Vegetarian Meatballs offer a delightful and savory alternative to traditional meat-based dishes, ideal for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption. These meatballs are typically made from a blend of hearty ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, or mushrooms, combined with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices to mimic the texture and flavor of their meaty counterparts. Bound together with egg or a vegan binder and baked or fried to perfection, vegetarian meatballs are versatile and can be served with pasta, in sandwiches, or as a tasty appetizer with dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
- 1 egg (or flax egg)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Mash lentils: Use a fork or food processor to mash the lentils into a paste.
- Mix ingredients: Combine the mashed lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, onion, garlic, and seasonings.
- Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Cook: Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the meatballs until golden on all sides, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite sauce or as part of another dish.
These vegetarian meatballs are not only nutritious but also wonderfully flavorful, making them a satisfying component in a variety of dishes.
