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These Azuki bean meatballs have become a fantastic plant-based protein option for flavorful meals. The tender texture and subtle sweetness of the beans create the perfect bite. They're quick to prepare and offer a satisfying alternative to traditional meatballs that's both nutritious and delicious.
Plant-Based Bean Meatballs
These versatile bean meatballs achieve the ideal balance of protein and flavor. The combination of ingredients creates a hearty texture that even meat-eaters enjoy. They're perfect for meal prep and can be used in multiple dishes throughout the week.
Essential Ingredients
- 225g cooked Azuki beans, drained
- 60g rolled oats
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Initial Prep
- Blend ingredients until a cohesive mixture forms with a texture similar to soft cookie dough.
- Shaping
- Form mixture into evenly-sized meatballs using clean hands.
- Cooking
- Pan-fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Sauce Preparation
- Create a complementary sauce for serving.
- Final Step
- Allow meatballs to simmer briefly in the sauce before serving.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over steamed basmati rice or fresh pasta. They pair wonderfully with a plant-based yogurt sauce brightened with lemon and herbs. For extra heat, offer a side of spicy sauce for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap azuki beans for other beans?
- Definitely! Regular red beans work just as well. You’ll get a similar texture and flavor.
- → Why chill the balls before cooking?
- Chilling helps the bean balls firm up, so they’re less likely to fall apart when you cook them.
- → How should I store these bean balls?
- They’ll last in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them—just do it before cooking for longer storage.
- → Is the sauce necessary?
- It’s optional! The bean balls taste fine on their own, but the sauce adds extra flavor and keeps them moist. Feel free to make your own unique sauce instead.
- → Can I bake the bean balls?
- Yes, baking works! Set your oven to 180°C (about 350°F) and cook them for 20 minutes. Brush them with oil so they get a nice golden finish.