Vegan Bean Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

These vegan meatballs are a delicious and healthy plant-based alternative to classic meatballs. Made with beans and oats, they are easy to prepare and perfect for a quick meal or a flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 can pinto beans or black beans
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup quick oats or almond flour
• 1 tsp minced garlic or 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• Flavor options of your choice (such as Italian seasoning, chili flakes, or fresh herbs)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking instead of frying.
2. Step 2: Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
3. Step 3: In a food processor, combine the beans, salt, oats or almond flour, garlic, onion, and your chosen flavor options. Pulse until evenly blended but still slightly textured—avoid over-processing.
4. Step 4: Roll the mixture into small balls to ensure even cooking.
5. Step 5: To cook, either pan fry the meatballs in a little oil until browned on all sides, or place them on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake on the center rack for 10 minutes.
6. Step 6: Turn each meatball and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until they reach your desired texture.

Tips & Variations

• Using small-sized meatballs helps achieve even cooking and a better texture.
• Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
• Substitute quick oats with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Serve with your favorite marinara sauce or vegan pesto for a tasty twist.

Storage

Store cooked vegan meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain texture. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute with chickpeas or kidney beans, but be sure to drain and rinse them well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use almond flour instead of oats, and double-check that any seasoning or sauces you use are gluten-free.

Vegan Bean Meatballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 109 reviews

These vegan meatballs are a delicious and nutritious plant-based alternative to traditional meatballs, made with beans, oats, and aromatic seasonings. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, they can be baked or pan-fried for a versatile and easy dinner option.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 small meatballs 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup quick oats or almond flour
• 1 tsp minced garlic or 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup chopped onion

Optional Flavor Enhancers

• Flavor options such as fresh herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast can be added to taste (not specified in the recipe)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven or prepare the pan: If baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, prepare a skillet with a little oil for pan frying.
2. Prepare the beans: Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly to remove excess liquid and sodium.
3. Combine ingredients: Place the rinsed beans, salt, oats or almond flour, garlic, and chopped onion into a food processor. Pulse just until evenly blended but still slightly textured, avoiding over-processing into a paste.
4. Form meatballs: Use your hands or a spoon to roll the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs to ensure they cook evenly.
5. Bake or fry: For baking, place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking tray at the center rack. Bake for 10 minutes, then turn each meatball and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until they reach your desired texture. For pan frying, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through.

Notes

• Using small meatballs helps them cook more evenly and thoroughly.
• Quick oats or almond flour both work as binders, but almond flour makes the recipe gluten-free.
• Flavor variations like adding herbs (parsley, oregano), spices (cumin, smoked paprika), or nutritional yeast can enhance taste.
• Drain and rinse your beans well to prevent sogginess and reduce sodium content.
• The meatballs can be served with your favorite pasta sauce, in a sub sandwich, or as a protein-packed snack.

Keywords: vegan meatballs, plant-based meatballs, baked vegan meatballs, healthy vegan dinner, bean meatballs