Name: Vegan Walnut Pate – Faux Gras Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups walnut pieces (raw or toasted); 2 cups water; 5 Tbsp tamari (or to taste); 4 Tbsp lemon juice; 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast; 1 Tbsp agar agar; 3 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1.5 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1-2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)

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Introduction

This vegan walnut pate, also known as faux gras, is a rich and creamy spread perfect for appetizers or snacks. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it offers a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional pâté. Its smoky, savory flavors make it a standout on any cheese board or sandwich.

A close-up of a small piece of toasted bread held by a woman's hand, with three visible layers; the bottom layer is rough, golden-brown toasted bread with a crunchy texture, the middle layer is a smooth, light brown spread evenly covering the bread, and the top layer is a single fresh, bright red tomato slice with visible seeds and moisture, garnished with small pieces of chopped green herbs and coarse salt crystals. The background shows a white marbled surface with a blurred white plate holding more slices of bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups walnut pieces (raw or toasted)
2 cups water
5 Tbsp tamari (or to taste)
4 Tbsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
1 Tbsp agar agar
3 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1.5 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried rosemary
1-2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Add all the ingredients except the olive oil to a powerful blender and puree until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to thicken, taking care to avoid splattering. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 3: Pour the pate mixture into an oiled glass container. Optionally, drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness.
Step 4: Cover the container with a lid and refrigerate for a couple of hours or until completely set.
Step 5: To serve, remove the lid and place a small plate on top of the container. Carefully invert it and tap gently if needed to release the pate. Alternatively, serve directly from the container. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy with crusty bread, tomatoes, or cornichons.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and cooked lentils for a different but tasty pate.
Instead of walnuts, try roasted chestnuts or hazelnuts for a seasonal twist, especially around the holidays.
Omit the olive oil to keep the recipe fully whole-food plant-based and Plantricious compliant.

Storage

Store the walnut pate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently if desired, or enjoy chilled. Always cover to prevent drying out and to keep flavors fresh.

How to Serve

The image shows a slice of brown bread with a thick spread of light tan pâté that has a smooth, slightly crumbly texture. On top of the pâté lies a vibrant red tomato slice with visible seeds and juice, garnished with small green chives and tiny purple lavender buds. In the background, there is a small white plate holding a rounded, smooth block of the same pâté decorated on top with a few green herbs and purple lavender sprigs. A silver knife rests on the plate next to the pâté. The scene is set against a white marbled surface, creating a clean, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw walnuts instead of toasted?

Yes, you can use raw or toasted walnuts. Toasting adds a deeper flavor, but raw walnuts work well and give a slightly milder taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this walnut pate is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten ingredients. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.