📌 1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
📌 2. Add onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
📌 3. Stir in garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and become golden.
📌 4. Add soy sauce and tomato paste, stirring well.
📌 5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
💡 For an extra meaty texture, pulse the mixture in a food processor a few times!
Step 2: Make the Meatball Dough
📌 1. In a bowl, mix the mushroom mixture with ground walnuts, breadcrumbs, flax egg, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
📌 2. Stir well until everything is combined. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water.
📌 3. Cover and chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes (helps with shaping!).
💡 Chilling helps the mixture firm up for better meatball consistency.
Step 3: Shape & Cook the Meatballs
📌 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a skillet for frying.
📌 2. Roll the mixture into small, even-sized meatballs (about 1-inch each).
Option 1: Bake
📌 1. Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
📌 2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Pan-Fry
📌 1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
📌 2. Cook meatballs for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
💡 For extra crispiness, broil for 3 minutes after baking!
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Toss in marinara sauce & serve over spaghetti for classic Spaghetti & Meatballs. 🍝
✔ Use in a sub sandwich with melted vegan cheese for a Meatball Sub. 🥖
✔ Serve as an appetizer with BBQ or teriyaki sauce.
💡 Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months!
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Mushroom Meatballs
✔ Incredibly Flavorful – Packed with umami goodness from mushrooms & walnuts.
✔ Crispy Outside, Tender Inside – Perfect meatball texture!
✔ Super Versatile – Serve with pasta, sandwiches, or on their own.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead & freeze for easy meals!
Final Thoughts – The Best Vegan Meatballs Ever! 🍄✨
💡 These Vegan Mushroom Meatballs are easy, flavorful, and completely satisfying! Whether you serve them with pasta, in a wrap, or as a snack, they’re a perfect plant-based alternative for a hearty, delicious meal.