Curried Nut Roast

Curried Nut Roast Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Ireland

Region / culture: Ireland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Curried Nut Roast is a delicious and flavorful vegetarian dish that is perfect for a hearty meal. Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is a great alternative to traditional meat-based roasts. The combination of nuts, vegetables, and spices creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile that will impress even the most discerning of palates.

History

The origins of Curried Nut Roast can be traced back to the vegetarian movement of the 19th century. As more people began to adopt vegetarian diets for health, ethical, and environmental reasons, chefs and home cooks alike began experimenting with new and innovative ways to create satisfying meat-free dishes. The combination of nuts and curry spices in this recipe is a nod to the rich culinary traditions of India, where vegetarian cuisine has been celebrated for centuries.

Ingredients

225 g of finely chopped nuts (hazel, Brazil or walnuts)
225 g of peeled and chopped tomatoes
2 finely chopped medium onions
1 finely chopped medium green pepper
75 g of wholemeal breadcrumbs
1 clove of crushed garlic
1 tsp of dried mixed herbs
1 tbsp of mild curry powder
1 beaten egg
salt and pepper to taste
cooking oil

How to prepare

Fry the onion and pepper in a pan for 10 minutes or until they become soft. In a large bowl, combine the nuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, curry powder, and seasoning. Mix everything well. Add the cooked onions, pepper, and tomatoes. Then, add the beaten egg to bind the mixture together. Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf tin and bake it at 220°C for 40 minutes.

Variations

Substitute the walnuts with almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different flavor profile.
Add raisins or dried cranberries to the mixture for a touch of sweetness.
Experiment with different curry powders or spice blends to customize the flavor of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the nuts and vegetables to ensure even cooking and a uniform texture.

- Be sure to season the mixture well with salt, pepper, and curry powder to enhance the flavors of the dish.

- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.

- Serve the Curried Nut Roast with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Curried Nut Roast with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to finely chop the nuts and vegetables to ensure even cooking and a uniform texture.

- Bake the Curried Nut Roast in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the walnuts with almonds, cashews, or pecans.

- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the dish.

- Substitute the egg with a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

The Curried Nut Roast can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

- You can also freeze the unbaked mixture in a loaf tin for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Curried Nut Roast with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color. - Serve the dish on a platter with a drizzle of yogurt or tahini sauce for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Curried Nut Roast with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.

- Pair the dish with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat the Curried Nut Roast in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 8g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains nuts and eggs

Summary

Curried Nut Roast is a nutrient-dense dish that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Summary

Curried Nut Roast is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a hearty meal. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. I had always been fascinated by the flavors and aromas of the dishes my mother and grandmother would cook, and I was eager to learn how to recreate them myself.

One day, while rummaging through an old chest of my grandmother's belongings, I stumbled upon a tattered old cookbook. It was filled with yellowed pages and handwritten notes, each one detailing a different recipe. As I flipped through the pages, one recipe in particular caught my eye - Curried Nut Roast.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of nuts, spices, and curry intrigued me. I knew I had to try it. I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled knowingly, telling me it was a special dish that had been passed down through generations in our family.

She sat me down at the kitchen table and guided me through the steps, showing me how to toast the nuts, mix the spices, and simmer it all together until it formed a rich, fragrant sauce. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

As we sat down to eat the Curried Nut Roast that evening, I was blown away by the flavors. The creamy coconut milk paired perfectly with the crunchy nuts, and the warm spices danced on my tongue. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had found a new favorite.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added more curry powder for a spicier kick, or swapped out the cashews for almonds for a nuttier flavor. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that first day I had discovered it in my grandmother's old cookbook.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed the recipe down to my own children, just as my grandmother had done for me. It became a staple in our household, a dish we would make on special occasions or just when we were craving something comforting and delicious.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar aromas of spices and nuts, I can't help but feel grateful for that moment so many years ago when I stumbled upon the recipe for Curried Nut Roast. It has brought me joy, comfort, and a connection to my past that I will always cherish. And as I take a bite of the dish now, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.