If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and completely plant-based, you’re going to absolutely love this Vegan Nut Roast Recipe. It’s one of my all-time favorites for cozy dinners and holiday meals, packed with the perfect mix of nuts, earthy celeriac, mushrooms, and fragrant herbs. The texture is just right, and the flavor? Oh, it’ll win over even the most skeptical of guests. Stick with me, and I’ll share everything you need to make this standout vegan main that’s both delicious and incredibly satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich in Flavor: The combo of smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and mushrooms gives this nut roast a depth that’s truly irresistible.
  • Perfect Texture: A lovely balance between crunchy nuts and soft roasted celeriac makes every bite interesting.
  • Versatile and Gluten-Free: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets without losing any taste or structure.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: My family goes crazy for this nut roast at holiday dinners—everyone asks for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Vegan Nut Roast Recipe plays a role in layering flavor and texture, from earthy celeriac to the fragrant mix of herbs and tangy miso-balsamic blend. When shopping, look for firm, fresh celeriac and good-quality mixed nuts for the best results.

  • Mixed Nuts: I used hazelnuts, pecans, and Brazil nuts—each brings a unique crunch and flavor. Roasting them intensifies the nuttiness.
  • Celeriac (Celery Root): This gives the roast a creamy, starchy base that’s less sweet than potatoes but beautifully earthy.
  • Olive Oil: Divided for roasting and frying, adds richness without overpowering.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note that elevates the savory profile.
  • Green Lentils: A great plant protein that holds the roast together while keeping it moist.
  • Banana Shallots: Milder and sweeter than regular onions, they soften the dish with gentle sweetness.
  • Garlic Cloves: Essential for savory depth and that comforting aroma.
  • Rosemary, Sage, Thyme: These classic herbs bring warmth and earthiness perfect for a nut roast.
  • Chestnut Mushrooms: Provide umami and texture, especially when browned well.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a slight tang and balances the richness.
  • Dark Miso Paste: A game-changer for depth; it’s like a secret sauce that amps up the savoriness.
  • Dried Cranberries: For a touch of sweet contrast that brightens every bite.
  • Psyllium Husk Powder: Acts as a binder—crucial for structure, especially since this is gluten-free friendly.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps bind ingredients and adds a bit of texture; gluten-free options work beautifully here.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Vegan Nut Roast Recipe is—once you have the basics down, feel free to make it your own! Play with nuts, swap herbs, or add extras to suit your mood or the season.

  • Nut Swaps: I once swapped pecans for walnuts for a slightly different crunch and flavor, and it worked beautifully.
  • Herb Changes: Try adding a bit of sage or thyme if you don’t have rosemary, or even some fresh parsley for freshness.
  • Extra Veggies: Grated carrot or parsnip adds sweetness and moisture if you want to experiment.
  • Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne or chili flakes gives an unexpected kick that my family surprisingly enjoys.

How to Make Vegan Nut Roast Recipe

Step 1: Roast and Prepare the Nuts

Start by preheating your oven to 175° C (345° F). Spread your mixed nuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for about 8-10 minutes until they’re fragrant and toasty. Be careful not to burn them! Once cooled slightly, rub the hazelnuts between your fingers to slip off their skins (it really makes them smoother in the roast). Chop the Brazil nuts into thirds and pecans in halves but leave the hazelnuts whole. Set these aside—you’ll see how much they add to the texture!

Step 2: Roast the Celeriac

Increase your oven temperature to 210° C (410° F). Peel and dice celeriac into 1.5 cm cubes, then toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Roast the celeriac for 30 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. You’ll want to see tender, golden cubes that add a creamy, earthy base to your nut roast.

Step 3: Saute Shallots, Garlic, and Herbs

While the celeriac roasts, heat a heavy pan over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add finely diced banana shallots and a pinch of salt, cooking gently until the shallots are translucent and soft. Then stir in minced garlic and chopped rosemary, sage, and thyme. Cook until fragrant and translucent, but watch closely so the garlic doesn’t burn—this combo infuses the roast with heavenly aromas.

