Nut roast

Nut Roast is a rich, savoury dish popular in vegetarian and vegan diets. It is often served as a meat-free alternative to a traditional roast dinner, particularly during festive occasions such as Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredient in a nut roast is nuts, typically a mixture of walnuts, almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts. These are combined with a variety of other ingredients to add flavour and texture, such as onions, garlic, herbs, spices, breadcrumbs, and eggs or a vegan alternative. Some recipes also include cheese, mushrooms, lentils, or vegetables.

The ingredients are mixed together, often with a binding agent such as flour or egg, and then baked in a loaf tin until firm and golden. The result is a dense, hearty dish that can be sliced and served in a similar way to a meat roast.

Variations

There are many variations of nut roast, reflecting different culinary traditions and personal tastes. For example, a Mediterranean nut roast might include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese, while a Middle Eastern version could feature dates, apricots, and spices such as cumin and coriander.

Nutritional Value

Nut roasts are high in protein and fibre, and provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly if a variety of nuts are used. They are also typically lower in fat and cholesterol than meat roasts.

History

The origins of the nut roast are unclear, but it is likely that the dish evolved from earlier vegetarian loaves and patties. It became particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s with the rise of the vegetarian and vegan movements.

See Also

• Vegetarian cuisine
• Veganism
• List of meat substitutes

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