Lentil Walnut Loaf

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked green lentils
• 1 cup shelled walnuts halves, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt plus sea salt for seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus pepper for seasoning
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1 cup carrot, grated
• 1/3 cup sweet apple, peeled and grated (optional)
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup gluten-free oat flour
• 1/2 cup spelt bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce or apple butter
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)