Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEstella RestaurantVegan Meatballs Recipe

Vegan Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by Estella Restaurant
Time1h
Serves4

House-made marinara, shredded vegan mozzarella cheese, balsamic glaze, fresh basil

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Ingredients

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Vegan Meatballs

Method

Vegan Meatballs

  1. 1

    Prepare Flax Egg

    In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed and water. Stir well and let sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

  2. 2

    Mix Ingredients

    In a large bowl, mash the cooked chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Add the flax mixture, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix until combined.

  3. 3

    Shape Meatballs

    Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  4. 4

    Bake Meatballs

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.

House-made Marinara

  1. 5

    Sauté Aromatics

    In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).

  2. 6

    Add Tomatoes

    Add the canned crushed tomatoes to the saucepan, stirring to combine.

  3. 7

    Season Sauce

    Stir in chopped fresh basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembly

  1. 8

    Combine Meatballs and Sauce

    Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the marinara sauce and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

  2. 9

    Serve

    Serve the meatballs topped with shredded vegan mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

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