Cashew Meat Loaf
A hearty vegan meatloaf combining cashews, mushrooms, and noodles, rich in umami flavors and perfect for a comforting, plant-based main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Omit olive oil if desired.
- Prepare the ingredients by dicing the onion and celery, and draining the canned mushrooms and soyameat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced onion, celery, mushrooms, soyameat, cashews, Chinese noodles, chicken seasoning, and mushroom soup.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased loaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45 minutes, until heated through and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using toasted cashews for a deeper nutty taste. If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute Chinese noodles with rice noodles or omit them entirely. You can also swap the soyameat for lentils or cooked quinoa for a different texture. If you’re looking for a lighter dish, try using less mushroom soup or a lower-fat version.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve the cashew meat loaf warm, paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken In Tomato Sauce With Mini Matzoh Balls for a complete dinner. Consider adding a dollop of your favorite sauce or chutney on top for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cashew Meat Loaf contains roughly 1589 calories, with 27g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 129g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1317mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based mushroom soup and ensuring the soyameat is vegan-friendly. Additionally, you might consider adding more vegetables to enhance the texture and nutrition.
What can I use instead of Chinese noodles?
If you cannot find Chinese noodles, you can substitute them with any pasta of your choice, such as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Alternatively, rice or quinoa can be used for a different texture.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The cashew meat loaf is done when it is heated through and has a golden top. You can also use a food thermometer; it should register at least 165°F (74°C) in the center. Allow it to cool slightly for easier slicing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).