If you’re on the hunt for the best vegan nut roast recipe in the UK, look no further! This classic British dish has been given a delicious plant-based makeover that’s perfect for festive occasions or a comforting family dinner.
Nut roast is traditionally known for its hearty texture and rich, nutty flavors, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any vegan feast. Our recipe combines a variety of nuts, fresh herbs, and vegetables to create a moist, flavour-packed roast that even meat-eaters will adore.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this nut roast is simple to prepare and bursting with wholesome ingredients. It’s an excellent way to showcase the versatility of plant-based foods, and it pairs wonderfully with all the traditional trimmings, from roasted potatoes to vegan gravy.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your guests with this comforting and nourishing dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This nut roast ticks all the boxes for a satisfying vegan main course. Packed with protein and fibre from a medley of nuts and lentils, it’s both filling and nutritious.
The blend of fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables infuse the roast with layers of flavour without the need for any animal products.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out nuts depending on what you have on hand, or add your favourite spices for a personal twist.
It also freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days or holiday celebrations.
Plus, it’s a wonderful conversation starter at the dinner table — a delicious way to show that vegan food can be just as hearty and indulgent as any traditional roast!
Ingredients
- 150g mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts are ideal)
- 100g cooked brown lentils (or canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 100g chestnut mushrooms, finely chopped
- 100g cooked quinoa (for binding and texture)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 50g fresh breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Equipment
- Food processor or nut grinder
- Large frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf tin (approx. 900g capacity)
- Baking parchment
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula and wooden spoon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Grease a loaf tin and line it with baking parchment for easy removal.
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Toast the nuts: In a dry frying pan over medium heat, lightly toast the mixed nuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Allow to cool slightly, then pulse in a food processor until roughly chopped (not too fine; some texture is good).
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the grated carrot and mushrooms, and cook for another 5 minutes until soft and most moisture has evaporated.
- Combine the mixture: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked lentils, quinoa, chopped nuts, tomato purée, soy sauce, dried herbs (thyme, sage, paprika), breadcrumbs, and the flax egg. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly: Using your hands or a spoon, mix all ingredients until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed; if it feels too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable stock. Too wet? Add more breadcrumbs.
- Transfer to the tin: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
- Cool and serve: Allow the nut roast to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before turning out. Garnish with fresh parsley and slice to serve.
Tips & Variations
“For a richer flavour, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. You can also swap the quinoa for cooked rice or bulgur wheat, depending on your preference.”
Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or pine nuts if you like. If you prefer a smokier roast, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt.
For a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs or substitute with ground oats.
Leftovers make excellent sandwich fillings or can be crumbled and added to salads for extra texture and protein. You can even make mini nut roast muffins for party snacks!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of loaf) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 11g |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
Fat | 17g |
Fiber | 7g |
Sugar | 4g |
Sodium | 350mg |
Serving Suggestions
This nut roast is a stellar main dish that pairs beautifully with traditional British sides. Serve it alongside crispy roast potatoes, steamed green beans, and a generous ladle of vegan gravy for the ultimate comfort meal.
For a festive spread, add roasted parsnips and Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and garlic. A crisp, tangy cranberry sauce also complements the nutty flavours perfectly.
If you want to make it more substantial, try serving slices with creamy mashed potatoes made from cauliflower or sweet potato.
Looking for more vegan inspiration? Check out these delicious recipes: Julie Marie Eats Recipes, Leche De Pantera Recipe, and Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes.
Conclusion
Our best vegan nut roast recipe UK is a fantastic way to bring hearty, delicious flavour to your plant-based meals. With a perfect balance of crunchy nuts, tender lentils, and fresh herbs, this roast is an impressive yet simple dish that will satisfy vegans and non-vegans alike.
It’s perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve something wholesome and comforting.
Don’t be intimidated by nut roasts — this recipe is straightforward and adaptable to your pantry staples. Plus, it freezes well, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore more hearty vegan dishes on our site? Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Nut Roast Recipe UK
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan nut roast perfect for festive occasions or a comforting meal. Packed with nuts, vegetables, and herbs for a delicious plant-based centerpiece.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT80M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 150g mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews), roughly chopped
- 100g chestnut mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100g cooked brown lentils
- 100g cooked quinoa
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 50g breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine nuts, cooked lentils, quinoa, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, tomato purée, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the flax egg and mix well until the mixture binds together.
- Transfer mixture to a lined loaf tin and press down firmly.
- Bake for 60 minutes until golden and firm.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 25 g
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