Vegan Mushroom Meatballs Recipe

Hearty, flavorful, and satisfying — just like mom used to make, but meat-free!

📝 Ingredients (Makes about 18-20 meatballs)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini, button, or a mix – pulsed in a food processor works best)
• 1 small carrot, finely grated or chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (or oats blended into coarse flour)
• 1/2 cup cooked lentils (optional but recommended for texture)
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water (flax egg substitute)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare Flax Egg:
   In a small bowl, combine flaxseed and water. Stir and set aside for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
2. Cook the Veggies:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper until soft (about 5–7 minutes).
   Add the chopped mushrooms, soy sauce, and seasonings (oregano, paprika, salt & pepper). Cook until mushrooms release moisture and it evaporates, about 10 minutes.
3. Combine the Mixture:
   Remove from heat. Stir in the tomato paste, cooked lentils (if using), breadcrumbs, and flax egg. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
   Let it cool slightly, then mash lightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
4. Form Meatballs:
   Scoop a tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Place on a lined baking sheet or plate.
5. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Pan-fry Option: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs until browned on all sides (about 8–10 minutes).
   • Bake Option: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake meatballs for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with your favorite sauce — mushroom gravy, marinara, or even as-is with a drizzle of tahini or vegan yogurt dip.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Over pasta with marinara
• In a sub roll for a meatball sandwich
• With mashed potatoes and gravy
• On a platter as a party appetizer

💡 Tips:

• Make extra and freeze! These meatballs freeze well — just reheat in the oven or pan.
• Want extra umami? Add a teaspoon of miso paste or nutritional yeast to the mix.
• No lentils? Sub with cooked quinoa, rice, or more breadcrumbs.