Monday, February 4, 2013

Lentil Apple Walnut Loaf

Sweet, savory, and satisfying... Lentil Apple Walnut Loaf!

If you have seen only some of my little foodie blog, you surely know by now that I love lentils. These tiny, versatile legumes are quick-cooking and nutrient-rich with protein, fiber, and iron.  I have worked hard at making this recipe just the way I want it before sharing... which is why I am tickled to offer it here today!

This particular recipe is a bit involved- (be prepared to use multiple pots and pans) but I promise it is worth it. It's a great meal to make on the weekend or day off and enjoy for the week ahead. Having dinner ready to reheat on a weeknight is much appreciated for this (now!) working couple! :-)
Lentil Apple Walnut Loaf
Recipe adapted from Terry Walters' Clean Food

Ingredients
For loaf:
1 cup dried lentils
3 cups vegetable broth
3 tbsp ground flax seed
1/2 cup water
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, grated
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 apples, peeled, grated, and mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice
3/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
1 tsp garam masala
1 cup breadcrumbs
(*Note- Substitute brown rice breadcrumbs if making the recipe gluten-free)

For glaze:
2 tbsp organic ketchup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tbsp corn starch

Directions
Preparing lentils
Rinse lentils, place in a pot, and cover with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until liquid is absorbed and lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing loaf
In a small bowl, combine ground flax seed with water and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large skillet over medium heat, saute onion and carrot in olive oil for 2 minutes. Add rice vinegar and saute 3 minutes more until soft. Add grated apple, walnuts, and garam masala and saute another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, and soaked flax seed until evenly mixed. Press mixture firmly into lightly oiled loaf pan and set aside.

Preparing glaze
In a small saucepan over no heat, combine all glaze ingredient until smooth. Place over medium heat and stir continuously until thick (about 2-3 minutes). Spread evenly over loaf and bake, uncovered, 40 minutes.

Serve with sauteed greens and brown rice for a lovely meal!

Happy eating!