"Meatless" Loaf

When we think of comfort food, meatloaf and mashed potatoes come to mind. Eat this meal at the table with your family and savor every moment!

2 c rolled oats, divided

2 cloves garlic, minced (2 t), divided

1 bay leaf

1 T canola oil

1 c onion, chopped

1 T herbes de Provence (can substitute Italian seasoning, fine herbs or 2 t poultry seasoning)

1 - 15 oz can diced tomatoes

1 - 8 oz package tempeh

3/4 t white vinegar

3/4 t Vegan cane sugar

3/4 t baking powder

1 - 1/2 c prepared marinara or barbecue sauce

In a saucepan, bring 1-1/2 c rolled oats, 1 t garlic, bay leaf and 1 c water to a boil. Reduce heat, simmer and cook for approximately 10 minutes (stir occasionally). Remove from heat, remove bay leaf and set aside.

In a large frying pan, heat canola oil. Add onion and saute for 3-5 minutes. Add herbes de Provence and remaining 1 t garlic, saute for another minute. Add diced tomatoes in their juice. Crumble tempeh into mixture, stir in vinegar and sugar. Add fresh cracked black pepper to taste. Turn off heat and let cool.

In a food processor or blender, add tempeh mixture, cooked rolled oats mixture and blend until well combined. Add remaining 1-1/2 c rolled oats and baking powder. Pulse just until mixed, do not over mix!

In an oiled loaf pan, spread mixture, pour marinara or barbecue sauce over the top. In a 350 degree oven, bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour or until the top begins to brown and sauce is hot and bubbly.

*Whip up a batch of our Savory Mashed Potatoes, "Guiltless" Gravy, your favorite vegetable and enjoy a feast with your family!