Delectable Vegan Meatballs Recipe for guilt-free indulgence

Few culinary delights rival the satisfaction of a steaming bowl of spaghetti and meatballs. Now, vegans, rejoice! You can savor this classic comfort dish without a hint of guilt. Our chickpea-based vegan meatballs not only burst with flavor but also offer a quick preparation, packing a substantial punch of protein and fiber. Let's dive into why our vegan meatballs stand out from the rest:

Egg Substitute Innovation

Many vegan recipes rely on a "flax egg" as an egg substitute. While effective, flax seeds may impart a fishy aftertaste, an undesirable flavor in a dish meant to exude hearty richness. Our ingenious solution involves using chia seeds soaked in water, providing a similar effect minus the unwelcome aftertaste. Additionally, chia seeds bring antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids – nutritional benefits absent in traditional meatballs.

Robust Texture

Once baked, these vegan meatballs boast an impeccable texture. Firm and slightly crisp on the outside, they maintain a delightful non-mushy interior. Whether tossed in your preferred sauce, stuffed into a meatball sub, or placed atop a salad, their sturdiness makes them versatile for various culinary applications. Perfect for repurposing leftovers or convenient meal prepping.

The Secret Ingredient

Care to guess? It's fennel seeds! These tiny powerhouses infuse the meatballs with a familiar meaty flavor, adding a smoky and savory dimension. The result is an extra addictive quality that elevates these vegan meatballs to a whole new level. Don't overlook the magic of fennel seeds!

Have you tried making them? Share your experience in the comments below.

Nutritional Information and Serving Details

• YIELDS: 3 - 4 serving(s)
• PREP TIME: 10 mins
• TOTAL TIME: 45 mins
• CAL/SERV: 267

Ingredients

Directions

1. 1 - Preparation: Preheat the oven to 425°. Line a medium baking sheet with aluminum foil and grease it with cooking spray.

2. 2 - Chickpea Processing: Drain the chickpeas, reserving the liquid. Transfer chickpeas to a food processor and process until broken down.

3. 3 - Chia Egg: Make a chia egg by combining chia seeds and water in a medium bowl. Stir to combine and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture gels and thickens.

4. 4 - Blending Ingredients: Add the chia egg, oats, tomato paste, basil, garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes to the food processor. Blend until combined. If the mixture is too dry, add liquid from the chickpea can one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper.

5. 5 - Forming Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 16 meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip the meatballs, and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crisp. Serve with your favorite pasta and sauce.

Indulge in the goodness of guilt-free vegan meatballs – a culinary masterpiece that's hearty, flavorful, and a breeze to prepare!