Name: Vegan Mushroom Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing); 1 small Onion; 3 cloves Garlic; 11 oz Button Mushrooms (chopped); 1 tsp Dried Basil; 1 tsp Dried Oregano; 1 tsp Ground Cumin Seeds; ½ cup Walnut meal or 1 cup Walnut halves (chopped finely); ½ cup Rice (cooked, measured as cooked); 1 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast; ½ tsp Sweet Smoked Paprika Powder; 1 + ½ tsp Soy Sauce or Tamari; 2 Tbsp Corn Starch (acts as a binder)

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If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, plant-based meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than these Vegan Mushroom Meatballs. They’re not only nutritious but also packed with umami goodness, making them a perfect addition to your dinner table. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, with a side of veggies, or as a snack, these meatballs are sure to impress even the most skeptical of eaters. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Vegan Mushroom Meatballs deserve a prime spot in your weekly meal rotation for several reasons. First, they offer a satisfying texture and taste that rivals traditional meatballs while being entirely plant-based. Second, they’re versatile! You can pair them with a variety of sauces, such as Creamy Mushroom Thyme Soup, or toss them in your favorite marinara for a classic spaghetti dinner. Lastly, they’re easy to whip up and make for a fantastic meal prep option, ensuring you have wholesome food ready to go throughout the week.

Ingredient Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to make these flavorful Vegan Mushroom Meatballs:

1 Tbsp Olive Oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich flavor.
1 small Onion: Enhances the base flavor of the meatballs.
3 cloves Garlic: Adds aromatic qualities and depth of flavor.
11 oz Button Mushrooms: The star ingredient that provides a meaty texture.
1 tsp Dried Basil: For a hint of herbaceous flavor.
1 tsp Dried Oregano: Complements the other herbs and adds complexity.
1 tsp Ground Cumin Seeds: For warmth and a slight earthiness.
Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
½ cup Walnut meal or 1 cup Walnut halves (chopped finely): Adds crunch and healthy fats.
½ cup Rice (cooked, measured as cooked): Provides bulk and texture.
1 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy, savory flavor.
½ tsp Sweet Smoked Paprika Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and smokiness.
1 + ½ tsp Soy Sauce or Tamari: For depth and umami flavor.
2 Tbsp Corn Starch: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Healthy Vegan Marinara Sauce: Perfect for serving with your meatballs.
Caramelized Carrot Sauce: A delightful alternative sauce option.
Vegan Mac and Cheese Sauce: For a fun twist on your meal.
Vegan Cashew Alfredo Sauce: Rich and creamy, perfect for pairing.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get cooking, gather these essential tools:

Skillet: For sautéing ingredients.
Food Processor: To chop and combine ingredients smoothly.
Baking Sheet: For baking the meatballs.
Mixing Bowl: To combine all your ingredients.
Spoon or Cookie Scoop: For portioning out the meatballs.

From Start to Finish: Vegan Mushroom Meatballs

Follow these simple steps to create your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Mushrooms

While the onions and garlic are cooking, clean and chop the button mushrooms into smaller pieces. Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft and have released their moisture.

Step 3: Season It Up

Once the mushrooms are cooked, stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Blend the Mixture

Transfer the mushroom mixture to a food processor. Add the walnut meal (or chopped walnuts), cooked rice, nutritional yeast, sweet smoked paprika, soy sauce, and corn starch. Process until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture. Be careful not to over-blend—it should resemble a thick paste.

Step 5: Form the Meatballs

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Moroccan Chickpea Spinach Stew or your favorite marinara sauce. They’re also fantastic over a bed of pasta, with some sautéed greens, or on their own as a snack!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Mix things up with these festive variations:

Sundried Tomato & Spinach: Add chopped sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
BBQ Glazed: Brush the meatballs with your favorite vegan BBQ sauce before baking for a smoky flavor.
Herbed Pesto: Incorporate vegan pesto into the mixture for a burst of basil flavor.
Spicy Chipotle: Add chipotle powder or diced chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.

Steer Clear of These

When making your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs, avoid the following:

Overcooking the mushrooms, which can lead to a soggy mixture.
Using too much corn starch; it can make the meatballs gummy instead of firm.
Skipping the nutritional yeast, which contributes to the savory flavor.
Not allowing the meatballs to bake properly; they need enough time to firm up and develop a crust.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These Vegan Mushroom Meatballs are perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips:

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them completely before reheating!

FAQ

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely! While button mushrooms work well, you can experiment with cremini, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile! Serve them with pasta and marinara, on a sub with vegan cheese, or over a grain bowl with roasted vegetables.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free if you decide to substitute them for walnut meal.

How do I store leftover meatballs?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat as needed.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re in a pinch, here are some quick meal ideas that pair well with your Vegan Mushroom Meatballs:

Brothy Mushrooms With Soba Scallions for a light and nutritious soup.
Serve them with a side of steamed vegetables for a quick and healthy dinner.
Mix them into a salad for added protein and flavor.
Incorporate them into a wrap with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the steps and tips to make these Vegan Mushroom Meatballs, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these meatballs will be a hit!

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