Did you know you can still host a flavor-filled Thanksgiving meal while supporting a longevity lifestyle? This hearty lentil loaf is packed with protein-rich lentils, savory vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a wonderful centerpiece for a plant-based feast.

Ingredients:

For the Lentil Loaf:

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup ground flaxseed mixed with ½ cup water (flax egg)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the Mushroom Gravy:

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Lentils: In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix the Loaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, cooked quinoa, oats, flax egg, nutritional yeast, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
5. Shape the Loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press it down firmly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and slightly browned on top.
7. Prepare the Mushroom Gravy: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until translucent. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re browned. Pour in vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
8. Thicken the Gravy: Stir in the cornstarch mixture, and cook until the gravy thickens. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Serve: Let the lentil loaf cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with mushroom gravy drizzled on top.

Tips:

• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
• For a more festive touch, add chopped walnuts or cranberries to the loaf mixture.