the pan. Add the tumeric, paprika, cumin and pepper. Stir and saute until the vegetables have softened, then remove from the heat.
- Mix the flaxseed with about 2 tbsp of water and set to one side.
- Roughly chop the dried apricots and beat the egg.
- Use a food blender to puree about half of the lentils. This will help to stop the loaf falling apart.
- Combine everything in a large mixing bowl, adding the remaining spices, oats, sultanas, flaxseed and most of the egg at this stage – reserve a small amount of the egg for the top of the loaf.
- Spoon into the loaf tin and lightly brush the remaining egg over the top. Put into the oven and bake for about 45 mins, until browned.
- Leave to cool fully in the tin, then turn out carefully. It is a little delicate, but it should be firm enough once cool. Cut into slices and serve – it works well with mashed potatoes and gravy, or steamed vegetables and a dip, or any way you like!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 5 days.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months.
- Place portions in freezer-safe containers with parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. Use freezer-safe ziplock bags for storage if needed. Remove excess air from the ziplock bags before sealing them.
Nutrition
Pairing suggestions
Moroccan lentil loaf pairs well with various accompaniments.
- Recommended Side Dishes
- Vegan mashed potatoes complement the loaf beautifully.
- Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch.
- Roasted or glazed carrots provide sweetness.
- Sautéed green beans offer freshness.
- Fennel and orange salad balances the loaf’s richness.
- Arugula salad adds a peppery flavor.
- Kale salad pairs well with lentils.
- Creamy scalloped potatoes are comforting.
- Baked vegan mac & cheese complements the loaf.
- Healthy baked beans enhance the meal.
- A simple side salad provides freshness
- Drinks
- Citrus-based juices contrast the earthy loaf flavors brightly.
- Sparkling apple juice adds refreshing effervescence to the hearty dish.
- Coconut lassi enhances the loaf’s spices with a creamy richness.
- Mint tea offers a soothing and light beverage option.
- Sauvignon Blanc pairs with lentil loaf flavors, enhancing without overpowering.
- Dry rosé balances fruitiness and acidity, complementing the loaf’s texture.
Variations
Here are some variations and ideas to enhance Moroccan lentil loaf:
- Spice adjustments
- Add cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
- Use cilantro or parsley for freshness.
- Glazes
- Tomato glaze mixes ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
- Tomato glaze applies the glaze for a sweet finish.
- Barbecue sauce combines ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices.
- Barbecue sauce uses it for a smoky flavor.
- Additional ingredients
- Nuts or seeds add walnuts or sunflower seeds.
- Mushroom gravy serves mushroom gravy instead of glaze.
