Soy meatballs

Soy meatballs: a delicious choice for fasting days

When it comes to easy-to-make, nutritious, and flavorful dishes, soy meatballs are undoubtedly an inspired choice. These little delights are not only an excellent alternative for fasting days but also a perfect way to add plant-based protein to your daily diet. Moreover, the recipe is simple, and the combination of ingredients makes it irresistible. Let's see how we can prepare soy meatballs that will delight your taste buds!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 bags of soy granules (approximately 400 g)
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1-2 tablespoons of dried dill)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of water (to help bind the mixture)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 100 g, but can be adjusted based on consistency)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boiling the soy: Start by placing the soy granules in a large pot, adding water and a pinch of salt. Boil the soy for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the soybeans to swell and become soft. Once the time is up, drain the soy in a sieve and let it cool slightly.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the soy is boiling, peel the potatoes and carrot. Grate them finely using a large grater. This is an important step as the vegetables will add moisture and flavor to the meatballs.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained soy, grated potatoes, and carrot. Add the crushed garlic (you can adjust the amount based on your preferences), finely chopped dill, salt, and pepper to taste. You can take a moment to think about the flavors that blend together – it's a symphony of tastes!

4. Binding the mixture: Add 2-3 tablespoons of water and the breadcrumbs, mixing well until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly moldable. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs.

5. Forming the meatballs: Wet your palms and form small balls from the obtained mixture. The size can vary, but a diameter of about 4 cm is ideal for frying evenly.

6. Frying the meatballs: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully plunge the meatballs into the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. It is important not to overcrowd the pan so that the meatballs fry evenly.

7. Finishing the dish: Remove the meatballs onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. They are now ready to serve!

Practical tips:

- Additional flavoring: You can add spices such as paprika or cumin to the mixture for a more intense flavor. Each spice brings a unique note, and experimentation is key!
- Oven version: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius, place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- Serving: These soy meatballs are delicious both hot and cold. You can serve them with yogurt sauce, coleslaw, or a side of mashed potatoes. A fresh tomato and cucumber salad would perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Soy meatballs are rich in plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They also contain fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals, contributing to a healthy diet. Soy, in particular, is known for its antioxidant properties and benefits for cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use ground soy instead of granules? Yes, but make sure to adjust the boiling time as ground soy cooks faster.

- What can I do with leftover meatballs? You can keep them in the refrigerator and reheat them the next day or add them to salads or sandwiches.

- Are soy meatballs suitable for children? Yes! They are a healthy and tasty choice for the whole family. You can adjust the spices to make them less spicy.

In conclusion, soy meatballs are not just a simple and quick recipe but also an opportunity to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful dish. Get inspired by this recipe, add your own personal touches, and enjoy every bite. Enjoy your meal!