Chickpea Balls

Looking for a satisfying and flavorful vegan dish? These vegan chickpea meatballs will be a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, aromatic spices, and savory seasonings, these meatless balls are easy to make and bursting with delicious flavor.

I’m always on the lookout for delicious and creative plant-based recipes with plant-based protein. This vegan chickpea meatball recipe holds a favorite because it’s not only incredibly tasty but also simple to make.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy in various dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. Gotta love the versatility!

Key Ingredients

You can find the full printable recipe, including ingredient quantities, below. But first, here are some explanations of ingredients and steps to help you make this recipe perfect every time.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe, including substitution ideas:

• Breadcrumbs: Choose Ezekiel bread for added protein. Toast and crumble it to create healthy breadcrumbs. Store-bought bread crumbs are a suitable alternative.
• Chickpeas: Opt for high-quality canned chickpeas, available in the canned goods section. Dried chickpeas soaked overnight and cooked until tender can be a substitute.
• Flax Egg: Using a ground flax seed egg helps bind the meatballs as they bake and adds healthy omega-3s. Alternatively, use a ground chia seed egg.
• Dehydrated Onions: Find dehydrated onions in the spice aisle. Fresh onions finely chopped can be a substitute.
• Garlic Powder: Easily found in the spice aisle. Fresh garlic minced is a flavorful alternative.
• Italian Seasoning: Pick up a blend from the spice aisle or mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Smoked Paprika: Available in the spice aisle, it adds a smoky kick. Regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
• Vegan Worcestershire Sauce: Make your own or choose a plant-based Worcestershire sauce from the condiment aisle. Soy sauce is an excellent alternative.
• Nutritional Yeast Flakes: Purchase from the health food or spice aisle. It adds a cheesy flavor. Skip if unavailable.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is ideal. Pre-ground pepper works too.

Buying Guide: When purchasing chickpeas for this recipe, opt for canned chickpeas for convenience. Look for brands with no added salt or preservatives for the healthiest option. If using dried chickpeas, soak and cook them according to package instructions before proceeding with the recipe.

How to Make Chickpea Balls

1. Prepare the Bread Crumbs: Start by toasting the Ezekiel bread until golden brown, then tear it into pieces. Place the bread in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. This step adds texture and helps bind the meatballs together.
2. Blend the Ingredients: In the same food processor, add the drained chickpeas, flax egg, spices, vegan Worcestershire sauce, nutritional yeast flakes, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it forms a thick batter, leaving some chickpea texture for added bite.
3. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, forming 12 meatballs in total. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F/200°C and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Baking rather than frying keeps them healthier while achieving a deliciously crisp texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, serve these flavorful vegan chickpea meatballs hot as a main course with your favorite sauce, or use them as a protein-packed addition to pasta dishes, sandwiches, or salads.