Are you looking to add some variety to your vegetarian diet? Look no further than these delicious plant - based meatballs. They are not only a great option for vegetarians but also for those who want to reduce their meat consumption. In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, the step - by - step process of making these meatballs, and some serving suggestions.

Ingredients

To make these plant - based meatballs, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of cooked lentils: Lentils are a great source of protein and add a hearty texture to the meatballs. You can use either green or brown lentils. Simply rinse them well and cook them in water until they are tender, usually about 20 - 30 minutes.
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the ingredients together and give the meatballs a nice, crispy exterior. You can use store - bought breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting and grinding stale bread.
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional): While this is a plant - based recipe, a little bit of Parmesan can add a rich, savory flavor. If you're strictly vegan, you can omit this ingredient or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.
• 1 egg (or 1 flax egg for a vegan option): The egg acts as a binder. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the meatballs. Make sure to mince it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the mixture.
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: Oregano is a classic Italian herb that pairs well with the other flavors in the meatballs.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Salt helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper: A little bit of black pepper adds a subtle kick.
• 1/4 cup of olive oil: Olive oil is used for frying the meatballs and gives them a nice golden - brown color.

Preparation

1. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will be used to finish cooking the meatballs after they are fried.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash them slightly. You don't want them to be completely smooth; a bit of texture is good.

3. Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg or flax egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the mashed lentils. Mix everything together well until it forms a cohesive dough - like mixture. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a little bit of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 - 1.5 inches in diameter. You can use your hands to roll them into balls. Place the formed meatballs on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium - high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will prevent the meatballs from cooking evenly. Cook the meatballs for about 2 - 3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown on the outside. You may need to do this in batches.

6. After frying, transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet lined with foil. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 - 15 minutes. This will help to cook the meatballs through and make them more firm.

Serving Suggestions

These plant - based meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Spaghetti and Meatballs: Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked spaghetti and top with your favorite marinara sauce. You can also sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
• Meatball Subs: Place the meatballs in a hoagie roll, top with marinara sauce, and some melted mozzarella cheese. Toast the sub in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Meatball Salad: Add the meatballs to a fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing. The meatballs add a protein - rich element to the salad.

In conclusion, these plant - based meatballs are a delicious and healthy addition to your vegetarian or meat - reduced diet. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be served in a variety of ways. So, the next time you're planning a meatless dinner, give these meatballs a try!