Introduction: Welcome to a culinary journey where flavor meets compassion – introducing our sumptuous Vegan Mushroom Meatballs! Crafted with precision and passion, these delectable meatballs redefine traditional comfort food, offering a guilt-free indulgence for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Bursting with umami-rich mushrooms, savory herbs, and wholesome ingredients, these meatballs are a testament to the versatility and creativity of plant-based cooking.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
  • 1 cup of cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup of finely diced onions
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
  • 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water (flax egg)
  • 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions:

  1. Begin by preparing the flax egg. In a small bowl, mix together the ground flaxseed and water. Set aside to thicken for about 5 minutes, creating a vegan egg substitute.
  2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Once the mushrooms are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Allow them to cool slightly.
  5. To the bowl of mushrooms, add the cooked quinoa, nutritional yeast, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, dried oregano, and the prepared flax egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  7. Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mushroom mixture and roll them into meatball-sized balls, placing them onto the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Once all the mixture has been formed into meatballs, lightly brush each meatball with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. This will help them achieve a golden brown crust as they bake.
  9. Bake the mushroom meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  10. Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
  11. Serve your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce, pasta, or alongside a crisp salad. Enjoy the savory goodness guilt-free!

Introduction: Welcome to a culinary journey where flavor meets compassion – introducing our sumptuous Vegan Mushroom Meatballs! Crafted with precision and passion, these delectable meatballs redefine traditional comfort food, offering a guilt-free indulgence for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Bursting with umami-rich mushrooms, savory herbs, and wholesome ingredients, these meatballs are a testament to the versatility and creativity of plant-based cooking.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
  • 1 cup of cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup of finely diced onions
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
  • 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water (flax egg)
  • 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions:

  1. Begin by preparing the flax egg. In a small bowl, mix together the ground flaxseed and water. Set aside to thicken for about 5 minutes, creating a vegan egg substitute.
  2. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the finely chopped mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Once the mushrooms are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Allow them to cool slightly.
  5. To the bowl of mushrooms, add the cooked quinoa, nutritional yeast, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, dried oregano, and the prepared flax egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, forming a cohesive mixture.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  7. Using your hands, scoop out portions of the mushroom mixture and roll them into meatball-sized balls, placing them onto the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Once all the mixture has been formed into meatballs, lightly brush each meatball with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. This will help them achieve a golden brown crust as they bake.
  9. Bake the mushroom meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  10. Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
  11. Serve your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs hot with your favorite marinara sauce, pasta, or alongside a crisp salad. Enjoy the savory goodness guilt-free!

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 8g

Smart Weight Watchers Points: 6 points per serving

Conclusion: With our Vegan Mushroom Meatballs recipe, you can savor the rich flavors and textures of traditional meatballs without compromising your dietary choices or ethical values. Packed with nutrients, protein, and mouthwatering taste, these meatballs are not only delicious but also nourishing for your body and soul. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a satisfying appetizer, these plant-based delights are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant world of vegan cuisine!