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TEMPEH ''MEATBALLS''

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For the holiday weekend, it's all about gathering around comforting, seasonal flavors, and this tempeh ''meatball'' recipe is a delicious, plant-based take on a holiday classic. Pair it with a rich, tangy tomato sauce to add extra depth and heartiness to your meal.

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 block (240g) Noble Bean tempeh, crumbled

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 tbsp of cooking oil of your choice

  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried basil

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (or chia seed) + 2.5 tbsp water (to make a flax ''egg'')

  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • Salt and pepper to taste

2 servings

2 servings

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Prepare the flax ''egg'': In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with warm or hot water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken.

  2. Steam the tempeh: Crumble the tempeh into small pieces. Steam it for 10 minutes to soften it and remove any bitterness.

  3. Cook the aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  4. Once cooled, combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl (or pulsed in a food processor), combine the steamed tempeh, cooked onion and garlic, soy sauce, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, breadcrumbs, and the flax ''egg''. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Form into meatballs: Mix everything together until the mixture holds together when pressed. Form into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

  6. Cook the meatballs: You can either bake or pan-fry the meatballs:                                                                                 To bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. To pan-fry: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning frequently, until they are browned on all sides (about 8-10 minutes).

  7. Serve: Serve your tempeh meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, or alongside mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

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