Vegan Smothered Mushroom Balls

Ingredients:

For the Mushroom Balls:
  • 2 cups Bella mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup green onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (yellow, red, orange), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon adobo all-purpose seasoning
  • 1/2 cup flour (use gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for GF option)
  • 2 tablespoons trilogy seeds (flaxseed, chia seed, hemp seed), ground
For Cooking:
  • 2-3 tablespoons grape seed oil (or any cooking oil of choice)
For the Sauce:
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (vegan and gluten-free)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Mushroom Balls:
    • Start by finely chopping the Bella mushrooms, green onion, celery, mixed bell peppers, sweet onion, and garlic. For quicker chopping, a food processor can be used.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with sea salt, garlic powder, adobo seasoning, flour, breadcrumbs, and ground trilogy seeds. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  2. Form the Mushroom Balls:
    • Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, making approximately 12-15 mushroom balls.
  3. Cook the Mushroom Balls:
    • Heat 2 tablespoons of grape seed oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Carefully place the mushroom balls into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • Once the mushroom balls are browned, reduce the heat to low and carefully pour the cream of mushroom soup over the balls in the skillet. Gently stir to coat the mushroom balls evenly with the sauce.
    • Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mushroom balls simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Serve:
    • Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
    • Serve the Vegan Smothered Mushroom Balls warm as a main dish or alongside your favorite sides such as fried potatoes, spicy cabbage, or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 3 mushroom balls and sauce):

  • Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g

SmartPoints (WW):

  • Each serving of the Vegan Smothered Mushroom Balls is approximately 7 SmartPoints on the WW (Weight Watchers) program.

Tips:

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Storage: Store any leftover mushroom balls and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
  • Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to customize the vegetable mixture based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add more spices or herbs for additional flavor.
  • Health Benefits: This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables and seeds, making it a nutritious choice for vegans and vegetarians alike.
  • Allergen Information: Double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients.

This Vegan Smothered Mushroom Balls recipe offers a hearty and flavorful meal option that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the delicious blend of vegetables and creamy sauce guilt-free with this WW-friendly dish!