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Mushroom Lentil Loaf

This Mushroom Lentil Loaf is a hearty vegetarian dish that combines caramelized mushrooms and tender lentils with aromatic spices, baked into a rustic loaf with a crispy top. The dish features a moist, dense texture with a rich, savory flavor and a slightly chewy crust, perfect for comforting meals or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound mushrooms cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup lentils brown or green, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or oats for binding and crust
  • 1 large egg or flaxseed mixture
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste or sun-dried tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for flavor
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet
  • Loaf pan
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Chop the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Set aside.
  2. Sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until fragrant and browned, about 8 minutes. They should be caramelized and smell earthy.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the lentils in boiling water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked lentils slightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
  5. Add the sautéed mushroom mixture to the mashed lentils, then stir in breadcrumbs, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, lemon zest, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
  6. Whisk the egg or flaxseed mixture and fold it into the lentil and mushroom mixture, mixing gently until well combined but not overworked.
  7. Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan, pressing down firmly with the back of a spatula to pack it in tightly and smooth the top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy, and the loaf feels firm to the touch.
  9. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes; this helps it firm up for cleaner slices.
  10. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm or at room temperature, pairing with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Chilling the loaf before slicing helps prevent crumbling. Feel free to customize with additional herbs or chopped nuts for extra texture.