Step 4: Brown the Mushrooms

Remove the shallot-herb mixture from the pan and set aside. Now fry the finely chopped chestnut mushrooms in the same pan in two batches, no need for extra oil. Cook until all the moisture has evaporated and the mushrooms are nicely browned—this step builds tons of umami flavor. Season with a little salt once cooked.

Step 5: Mix Everything and Let it Bind

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted celeriac, chopped nuts, shallot-mushroom mix, drained lentils, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, and psyllium husk powder. Now dilute the dark miso paste in 4 tablespoons of water and stir in the balsamic vinegar. Add this liquid mixture into the bowl and mix everything thoroughly. Let the mix sit for 30 minutes on your countertop—this resting time lets the psyllium husk hydrate and binds all the ingredients together perfectly.

Step 6: Bake Your Nut Roast to Perfection

Grease a 2lb (900g) non-stick cake tin really well. Press the nut roast mixture firmly into the tin, packing it tight so it holds together once baked. Place in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes at 210° C. After 30 minutes, cover the top loosely with kitchen foil to prevent over-browning. When done, your nut roast should be golden, firm to touch, and smell amazing.

Once out of the oven, give it some time to rest before slicing. I find using a serrated knife prevents crumbling and makes for the neatest slices.

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Pro Tips for Making Vegan Nut Roast Recipe

  • Roast Nuts Properly: Don’t skip roasting your nuts—it brings out a deep nuttiness that raw nuts just can’t match.
  • Squeeze Out Mushroom Moisture: Cooking mushrooms in batches without oil helps them brown perfectly without steaming, which is key for flavor.
  • Rest Before Baking: The 30-minute rest allows psyllium husk to absorb moisture, giving your roast excellent structure and sliceability.
  • Use a Serrated Knife for Slicing: It reduces crumbling and keeps your slices nice and clean—trust me, it makes a big difference.

How to Serve Vegan Nut Roast Recipe

A close-up of a dark loaf with a rough and dense texture showing many nuts and lentils inside, sliced to reveal the inside filled with three main layers of mixed brown lentils, light beige nuts, and some yellow pieces, sitting on a beige plate with a slightly speckled surface, with a blurred plate of green Brussels sprouts and orange carrots in the background on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually keep garnishes simple but flavorful—some fresh thyme sprigs or rosemary on top add freshness and a lovely aroma. A drizzle of vegan gravy or a tangy cranberry sauce pairs beautifully as well. I also occasionally add a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts or vegan parmesan for a classy touch.

Side Dishes

This nut roast shines when paired with classic roast vegetables like crispy Brussels sprouts, golden roast potatoes, and glazed carrots. Creamy mashed potatoes (vegan, of course) and a rich vegan gravy make it a perfect comforting meal. I also love serving it with a crisp green salad or sautéed kale for some freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake this Vegan Nut Roast Recipe in decorative loaf tins or even mini cake molds for individual servings. You can also top it with a crunchy breadcrumb and herb crust or swirl in some vegan pesto before baking for a pop of color and flavor. It’s a conversation starter every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover nut roast tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days. It keeps well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just keep it in an airtight container to avoid it drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Slice it after baking (and cooling) into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, I unwrap the slices and pop them on a baking tray in a preheated 180° C (350° F) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps keep the texture excellent—crispy on the outside and soft inside—better than microwaving, which sometimes makes it a bit soggy.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other nuts for this Vegan Nut Roast Recipe?

    Absolutely! Mixed nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews can work great. Just try to keep a balance between harder nuts (like Brazil nuts) that give crunch and softer nuts for a good texture. Roasting whatever nuts you choose will enhance their flavor.

  2. Is psyllium husk powder necessary?

    While you can experiment without it, psyllium husk powder acts as a fantastic binder and keeps the nut roast from crumbling. It’s especially important if you want gluten-free or egg-free binding. You could try flaxseed meal as an alternative, but the texture might differ slightly.

  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

    Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead dish! You can assemble the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly so it doesn’t dry out.

