Here’s a comprehensive recipe guide to making a vegetarian mushroom meatloaf that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Vegetarian mushroom meatloaf – ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

Mushrooms: 1 kg, finely chopped
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Carrot: 2 medium, grated
Celery: 2 stalks, finely chopped
Walnuts: 1 cup, toasted and finely chopped
Cooked Lentils: 2 cups (brown or green)
Bread crumbs: 1 cup (preferably whole grain)
Flaxseed meal: 3 tablespoons mixed with 1/3 cup water
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive oil: For sautéing

For the Glaze:

Tomato ketchup: 1/2 cup
Maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon

Equipment:

Large skillet
Food processor (optional)
Mixing bowls
Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
Oven
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions:

Preparing the Ingredients:

Mushroom Preparation: Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and finely chop them. If using a food processor, pulse until they are finely chopped but not mushy.
Toast the Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for about 8-10 minutes until they are fragrant. Let them cool and then chop finely.
Prepare Flaxseed Meal Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the flaxseed meal with water and set aside to thicken for about 5 minutes. This acts as a binder.

Cooking the Vegetables:

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent. Add carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper.

Mixing the Ingredients:

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetable mixture, toasted walnuts, cooked lentils, bread crumbs, tomato paste, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and the flaxseed mixture. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Preparing the Loaf:

Loaf Pan Preparation: Grease a loaf pan with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the meatloaf.
Form the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan. Press it down and shape it into a loaf, ensuring it’s packed well to hold its shape during baking.

Making the Glaze:

Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together tomato ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
Apply the Glaze: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Baking the Meatloaf:

Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.
Additional Glazing: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Final Steps:

Resting: After baking, let the meatloaf rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it to set and makes slicing easier.
Serving: Gently remove the meatloaf from the pan and slice it. Serve warm with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Additional Tips:

Mushroom Choices: Different types of mushrooms like cremini, portobello, or button mushrooms can be used for varied flavors.
Lentil Options: You can use canned lentils for convenience, just be sure to drain and rinse them well.
Breadcrumb Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or rolled oats.
Serving Suggestions: This meatloaf pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as mushroom gravy or a balsamic reduction.
Storing and Reheating: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.

Source: https://www.liveeatlearn.com/mushroom-meatloaf/

Wrapping up

This vegetarian mushroom meatloaf is a hearty, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of mushrooms, lentils, and walnuts provides a meaty texture and flavor, while the glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful meatloaf and the pleasure of sharing it with your loved ones!