Orange Goodness Lentil Loaf with Sweet Beet Sauce

Orange Goodness Lentil Loaf

i made this recipe up, combining lots of lovely orange colored ingredients.

makes 2 loaves, serving 6 hungry gnomes and 2 hungry ogres

• 3 onions
• 5 cloves garlic
• olive oil
• 3 large carrots, shredded
• 2 medium kumara or yams, shredded
• 3 cups red lentils
• 4 cups water
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 c. + 1/4 c. breadcrumbs
• dill, coriander, mixed herbs, salt, pepper

Saute the onions for a few minutes in olive oil, then add the garlic.  When the onions are translucent, add the carrots and kumara/ yams and cook covered for ~10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to wilt.  Add lentils, water, and spices; bring to a boil; then reduce to a simmer.  Stir occasionally to mix the lentils into the veggies and cook until the water is absorbed and the lentils are soft and falling apart.  Mix 1/4 c. bread crumbs and 2 beaten eggs into the veggie mix, spoon into 2 greased loaf pans, and bake at 175 C/ 350 F for ~30 minutes.

Sweet Beet Sauce

in a fit of culinary inspiration, i threw together this sweet beet sauce to accompany the lentil loaves.  this made just enough for 8 hungry gnomes and ogres.

• 1 can beetroot
• 1-2 tsp. white vinegar
• 2 tbs. tomato puree, paste, or ketchup
• allspice, garlic powder, chili powder

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve chilled or warm.