BBQ Lentil balls

This hearty BBQ vegan lentil meatballs recipe has become my go-to solution for plant-based protein that actually satisfies everyone at the table. The savory combination of lentils, mushrooms, and rice creates a substantial texture that rivals traditional meatballs without any mock meat products.

I first created these when hosting a dinner party with mixed dietary preferences. The omnivores actually went back for seconds before the vegans could claim their share. Now I make a double batch every time to ensure there are plenty of leftovers.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and helps achieve that caramelized exterior
• Onion and mushrooms: Create the savory foundation that gives these meatballs their meaty texture
• Cooked lentils: Deliver substantial protein and a hearty base; use brown or green varieties for best texture
• Cooked brown rice: Adds structure and helps bind everything together
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering
• Garlic powder: Gives depth without the harshness of fresh garlic in this application
• Dried basil: Brings an herbal note that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly
• Instant oats: Act as a binder and add fiber
• Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and help absorb excess moisture for better formed balls
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and cilantro brighten the earthy flavors
• Vegan worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and complexity
• BBQ sauce: Creates that classic sticky sweet coating and caramelization
• Liquid smoke: Brings that crucial outdoor grilled flavor without the grill

Step-by-Step Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add your chopped onions and mushrooms, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until they release their moisture and become fully translucent. The mushrooms should reduce significantly in size and develop a rich brown color. Set aside to cool slightly.

Create The Binding Mixture:

Add half your cooked lentils to a food processor along with your sautéed vegetables. Pulse until combined but still slightly chunky about 8–10 pulses. You want texture rather than a smooth paste. The mixture will appear wet and sticky but should hold together when pressed.

Combine All Components:

Transfer this processed mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining whole lentils, cooked rice, seasonings, oats, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and liquid flavor enhancers. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or clean hands until you have a consistent mixture that holds together when formed into a ball.

Form The Meatballs:

Using an ice cream scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture and roll between your palms to form uniform balls. This recipe makes approximately 20 medium-sized meatballs. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you work.

Cook To Perfection:

Choose either the pan frying method for a quicker result with more caramelization or the baking method for a more hands-off approach. Both methods create delicious results. For pan frying, ensure your oil is properly heated before adding the meatballs to achieve that perfect exterior crust.

Sauce And Serve:

Whether baked or pan fried, finish by coating the meatballs generously with additional BBQ sauce. This creates that sticky, flavorful exterior that makes these irresistible. Allow to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors set.

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My favorite ingredient in this recipe has to be the liquid smoke. Just that tiny half teaspoon transforms these from good to absolutely craveable. I discovered this trick when trying to replicate the smokiness my family loves from traditional BBQ. Even my barbecue-obsessed brother-in-law requests these whenever he visits now.

Storage Solutions

These lentil meatballs actually improve with a day in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together. Store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For reheating, the microwave works in a pinch but for best results, warm them in a skillet with a splash of water and additional BBQ sauce to refresh the glaze. The sauce prevents them from drying out during reheating.

Easy Substitutions

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Black beans can replace half or all of the lentils for a different flavor profile. Any cooked grain works in place of brown rice; quinoa adds extra protein while white rice creates a softer texture. For gluten-free needs, ensure your oats are certified gluten free and use gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile meatballs shine in multiple presentations. Serve them atop creamy polenta with extra BBQ sauce for an impressive main dish. Thread them onto skewers with chunks of pineapple for a party appetizer that disappears quickly. My personal favorite is to stuff them into a toasted sub roll with caramelized onions and a tangy slaw for the ultimate vegan meatball sandwich that satisfies any comfort food craving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the lentil mixture less wet?

To make the mixture less wet, process only half of the lentils and add breadcrumbs to improve texture and binding.

→ Can I bake the lentil meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

→ What type of BBQ sauce is best for these lentil meatballs?

Use a vegan BBQ sauce with a smoky or slightly sweet flavor to enhance the dish. Adjust the quantity to your taste preferences.

→ Can I use fresh instead of pre-cooked lentils or rice?

Yes, you can cook lentils or rice from scratch. One cup of dried lentils equals two cups of cooked lentils, while ½ cup of dried rice equals one cup of cooked rice.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover lentil meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.

→ How do I prevent the lentil balls from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well-combined and sticky. Adding oats and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture so it holds together.