Vine and Dine: Blue Plate Special Wheat-Meat Loaf from American Vegan Kitchen

Yet another edition of Vine and Dine! It feels like this one came out of nowhere. I’ve got a feeling that I’m not the only one who felt that way. By request, the book we’re featuring is American Vegan Kitchen! When it was suggested, I was both flattered and a wee bit uncomfortable. I decided the best way to go with it was to treat myself as I had other authors who graciously gave feedback on what wine they would choose with the meal. In this case, the dinner is the Blue Plate Special Wheat-Meat Loaf. Next up will the Tempeh Stroganoff-Stuffed Potatoes (June 18th) so be sure to check back. Let’s get to it!

 Liz’s version

First up, is Liz. Amazingly, this is one dish she didn’t hit in testing for the book. For one of  her side dishes, Liz made proper British roasted potatoes which make my mouth water every time they come up in conversation. (It’s surprisingly often, if you’re wondering.) With the leeks, Liz’s dish looks like the perfect blend of British and American, made all the better by Matthew’s wine choice. Don’t miss it!

 Vegan Aide’s version

Next up, is Vegan Aide.  Unlike some of our Vine and Dines, this one was kid-approved. Why not, with mashed potatoes and gravy? For the wine, they went with an old favorite from Frey Vineyards. Or should I say “favorites”? Read more at Weekly Vegan Menu.

In2insight shifted up the recipe which really impresses me. How many of us really cook the recipe by the book? It’s always fun to improvise and use what you have on-hand. His creation sounds wonderful and I would love to be a guest at his table. Then again, he had me at roasted potatoes and that spinach side. Two of my all-time favorites. Be sure to see his write-up on the meal here. 

 
In2Insight’s version

As a match for this hearty meal, here’s Jim.

We’d opt for 2008 L’Ecole 41 Merlot $26.00 +- in Ohio


L’Ecole 41 Columbia Valley, Washington. Now it’s no big secret that we like Washington State wines.  They bring the American style of a blended Napa and Sonoma and when done well introduce an almost Bordeaux character. They are generally priced well and almost always delightful, especially those that are not mass-produced.  L’Ecole 41, when not grown on their estate, sources from vineyards that are in the 30-year old range. Older vines, better wines. This wine, which we’ve enjoyed on several occasions would  be a good match with it’s smooth, round velvet tannins, black cherry and dark berries flavors, surrounded by an almost Christmas spice lingering aftertaste.  This is not an overwhelming merlot, but tastes like a comfort wine, making it a good match for this very comforting dish. 

It’s taken me a while to come to this conclusion, but after Tempeh Stroganoff-Stuffed Potatoes, both Vine and Dine and Food Network Friday will be going on sabbatical. I’m not sure if we’ll be bringing them back or not, but it feels it is time to let these two projects go. Thank you very much to all of you who have cooked along and made it so much fun.

In the  meantime, scroll back a few posts and enter the contests!

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6 Comments

  1. Posted May 16, 2012 at 12:11 am | Permalink

    Tami, thank you for creating the Vine and Dine, and keeping us inspired as cooks.
    It is so awesome that AVK is the guest of honor, and so rightfully so!

  2. Posted May 16, 2012 at 4:57 am | Permalink

    What a great blog. Love your photos!!
    http://healthyveganlife.blogspot.com/

  3. Posted May 16, 2012 at 2:01 pm | Permalink

    In2, thank you for all your support and encouragement. It means a great deal to me.

    Margaret, thanks! Off to see your blog.

  4. Posted May 19, 2012 at 6:36 am | Permalink

    My family would like any of those meals. Great post!
    http://veganrawfood.net

  5. Posted May 29, 2012 at 9:00 pm | Permalink

    I love that you ended Vine & Dine with your book :)
    I haven’t tried the wheat meat loaf yet, I now have a strong urge to get my arse in a kitchen a whip up that blue plate special!

  6. Posted May 29, 2012 at 9:36 pm | Permalink

    Go,Maggie! Motivate that arse!

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