How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the loaf mixture a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake it fresh on the day of serving.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I substitute the glaze ingredients?

For a different flavor, try a cranberry glaze made with cranberry juice and orange zest.

What can I use instead of za’atar?

If za’atar is unavailable, use a mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.

Middle Eastern Za'atar Spiced Lentil Loaf with Pomegranate Glaze

Name: Middle Eastern Za'atar Spiced Lentil Loaf with Pomegranate Glaze
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Green or brown lentils; Vegetable broth; Olive oil; Onion; Garlic; Carrot; Cumin; Coriander; Za'atar; Tomato paste; Breadcrumbs; Ground flaxseeds mixture; Pomegranate juice; Honey or maple syrup; Balsamic vinegar; Salt; Fresh parsley; Pomegranate seeds

A flavorful and aromatic vegetarian main course

This za'atar-spiced lentil loaf is packed with Middle Eastern flavors, complemented by a tangy pomegranate glaze for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lentil Loaf

Green or brown lentils

1 cup, rinsed and drained

Vegetable broth

3 cups

Olive oil

1 tablespoon

Onion

1 large, finely chopped

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Carrot

1, grated

Cumin

1 teaspoon

Coriander

1 teaspoon

Za'atar

2 tablespoons

Tomato paste

1 tablespoon

Breadcrumbs

1 cup

Ground flaxseeds mixture

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water

For the Pomegranate Glaze

Pomegranate juice

1 cup

Honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoons

Balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon

Salt

Pinch

For the Garnishes

Fresh parsley

chopped

Pomegranate seeds

Preparation

Cooking the Lentils

Combine Lentils and Broth

In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.

Drain and Cool

Drain the lentils and let them cool.

Preparing the Loaf Mixture

Sauté Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.

Add Spices and Carrot

Add carrots, cumin, coriander, and za'atar. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables, cooked lentils, tomato paste, breadcrumbs, and flaxseed mixture. Mix well.

Important Tips

Ensure all liquid is drained from the lentils to prevent a soggy loaf.

Use freshly ground spices for enhanced flavor.

Cooking Process

Forming the Loaf

Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet or press into a loaf pan.

Preparing the Glaze

In a small saucepan, simmer all glaze ingredients over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.

Baking the Loaf

Bake the loaf in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes, brushing with glaze every 15 minutes.

Glazing Time

Glazing takes about 10 minutes.

Heat Settings

Use medium heat for glaze preparation and bake at 375°F (190°C).

Plating & Serving