2. Mash the Chickpeas:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture. This will provide the base for your veggie balls.
3. Mix Ingredients Together:
Add the grated zucchini, chopped carrots, breadcrumbs, ground flaxseed, nutritional yeast, garlic, oregano, cumin, and fresh parsley to the mashed chickpeas. Stir well to combine everything into a uniform mixture.
4. Form the Veggie Balls:
Once your mixture is well combined, season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to form small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 12-15 veggie balls, depending on the size.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the veggie balls on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 1 inch apart.
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top of the veggie balls for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time for even crispness.
6. Serve:
Once baked, remove the veggie balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, on top of pasta, or as part of a salad.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these veggie balls with marinara sauce and pasta for a classic vegan twist on spaghetti and meatballs. Alternatively, enjoy them in wraps or pita pockets with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini sauce. They’re also great as a party appetizer with a side of vegan ranch or barbecue sauce.
Storing:
Store any leftover veggie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Make Ahead:
These veggie balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and freeze them before or after baking. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag or container for long-term storage.
Variants:
Add More Veggies:
If you’d like to add more nutrients, consider adding finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mixture. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from any additional vegetables.
Spice It Up:
If you love bold flavors, feel free to add some chili flakes, smoked paprika, or even curry powder to give your veggie balls a kick of heat and spice.
Use Other Legumes:
You can replace chickpeas with other beans like black beans or lentils for a different flavor and texture. Make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.
FAQ:
1. Can I make these veggie balls gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
2. Can I bake these veggie balls in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the veggie balls in batches for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. Can I fry these veggie balls instead of baking them?
Yes, you can pan-fry the veggie balls in a little oil until they’re golden brown and crispy. However, baking them is a healthier alternative that still delivers a deliciously crispy texture.
4. Can I freeze these veggie balls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked veggie balls. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, and once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Can I make these veggie balls without flaxseed?
Yes, you can substitute the flaxseed with ground chia seeds or even a tablespoon of cornstarch as a binder. Flaxseed helps with texture, but other ingredients will still hold them together.
Conclusion:
Vegan Baked Veggie Balls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these nutrient-dense veggie balls are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, adding them to your favorite dish, or serving them at a party, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Plus, with endless variations, you can customize them to your taste, making them a family favorite in no time!
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