Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will challenge everything you thought you knew about plant-based comfort food! These Vegan German Meatballs are not just another meatless recipe - they're a game-changing, flavor-packed dish that will have even die-hard meat lovers asking for seconds. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned lentil "meatballs" swimming in a creamy white sauce that's so rich and satisfying, you'll forget you're eating a completely plant-based meal.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: German
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup plant-based cream
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands, form the mixture into uniform round meatballs approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure each meatball is compact and holds together well.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs in the pan, allowing space between each one to ensure even cooking.
- Gently rotate the meatballs every 3-4 minutes to achieve a golden-brown exterior on all sides. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes total.
- Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, pour vegetable broth and plant-based cream, whisking to create a smooth white sauce.
- Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Return the meatballs to the sauce, coating them evenly. Let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or additional smoked paprika if desired. Pair with roasted potatoes or crusty bread.
Tips
- Moisture is Key: Make sure your cooked lentils are well-drained to prevent soggy meatballs. Pat them dry with a paper towel if necessary.
- Binding Magic: The breadcrumbs are crucial for holding the meatballs together. If the mixture seems too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Uniform Size Matters: Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to ensure consistent meatball sizes for even cooking.
- Low and Slow: Cook the meatballs on medium heat to achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning.
- Sauce Consistency: If your white sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it's too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, toast your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the meatball mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
