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- Cook Quinoa:
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- Rinse quinoa and add to a pot with water.
- Simmer for 15 minutes or until fully cooked.
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- Prepare Chickpeas:
- Drain and mash chickpeas with a fork in a large bowl.
- Cook Quinoa:
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- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
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- Dice the onion and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Lightly oil a pan and sauté the onion for a few minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cumin seeds, and sauté for another minute.
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- Mix Ingredients:
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- Add the cooked quinoa, sautéed onion, and garlic to the mashed chickpeas.
- Add breadcrumbs, ground walnuts, and nutritional yeast (if using).
- Season with paprika, dried herbs, Korean chili flakes, and salt to taste.
- Mix everything well until fully combined.
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- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- Form Balls:
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- Lightly spray or drizzle an oven-safe pan with oil.
- Form the mixture into 1oz (30g) balls and place them on the prepared pan.
- Lightly spray the balls with oil.
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- Bake:
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- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Bake the balls for 15 minutes until golden and crispy.
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Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve with dairy-free yogurt, sour cream, or your favorite sauce.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a protein-rich snack or appetizer.
Cooking Tips:
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- Ensure the quinoa is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Use a food processor to quickly mash the chickpeas and mix the ingredients if preferred.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Benefits:
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- High in protein from chickpeas, quinoa, and walnuts.
- Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
- Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and is a great source of B-vitamins.
Dietary Information:
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- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
- Protein: 8g
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- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Dietary Considerations: This recipe is gluten-free if using chickpea crumbs. It is also dairy-free and vegan.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
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- A healthy, protein-packed alternative to meatballs.
- Versatile and can be served in various ways.
- Perfect for meal prep and quick meals.
Conclusion:
These Baked Chickpea and Quinoa Balls are a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. With their rich flavor, satisfying texture, and nutritious profile, they are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite sauce or as part of a healthy meal!