The festive season calls for comforting, hearty dishes that bring everyone together, and nothing says Christmas quite like a classic nut roast. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add a wholesome centerpiece to your holiday table, this best vegan Christmas nut roast recipe is sure to impress.
Packed with a rich combination of nuts, vegetables, and herbs, it delivers a delightful texture and deep savory flavors that rival any traditional roast.
This recipe offers a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and simple to prepare. It’s not only nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser that can accommodate various dietary preferences.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with all your festive sides and gravy. So, get ready to wow your guests with this delicious, plant-based centerpiece that embodies the spirit of Christmas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This nut roast is a celebration of textures and flavors, making it the ultimate vegan holiday dish. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich in Plant-Based Protein: The blend of nuts and lentils ensures a satisfying meal that keeps you full and energized.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: You can swap nuts or add your favorite herbs and spices to tailor it to your taste.
- Perfect for Entertaining: It slices beautifully and looks stunning on any Christmas table.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead and freeze for stress-free holiday cooking.
Ingredients
- 150g mixed nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds)
- 100g cooked green or brown lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 100g chestnuts, chopped (optional but festive!)
- 75g breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 100ml vegetable stock
Equipment
- Food processor (for chopping nuts and mixing)
- Mixing bowls
- Loaf tin (approximately 20cm x 10cm)
- Frying pan
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking paper or non-stick spray
Instructions
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir and let it sit for 10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your loaf tin with olive oil or line it with baking paper.
- Toast the nuts: In a dry frying pan over medium heat, lightly toast the mixed nuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Allow to cool slightly.
- Chop the nuts: Place the toasted nuts in a food processor and pulse a few times until roughly chopped — not too fine, you want some texture.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in the frying pan, add the onion and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the grated carrot and chopped chestnuts, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, tomato puree, soy sauce, herbs, smoked paprika, flax egg, and vegetable stock. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Combine well: Stir everything together until it holds together when pressed. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash more stock.
- Transfer to loaf tin: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and slice: Let the nut roast cool for at least 15 minutes before removing from the tin and slicing. This helps it set and slice cleanly.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra festive touch, try adding dried cranberries or chopped apricots to the mix for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.”
- Nut choices: Use any nuts you prefer such as pecans or hazelnuts. Keep a mix for texture.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
- Herb variations: Swap thyme and rosemary for sage or marjoram to change the flavor profile.
- Make ahead: The nut roast freezes well before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Serving tip: Add a homemade mushroom gravy or vegan cranberry sauce to enhance flavors.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan nut roast pairs beautifully with the classics and some modern twists alike. Serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich vegan gravy for a traditional feel.
For a fresh contrast, a vibrant winter salad with pomegranate seeds or a tangy cranberry sauce adds a lovely pop of color and flavor. Don’t forget a side of warm crusty bread or vegan stuffing to round out the meal.
Looking for more festive recipes? Try our Lump Of Coal Recipe for a sweet treat after your feast, or bake a delicious Marzipan Challah Recipe to accompany your dinner.
For the perfect dough to start your holiday baking, check out our Magic Dough Recipe.
Conclusion
This vegan Christmas nut roast is a fantastic addition to your holiday menu, offering a delicious, nourishing alternative to traditional roasts. Its combination of nuts, lentils, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both satisfying and festive, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
By making this recipe, you contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate holiday meal without compromising on flavor or presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or exploring plant-based options for the first time, this nut roast is a comforting, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that embodies the warmth and joy of Christmas.
Don’t forget to explore more holiday favorites on our site to keep your festive spirit alive all season long!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Christmas Nut Roast
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan nut roast perfect for the holiday season. Packed with nuts, vegetables, and herbs for a festive centerpiece.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT80M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews), chopped
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked green lentils
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine nuts, rice, carrot, lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, flaxseed mixture, soy sauce, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until ingredients are evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into a greased loaf tin.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until firm and golden on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 28 g
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