Description
This Vegan Holiday Roast is the ultimate plant-based centerpiece for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. Made with protein-rich lentils, flavorful herbs, and a caramelized glaze, this hearty and satisfying roast has a deliciously crisp outer layer and a tender, meaty texture. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a festive meat-free main dish!
Ingredients
For the Roast:
- 2 cups cooked lentils (or chickpeas)
 - 1 ½ cups vital wheat gluten
 - ½ cup breadcrumbs
 - ½ cup vegetable broth
 - ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
 - ¼ cup nutritional yeast
 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
 - 1 tbsp olive oil
 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
 - 1 tsp dried thyme
 - 1 tsp dried rosemary
 - ½ tsp black pepper
 - ½ tsp salt
 
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
 - 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
 
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Sauté onion & garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the onion and garlic until soft.
3️⃣ Blend lentils: In a food processor, blend lentils (or chickpeas) until slightly mashed. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
4️⃣ Mix ingredients: Add sautéed onion and garlic, then mix in wheat gluten, breadcrumbs, vegetable broth, soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and seasonings.
5️⃣ Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until firm and elastic. Shape into a loaf or roast.
6️⃣ Wrap & bake: Wrap the roast in parchment paper and aluminum foil, sealing the ends. Bake for 45 minutes.
7️⃣ Glaze & finish: Remove foil, brush with glaze, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, brushing with glaze every 5 minutes for a caramelized crust.
8️⃣ Rest & serve: Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with holiday sides.
- Prep Time: 15min
 - Cook Time: 60min
 - Category: Main Course
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American