Looking For A Vegan Alternative this Holiday Season? Try the Nut Roast

Many of us look forward to this time of year because of all the wonderful dishes served at the holidays. While delectable meat-based dishes like turkey or smoked ham are often the star of the show, our vegetarian and vegan friends may find themselves at odds with most Christmas and Thanksgiving menus. Rarely are dishes catered to their dietary restrictions, so this holiday season we’re offering a simple alternative to appease everyone’s palettes: the nut roast.

Nut roasts may lack familiarity, but once you try one you’ll never forget its incredible flavor. Before you dismiss the idea of this dish in favor of a meaty feast, here is a mouth-watering recipe that will have your holiday guests begging for more. And because we think everyone benefits from a history lesson, here’s the story behind this dish in a nutshell (ba-dum-tss).

The History

The nut roast started gaining traction in Britain during the 20th century as a hearty alternative to a Sunday roast dinner. Now, the nut roast is a beloved vegan or vegetarian option in the United States and Canada. The nut roast reaches its peak popularity around November and December since it’s now regarded as a holiday delicacy.

The Roast

Ready to give this vegetarian and vegan roast a try? You won’t need much prep time for this simple recipe, but you’ll love the tasty results. Just throw the ingredients together, and you’ll have a roast cooking in the oven in no time!

Ingredients

• One and a half cups of nuts, chopped
  • A healthy mix is best for this recipe
• One onion, chopped
• One-quarter cup of vegetable oil
• One cup of breadcrumbs
• One tablespoon of salt
• One tablespoon of pepper
• Two cloves of garlic, crushed

Optional: a cup of sliced dried cranberries, apricots, sliced baby tomatoes, or any fruit you like.

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. While the oven preheats, pour a drizzle of vegetable oil into a medium pan. Once the oil is hot, sautee your chopped onion until soft. Cook time may vary depending on the heat setting and stove.
3. Mix all the ingredients together in an oiled loaf pan. Season to taste.
4. Place the oven-safe dish and mixture into the oven. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness and volume of your mixture.
5. Carefully remove the dish from the oven once the mixture is golden brown. Wait for the nut roast to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

There’s nothing better than a warm nut roast seasoned to perfection, served alongside other holiday favorites. This savory, nutty dish pairs exquisitely with mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, traditional stuffing and more. The possibilities are endless!

Hampton Farms has been the leading supplier of the freshest, best quality peanuts from seed to shelf since 1917. Our business is family-owned and operated, and we are committed to producing the finest nut-based snacks and services with integrity, honesty and the pride of American farmers. If you're looking for a locally grown, nutritious and delicious snack, purchase some Hampton Farms nuts today!