VEGAN Chickpea Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (as a binder)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, flaxseed mixture, nutritional yeast (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. With slightly damp hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the tops of the chickpea balls with a little olive oil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and lightly browned on the outside.
7. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or as a topping for salads or sandwiches.