Nut loaf

Nut Loaf is a rich, savoury dish popular in vegetarian and vegan cuisines, as well as among those who prefer a healthier alternative to traditional meat-based loaves. It is made primarily from a mixture of ground nuts, grains, and vegetables, and is often served as a main course or side dish.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in a Nut Loaf is, as the name suggests, nuts. These can include a variety of types such as walnuts, almonds, pecans, and cashews. The nuts are typically ground or finely chopped and then mixed with other ingredients to form the loaf.

In addition to nuts, a Nut Loaf often includes grains such as rice, quinoa, or breadcrumbs. These grains help to bind the ingredients together and give the loaf its structure.

Vegetables are another key component of a Nut Loaf. Commonly used vegetables include onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. These are usually sautéed until soft and then mixed with the nuts and grains.

To add flavour, a variety of herbs and spices such as garlic, thyme, rosemary, and paprika may be used. Some recipes also include cheese or eggs for additional richness, although these can be omitted for a vegan version.

Preparation

The preparation of a Nut Loaf involves combining the ingredients in a bowl, pressing the mixture into a loaf pan, and then baking it in the oven. The loaf is typically baked at a moderate temperature for about an hour, or until it is firm and golden brown.

Serving

Nut Loaf can be served hot or cold, and is often accompanied by a sauce or gravy. It can be sliced and served as a main course, or used as a filling for sandwiches.

Variations

There are many variations of Nut Loaf, with different combinations of nuts, grains, and vegetables. Some versions include additional ingredients such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. There are also gluten-free versions that use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.

See Also

• Vegetarian cuisine
• Vegan cuisine
• List of nut dishes