Create Irresistibly Tasty Vegan Cranberry Meatballs Today!

Get ready to wow your guests with these mouthwatering Vegan Cranberry Meatballs! These bite-sized delights are not only incredibly flavorful but also a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Made with a blend of toasted walnuts, meaty mushrooms, and savory seasonings, these vegan meatballs are sure to be the star of your next gathering. Paired with a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, these meatballs are the perfect combination of comfort and elegance.

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The Ingredients That Make These Vegan Cranberry Meatballs Shine

The key to Vegan Cranberry Meatballs is the carefully selected ingredients that come together to create a truly remarkable dish. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into these tasty morsels:

Vegan Meatballs

• 1 cup walnuts, toasted
• 8 ounces button mushrooms, thinly chopped
• 1 ¼ cup O Organics Stone Ground Crackers
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp. soy sauce
• 2 tbsp. dried minced onion
• 1 tbsp. dried parsley
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. Signature SELECT Ground Pepper
• 2 tbsp. chia eggs (see notes below for chia egg instructions)

Cranberry Sauce

• 8 ounces Signature SELECT Jellied Cranberry Sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 ½ tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. hot sauce (I recommend Tabasco or Crystal)
• 2 tsp. lemon juice

The combination of toasted walnuts, earthy mushrooms, and savory seasonings create a wonderfully meaty and satisfying vegan meatball base. The cranberry sauce, with its tangy-sweet flavor and vibrant color, complements the meatballs perfectly, making for a truly delightful appetizer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Cranberry Meatballs

Preparing these Vegan Cranberry Meatballs is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Meatballs

In a food processor, pulse the toasted walnuts until finely chopped. Add the mushrooms, crackers, ketchup, soy sauce, dried onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and chia eggs. Pulse the mixture until it comes together, but still has some texture.

Roll the meatball mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake the vegan meatballs for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they are firm and lightly browned.

Make the Cranberry Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the cranberry sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.

Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are baked, toss them in the cranberry sauce until they are evenly coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Vegan Cranberry Meatballs warm as an appetizer or alongside your favorite side dish. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite!

Tips for Perfecting Your Vegan Cranberry Meatballs

To ensure your Vegan Cranberry Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Texture is Key: Pulse the meatball mixture just until it comes together, but still maintains some texture. Overpulsing can result in a dense, compact meatball.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, swap the O Organics Stone Ground Crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer, or pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish for a more substantial meal.
• Storing and Reheating: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Vegan Cranberry Meatballs

Not only are these Vegan Cranberry Meatballs delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Each serving (about 3 meatballs) contains:

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g

The walnuts in the meatballs provide heart-healthy fats and plant-based protein, while the mushrooms and chia seeds offer additional fiber and nutrients. The cranberry sauce is also a source of antioxidants, making this a nutritious and delightful appetizer option.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Vegan Roasted Carrot and Red Pepper Soup
• Vegan Chili with Black Beans
• Easy Vegan Cheese Sauce
• Vegetarian Mushroom Stroganoff

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Cranberry Meatballs

What ingredients are used to make Vegan Cranberry Meatballs?

The key ingredients for the Vegan Cranberry Meatballs are toasted walnuts, button mushrooms, O Organics Stone Ground Crackers, ketchup, soy sauce, dried minced onion, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and chia eggs. The cranberry sauce is made with jellied cranberry sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, hot sauce, and lemon juice.

Can I make Vegan Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can absolutely make the Vegan Cranberry Meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Simply bake the meatballs as directed, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Add the cranberry sauce just before serving.

Are there gluten-free options for Vegan Cranberry Meatballs?

Yes, you can easily make these Vegan Cranberry Meatballs gluten-free. Instead of the O Organics Stone Ground Crackers, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This simple swap will ensure the meatballs are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

What sauces or sides pair best with Vegan Cranberry Meatballs?

The cranberry sauce in this recipe provides a delicious and complementary flavor to the Vegan Cranberry Meatballs. However, you can also serve them with other tasty sauces, such as a vegan barbecue sauce, a zesty sweet chili sauce, or a creamy vegan dipping sauce. As for sides, these meatballs pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Indulge in the Delightful Flavors of Vegan Cranberry Meatballs

Get ready to impress your guests with these irresistible Vegan Cranberry Meatballs! The combination of savory, nutty, and sweet flavors creates a truly remarkable appetizer that’s sure to be the talk of your next gathering. Whether you serve them as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite sides, these meatballs are a delicious and healthy option that everyone will love. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of Vegan Cranberry Meatballs!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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