1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Sauté onion over medium heat until soft, adding a drop or two of water as needed to prevent sticking. Add mushrooms and black pepper then cook until mushrooms are soft and releasing their juices. Add garlic, basil, thyme,  and liquid smoke.
3. Cook until the pan dries out, then add a splash of red wine or sherry. Cook until reduced then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
4. Combine quinoa, walnuts and almonds in a large bowl.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the ground flax or chia seed with water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it forms a gel. Add ketchup, dairy-free ricotta and mix well. When combined, add to quinoa and nut bowl. Stir in mushrooms and chopped parsley. Mix, taste and adjust black pepper and herbs as desired.
6. Fill loaf pan with mixture, tapping the sides a few time to release air bubbles. Smooth with a spatula and decorate top if desired (e.g. mushroom slices, bell pepper strips, whole walnuts).
7. Bake for one hour or until the loaf is firm. Remove and allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before removing it. Slice and serve.

Notes: After loaf mixture has been prepared (step 5) it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one day until baking. Cook time will be slightly longer. Nut loaf can also be prepared using 2 VeganEgg (4 level tablespoons VeganEgg plus 1 cup ice cold water); texture and flavor are improved.