Vegan Sweet and Sour Meatballs

These vegan sweet and sour meatballs are a delightful and healthy twist on a classic dish. Made with plant-based ingredients, they are meat-free, dairy-free, and packed with flavor. The sweet and tangy sauce coats the meatballs perfectly, creating a delicious combination of tastes. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a main dish or appetizer. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful vegan meatballs!

Ingredients

• For the meatballs:
• 2 cups cooked lentils
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sweet and sour sauce:
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup water

Directions

1. In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Shape the lentil mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 25 minutes, or until they are firm and slightly browned.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water.
6. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
7. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large skillet or saucepan. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the meatballs and stir gently to coat.
8. Place the skillet or saucepan over medium heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the meatballs are heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.
9. Serve the vegan sweet and sour meatballs as a main dish with rice or noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
10. Enjoy!

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