Chickpea Meatless Loaf Recipe

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This chickpea meatless loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for those looking for a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf. Packed with vegetables, spices, and chickpeas, it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Topped with a tangy glaze, it’s sure to be a hit at any table. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

For the Loaf:

  • 3 cups chickpeas: Approx. 1 cup dry or 2-15oz cans, drained and rinsed.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups oat flour: Approx. 2 cups rolled oats blended into flour; substitute with any flour to ensure it’s non-GF if needed.
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce: Substitute tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
  • 3 tbsp favorite barbecue sauce
  • 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp each dried rosemary, dried sage, and dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne: Optional, for added spice.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
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For the Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup favorite barbecue sauce
  • 2 tsp tomato paste or ketchup
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Loaf Pan:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Process Chickpeas:
    • In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas until they are coarsely ground, not completely smooth. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Sauté Vegetables:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic with a bit of oil or water until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • To the bowl with the chickpeas, add the sautéed vegetables and all other loaf ingredients. Mix until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little water; if too wet, add a bit more oat flour.
  5. Form Loaf:
    • Press the mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  6. Prepare Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, tomato paste (or ketchup), and paprika for the glaze.
  7. Bake:
    • Spread the glaze evenly over the top of the loaf. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and the top is slightly crispy.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it to firm up and makes slicing easier.

Tips:

  • Note 1: You can make oat flour by blending rolled oats in a food processor or blender until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency.
  • Note 2: Feel free to customize the barbecue sauce to your liking. Spicy, smoky, or sweet barbecue sauces can all add a unique flavor to the loaf.

This chickpea meatless loaf is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious, plant-based feast!