Soy meatballs with mushrooms

Soy Meatballs with Mushrooms - A Vegetarian Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the flavorful world of soy meatballs with mushrooms! These delicious little bites are not only an excellent option for those following a vegetarian or fasting diet but also a healthy and tasty choice for the whole family. In this recipe, you will discover how to prepare the perfect meatballs, with a crispy exterior and soft interior, bursting with flavors that will delight all your senses.

A Brief History of Meatballs

Meatballs, a popular dish in many cultures, have been consumed for centuries, deeply rooted in culinary traditions. Over time, they have evolved, being adapted to available ingredients and local preferences. This recipe for soy meatballs with mushrooms is a modern reinterpretation of a classic, where plant proteins are combined with fresh vegetables to create a healthy and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

- 100 g soy granules (Novel)
- 200 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or shiitake)
- 2 large onions
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 large carrot
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of semolina
- 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (salted)
- 1 tablespoon of dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying

Step by Step: Preparing the Meatballs

1. Boil the Soy Granules
Start by placing the soy granules in a pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Let them boil for 30 minutes. This step is essential to hydrate the soy and reveal all its flavors. Make sure to check occasionally, stirring gently to avoid sticking.

2. Prepare the Vegetables
Meanwhile, clean and wash the mushrooms, onion, garlic, and carrot. Chop them finely. If you want to save time, you can use a blender to chop all the ingredients evenly. Make sure not to turn them into puree; we want them to remain textured!

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, add a little oil and sauté the onion and garlic with a pinch of salt. Sauté them over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes until they become translucent. This step is important as it will enhance the flavor of the vegetables.

4. Add the Carrot and Mushrooms
Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the chopped carrot and mushrooms. Cover the skillet and let the vegetables steam for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will help the vegetables release their juices and blend well.

5. Combine the Ingredients
Once the vegetables have steamed, add the well-drained soy granules, then the flour, semolina, breadcrumbs, dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything with a spatula until the ingredients are well integrated. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

6. Forming and Frying the Meatballs
With wet hands, form small meatballs from the resulting mixture. Ensure they are uniform in size to fry evenly. In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the meatballs until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. After frying, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving
The soy meatballs with mushrooms are served hot, alongside a fresh salad or with a yogurt sauce. A delicious idea would be to accompany them with a garlic sauce or vegan mayonnaise, which will add extra flavor and freshness.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality soy granules, preferably organic, and fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Texture: If you want the meatballs to be less dense, add a bit of water or an egg (if not fasting) to improve the consistency.
- Oven Option: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- Vegetable Variations: Experiment with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a different taste.
- Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container and reheated in a skillet or oven.

Nutritional Benefits

Soy meatballs with mushrooms are rich in plant proteins, providing a healthy alternative to red meat. Soy is an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion, and mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins. These meatballs are low in calories, making them an ideal choice for those looking to maintain their weight or follow a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I replace soy granules?
Yes, you can use crumbled tofu or tempeh, but the cooking time will vary.

- Are the meatballs vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, suitable for a fasting diet.

- What side dishes pair well?
They pair excellently with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh vegetable salad.

Serving Suggestions

Try serving the soy meatballs with mushrooms alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or fresh citrus juice, to complete the meal. You can also add a spicy sauce for an extra kick.

Now that you’ve discovered how to prepare these delicious soy meatballs with mushrooms, you’re ready to bring joy and flavor to every meal. Enjoy!