Meatloaf is one of those all-American comfort foods that many of us crave. The traditional recipe is made with ground meat, spices, and bread. But, if you’re vegetarian or vegan there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy this dish.
These are plenty of delicious meatless recipes out there that use vegan substitutes for an easy and quick take on the classic. For instance, ingredients such as legumes, rice or nuts can be used instead of meat and bread can be substituted with nutritional yeast. You could even use store-bought mock meats that are quite flavourful and great for anyone with allergies. These vegan meatloaf versions are usually lower in fat and cholesterol compared to meat-based versions. Here are some vegan meat replacements to consider.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a fantastic, hearty substitute for meat. After soybeans, chickpeas are the most widely cultivated and consumed beans in the world. They are a big part of the diets of some of the healthiest populations in the world. Chickpeas are commonly found in Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern dishes. They are nutritious, filling and inexpensive. Chickpeas are loved by vegans and meat-eaters alike. They help improve digestion, allow you to feel full for long and keep blood sugar levels stable. Chickpeas also taste great in stews, soups, and chilis.
Try this delicious chickpea vegan meatloaf recipe, to become a huge fan of chickpeas yourself.
Lentils
Lentils have always been a popular substitute for meat among people following a plant-based lifestyle. They are healthy, full of protein and promote satiety, making them an excellent addition to any meatloaf recipe. There are many different types of lentils, usually identified by their colors—red, green, brown and black. They don’t take long to cook, and a small amount goes a long way.
This delicious vegetable lentil loaf is a must-try recipe for vegans.
Quinoa
Quinoa resembles couscous in terms of size and texture but is much more nutritious. It is one of the only grains that contains certain essential amino acids that our bodies can’t produce on their own. Quinoa is an excellent protein-packed substitute for meat and is full of nutrients like iron, fiber, manganese, and magnesium. In addition to being delicious in a meatloaf, it also tastes great in casseroles, pancakes, salads, and cookies.
If you’re looking for a tasty quinoa meatloaf recipe, try this one from glowkitchen.com
To make your vegan meatloaf even more delicious, serve it with your favorite homemade gravy and creamy mashed potatoes. You could also whip up a simple green side salad for a wholesome, nutritious meal.
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