Name: Vegan Roast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486883H5M3S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice; 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms; 1/2 cup grated carrot; 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or walnuts (optional, for texture); 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water; Optional: Vegan gravy or cranberry sauce for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan Roast combines the richness of savory vegetables, hearty grains, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect plant-based alternative to meat roasts. It’s customizable, full of umami flavor, and can easily be served with your favorite sides or a rich gravy. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to reduce your meat consumption, this roast will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup sunflower seeds or walnuts (optional, for texture)
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
Optional: Vegan gravy or cranberry sauce for serving

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the grated carrots, soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, quinoa (or rice), and the vegetable mixture from the skillet. Add the breadcrumbs, sunflower seeds or walnuts (if using), and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Lightly oil a loaf pan or baking dish, then transfer the mixture into the pan, pressing it down firmly to shape it into a loaf.
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Let the roast cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and vegan gravy or cranberry sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes approximately 1 hour from start to finish.

Variations

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
Use a combination of different grains such as farro or bulgur for variety.
Swap the breadcrumbs for ground oats or ground almonds for a gluten-free version.
For a smoky flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the mixture.
Try adding vegan cheese into the center of the roast for a cheesy surprise.
For a more festive touch, top with roasted nuts or caramelized onions.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a tangy salad to complete the meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain its texture.
You can also freeze the roast for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make this Vegan Roast ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roast up to the point of baking. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of bean instead of lentils?

Yes, chickpeas or black beans can work well as a substitute for lentils in this recipe.

Is this roast gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats in place of regular breadcrumbs, the roast will be gluten-free.

What can I use instead of quinoa or rice?

You can substitute other grains like bulgur, farro, or couscous, depending on what you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the nuts and add extra breadcrumbs or seeds to maintain the texture.

How do I serve this roast?

It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a vegan gravy or cranberry sauce for extra flavor.

Can I freeze this Vegan Roast?

Yes, it freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Can I add more spices or herbs to the roast?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. Garlic powder, sage, and parsley are all great additions.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, if you need a soy-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos for a similar savory taste.

How do I know when the roast is done?

The roast should be golden brown on top and slightly crispy around the edges. You can insert a knife to check that it’s firm and heated through.

Conclusion

This Vegan Roast is a perfect plant-based centerpiece that’s full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast, a special occasion, or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. With its customizable ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary preferences.

Vegan Roast

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

The Vegan Roast is a hearty, savory main dish that brings all the comforting flavors of a traditional roast without the use of animal products. Made with plant-based ingredients, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and filling plant-based centerpiece.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: undefined
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Vegan

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the grated carrots, soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, quinoa (or rice), and the vegetable mixture from the skillet. Add the breadcrumbs, sunflower seeds or walnuts (if using), and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Lightly oil a loaf pan or baking dish, then transfer the mixture into the pan, pressing it down firmly to shape it into a loaf.
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Let the roast cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and vegan gravy or cranberry sauce.

Notes

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
Use a combination of different grains such as farro or bulgur for variety.
Swap the breadcrumbs for ground oats or ground almonds for a gluten-free version.
For a smoky flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the mixture.
Try adding vegan cheese into the center of the roast for a cheesy surprise.
For a more festive touch, top with roasted nuts or caramelized onions.
Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a tangy salad to complete the meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 230
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg