How to Make a Tasty Meatloaf Without the Meat

A Vegetarian Twist on a Classic Recipe

During World War I, nut loaf recipes gained popularity in the United States as a response to meat scarcity. The trend continued during World War II when food was rationed. The concept of a vegetarian dish that is meaty might seem like an oxymoron, but try this recipe and you might be surprised.

Meaty Nut Loaf

Ingredients

* 11⁄2 cups walnuts
* 1⁄2 cup unsalted cashews or almonds
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
* 2 teaspoons minced garlic
* 11⁄2 cups cooked brown rice (it works with white, but brown is tastier)
* 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
* 1 tablespoon fresh marjoram (chopped)
* 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
* 1 teaspoon fresh sage leaves (chopped)
* 4 eggs (lightly beaten)
* 8 ounces Gruyere cheese (grated)
* 1 cup cottage cheese
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-inch loaf pan (you can use shortening, cooking oil, or butter). A round 9-inch springform pan works well, also. Set aside.
2. Toast walnuts and cashews on a baking sheet until lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Do not burn. Let cool. Finely chop and set aside (I use a blender to chop the nuts). Increase oven temperature to 375 degrees.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook until translucent, about three minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and add toasted nuts, rice, parsley, marjoram, thyme, sage, eggs, Gruyere, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour mixture into prepared pan, cover with foil, and bake until golden brown and firm to the touch, about 50 to 55 minutes. Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, and your favorite side dishes.

Conclusion

This meatloaf recipe without the meat is a game-changer for vegetarians and those looking for a meat-free option. The combination of nuts, rice, and cheese creates a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and try different spices or herbs to make the recipe your own.

FAQs

* Q: Can I use other types of nuts instead of walnuts and cashews?
A: Yes, you can use other types of nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. Just be sure to toast them before using.
* Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs and checking the ingredients of the cheese and eggs to ensure they are gluten-free.
* Q: Can I serve this dish hot or cold?
A: Both! This meatloaf recipe is delicious when served hot or cold. You can also serve it as a sandwich filling or as a snack on its own.