Name: Vegan Bologna: 5 Delicious Ways to Enjoy Meatless Deli Slices
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2/3 cup dried red lentils; 1/3 cup cashews; 2 1/3 cups water (divided); 1-inch piece beetroot; 1 Tbsp tomato paste; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp white pepper; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice); 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos); 1 Tbsp olive brine; 2 tsp agar agar powder

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Vegan Bologna is a delicious and versatile option for anyone looking to enjoy meatless deli slices. This homemade vegan bologna recipe is made with wholesome ingredients, ensuring that you can indulge in a hearty meal without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Perfect for sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or simply as a snack, this plant-based bologna is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Let’s dive into the world of vegan deli meat and learn how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Bologna

This recipe for Vegan Bologna stands out for several reasons. First, it’s a fantastic vegetarian bologna alternative that captures the essence of traditional deli meats without any animal products. It’s not only a non-meat bologna substitute but also gluten-free and oil-free, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions. Additionally, the use of red lentils and cashews provides a rich source of protein, contributing to its nutritional benefits. You’ll love how quickly and easily you can whip up this homemade vegan bologna recipe, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it tastes amazing in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads!

Ingredients for Vegan Bologna

Gather these items:

2/3 cup dried red lentils
1/3 cup cashews
2 1/3 cups water (divided)
1-inch piece beetroot
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp white pepper
1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/2 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos)
1 Tbsp olive brine
2 tsp agar agar powder

How to Make Vegan Bologna Step-by-Step

Step 1: Thoroughly rinse (and remove debris), then soak the lentils and cashews for at least 2 hours. Drain well. If you forget to soak the cashews, simply boil them for a few minutes to soften them.

Step 2: Blend the lentils, cashews, beetroot, and 1 cup (240 ml) water until silky smooth. Pause to scrape down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Transfer to a saucepan, add another 1 cup (240 ml) water and simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally.
Step 4: Meanwhile, stir in the spices, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, tomato paste, and olive brine, whisking well.
Step 5: Add 2 tsp agar-agar powder and 1/3 cup (80 ml) water to the blender (no need to rinse it first) and blend for a few seconds.
Step 6: Transfer it to the saucepan, increase the heat, and cook for 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Transfer to a wide-rimmed glass jar or measuring cup (empty cans, yogurt containers, or empty milk carton -for a square shape- work, too). To help it release easily, optionally oil the mold first (it’s not necessary though).
Step 8: Refrigerate the vegan bologna sausage for 2 hours to fully set. Then remove from the mold, slice with a sharp knife or mandoline, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Bologna

Keep these in mind:

Soaking lentils and cashews helps achieve a smoother texture.

Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
Experiment with different spices to customize your vegan bologna.
This dish is a great vegan cold cut option for sandwiches and charcuterie boards.

Best Ways to Serve Vegan Bologna

This delicious meatless bologna can be served in numerous ways. Here are a few ideas:

Make a hearty vegan bologna sandwich with fresh veggies and your favorite spread.

Serve it on a charcuterie board alongside nuts and fruits for a delightful appetizer.
Use it as a filling for wraps or salads, enhancing the flavor and texture of your dish.

How to Store and Reheat Vegan Bologna

Once your Vegan Bologna has set, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply slice and use as needed. To reheat, lightly sauté the slices in a pan or microwave them for a few seconds. This makes meal prep easy and keeps your meals fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Bologna

What’s the secret to perfect Vegan Bologna?

The key to perfect homemade vegan bologna lies in blending the ingredients until silky smooth and ensuring proper seasoning. This enhances the flavors, making it a truly satisfying meal.

Can I make Vegan Bologna ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy vegan bologna recipe can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vegan Bologna?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you soak your lentils and cashews adequately and blend thoroughly. This will prevent graininess in your final product.

Variations of Vegan Bologna You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your ideal plant-based bologna. Here are some variations:

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Incorporate smoked tofu for a different texture and flavor profile.
Adjust the spices based on your preferences to create your unique blend.

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For more information on the health benefits of lentils, check out this Healthline article.