Wheat Loaf (no-meat Meat Loaf)

Tahitian Wheat Loaf Recipe | No-Meat Meat Loaf with Walnuts and Cheddar

Region / culture: Tahiti | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Wheat Loaf recipe is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meat loaf. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The combination of raw walnuts, wheat germ, and cheddar cheese creates a hearty and flavorful loaf that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

The idea of a meatless meat loaf has been around for decades, with various recipes and variations popping up in cookbooks and kitchens across the world. This particular recipe puts a unique twist on the classic dish by using raw walnuts and wheat germ as the main ingredients, giving it a rich and nutty flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup finely ground raw walnuts (not toasted)
1 cup raw wheat germ
1 cup grated mild cheddar cheese
0.75 cup tomato juice
2 eggs, well beaten
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 tsp thyme
0.25 tsp marjoram
0.5 tsp oregano
0.5 tsp basil
salt and pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a bowl, combine the nuts, wheat germ, and cheese.
Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
Transfer the mixture into a well-oiled loaf pan.
Bake for 45 minutes.
During the last 5 minutes of baking, glaze the loaf with fruit-sweetened ketchup.
Allow the loaf to sit in the pan for 5-10 minutes to firm up before removing.
Serve the loaf with your favorite sides, just like a traditional meat loaf.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or feta for a unique twist.
Substitute the tomato juice with vegetable broth for a lighter version of the loaf.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the onion to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.

- Be sure to use raw walnuts for this recipe, as toasted walnuts may alter the flavor and texture of the loaf.

- For a crispy crust, you can broil the loaf for a few minutes after baking.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Wheat Loaf with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique for this Wheat Loaf recipe, ensuring that the loaf is cooked through and firm.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat germ on hand, you can substitute it with breadcrumbs or rolled oats for a similar texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the loaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Wheat Loaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Wheat Loaf with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea for a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Wheat Loaf recipe contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Wheat Loaf recipe contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of this Wheat Loaf contains around 20 grams of fat, primarily from the walnuts and cheese.

Proteins

With a generous amount of walnuts and cheese, this recipe provides about 15 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This Wheat Loaf is a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium from the walnuts and cheese.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and dairy (cheese), so it may not be suitable for those with nut or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Wheat Loaf recipe is a balanced and nutritious dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Wheat Loaf recipe is a wholesome and flavorful dish that is perfect for a meatless meal option. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this loaf is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small town. My family didn't have much money, so my mom always had to get creative with our meals. One day, she came across a recipe for a no-meat meatloaf made with wheat and veggies. She was so excited to try it out, and I remember watching her in the kitchen, eager to learn how to make it myself.

As I grew older, I began to experiment more in the kitchen, trying out new recipes and putting my own twist on old favorites. The wheat loaf quickly became a staple in our household, loved by all who tried it. I would often make a big batch and bring it to family gatherings, where it was always a hit.

But the real magic happened when I met Mrs. Johnson, an elderly woman who lived down the street from us. Mrs. Johnson was known in the neighborhood for her delicious homemade bread and pastries. One day, I mustered up the courage to ask her if she would be willing to teach me how to make her famous wheat loaf. To my surprise, she agreed.

Mrs. Johnson invited me into her cozy kitchen, where the smell of warm bread filled the air. She showed me step by step how to make the wheat loaf, explaining the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking your time to let the flavors develop. I was in awe of her knowledge and skill, and I soaked up every bit of information she shared with me.

Over the next few weeks, I would visit Mrs. Johnson regularly, learning all I could about baking and cooking. She taught me how to knead dough, how to tell when bread was done baking, and even shared some of her own secret recipes with me. I felt like I had found a kindred spirit in Mrs. Johnson, and I treasured our time together in the kitchen.

Eventually, I mastered the art of making the wheat loaf, much to the delight of my family and friends. The recipe became a symbol of my bond with Mrs. Johnson, a reminder of the time we spent together sharing stories and laughter over a warm loaf of bread. I would often think of her as I baked, grateful for her guidance and friendship.

As the years passed, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different combinations of herbs and spices. The wheat loaf became a signature dish of mine, a dish that I was known for among my loved ones. Every time I made it, I felt a connection to Mrs. Johnson, a reminder of the lessons she had taught me and the memories we had shared.

Today, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of wheat loaf for dinner, I can't help but think of Mrs. Johnson and the impact she had on my life. Her generosity and knowledge have shaped me into the cook I am today, and for that, I will be forever grateful. The aroma of the baking bread fills the air, bringing back memories of laughter and love shared over a simple loaf of wheat. And as I take a bite of the warm, savory bread, I know that Mrs. Johnson's legacy will live on in every delicious bite.