Vegan Mushroom Balls

Time

• Prep: 20 minutes
• Cook: 25–30 minutes
• Total: About 45–50 minutes

Ingredients

Main:

• 2 cups mushrooms (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Binding:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 5 tablespoons water (to make flax egg)

Flavor:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Optional additions:

• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
• Fresh parsley or coriander (chopped)

Instructions

1. Prepare flax egg

• Mix ground flaxseed with water.
• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it thickens.

2. Cook the mushrooms

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add onions and cook until soft (3–4 minutes).
• Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Add chopped mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become dry (8–10 minutes).
• Let the mixture cool slightly.

3. Make the mixture

• In a bowl, combine cooked mushroom mixture, breadcrumbs, flax egg, soy sauce, and spices.
• Add nutritional yeast and herbs if using.
• Mix until everything is well combined.

4. Shape the balls

• Form small balls (about 1–1.5 inches each) using your hands.
• If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

5. Cook (choose method)

Baking (healthier option):

• Preheat oven to 200°C.
• Place balls on a lined tray.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.

Pan-frying:

• Heat a little oil in a pan.
• Cook balls on all sides until crispy and browned.

Air fryer:

• Cook at 180°C for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.

6. Serve

• Serve hot with your favorite sauce.

Serving Ideas

• With marinara sauce and pasta
• In a sandwich or wrap
• As an appetizer with dip

Tips

• Finely chop mushrooms for better texture.
• Cook out all moisture from mushrooms to prevent soggy balls.
• Chill mixture for 15 minutes if it feels too soft to shape.

Approximate Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 180–220
• Low fat
• Plant-based protein and fiber