  4. What sides pair best with vegan nut roast?

    Traditional roast veggies, vegan gravy, mashed potatoes, and fresh green sides like salads or steamed greens complement this nut roast beautifully and balance its richness.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Nut Roast Recipe holds a very special place in my kitchen repertoire. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, letting you enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both nourishing and festive. The first time I made it, I was amazed by how something so simple could taste so rich and satisfying—now, it’s my go-to for plant-based gatherings or when I want a comforting, hearty meal. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover just how much you and your loved ones will adore it.

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Vegan Nut Roast Recipe

4.7 from 615 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 12
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Vegan Nut Roast is a hearty and flavorful plant-based dish, perfect as a wholesome alternative to traditional roasts. Packed with a variety of nuts, lentils, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, it offers a delightful texture and rich taste, making it an ideal centerpiece for any festive or family meal. The recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free breadcrumbs, and combines roasting and pan-frying techniques to build layers of flavor.


Ingredients

Nuts and Seeds

  • 120 g / 4.25 oz mixed nuts (hazelnuts, pecans, brazil nuts)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 400 g / 14 oz celeriac (celery root), peeled and diced
  • 2 large banana shallots, finely diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
  • 1 tbsp chopped sage
  • 1 tbsp chopped thyme
  • 300 g / 10.5 oz chestnut mushrooms, finely chopped

Legumes

  • 1 can green lentils (or 250 g / 8.8 oz cooked lentils), drained

Oils, Liquids and Condiments

  • 45 ml / 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 25 ml / 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp dark miso paste

Other Ingredients

  • 45 g / 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 18 g / 2 tbsp psyllium husk powder (or 3 tbsp psyllium husks)
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Roast Nuts: Preheat the oven to 175° C / 345° F (no fan). Spread the mixed nuts on a baking tray and roast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Once cooled, slip the skins off the hazelnuts by rubbing them between your fingers. Chop the brazil nuts into thirds, pecans in half, and leave hazelnuts whole. Set aside.
  2. Roast Celeriac: Increase oven temperature to 210° C / 410° F. Peel and cut the celeriac into 1.5 cm (0.6 inch) cubes. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bake for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through until tender and lightly browned.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a heavy-based pan over medium heat. Add diced shallots and a pinch of salt, frying until almost translucent. Add garlic and chopped rosemary, sage, and thyme, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until fragrant and both garlic and shallots are translucent.
  4. Cook Mushrooms: Remove the shallots and garlic from the pan. Pan-fry the chopped mushrooms in batches without additional oil, allowing them to brown and release moisture completely. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside with shallot mixture.
  5. Prepare Miso-Balsamic Mix: In a small bowl, dilute miso paste with 4 tbsp (¼ cup) water, then stir in the balsamic vinegar to create a flavorful liquid for the mixture.
  6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted celeriac, roasted nuts, shallot-mushroom mix, drained lentils, dried cranberries, breadcrumbs, and psyllium husk powder. Stir thoroughly, then incorporate the miso-balsamic mixture evenly throughout.
  7. Rest the Mixture: Let the combined mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This allows the psyllium husk to bind the ingredients and develop a better texture.
  8. Bake the Nut Roast: Grease a 2 lb (900 g) cake tin well, then press the mixture firmly into it. Bake at 210° C / 410° F for about 60 minutes. After 30 minutes, cover the top loosely with kitchen foil to prevent over-browning. Bake until set and golden on top.
  9. Cool and Slice: Allow the nut roast to cool slightly to settle. Use a serrated knife to cut neat slices. Serve warm, ideally with traditional sides and a rich gravy.

Notes

  • The nut roast is naturally vegan and gluten-free if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used.
  • Using a mix of nuts adds varied texture and flavor—hazelnuts, pecans, and brazil nuts are great choices.
  • Psyllium husk powder acts as a binder, giving the roast structure without eggs.
  • Allowing the mixture to rest before baking helps it firm up for cleaner slices.
  • Covering the roast with foil halfway through baking prevents excessive browning on top.
  • Serve with traditional festive trimmings and your favorite vegan gravy for a complete meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 80 g)
  • Calories: 208
  • Sugar: 5.25 g
  • Sodium: 203 mg
  • Fat: 9.78 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.33 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8.45 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23.14 g
  • Fiber: 8.99 g
  • Protein: 8.92 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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