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Vegan BBQ Black Bean Meatballs Recipe

3.8 from 87 reviews

These Vegan BBQ Black Bean Meatballs are a delicious and hearty plant-based alternative to traditional meatballs. Made with black beans, oats, and a blend of spices, they are cooked in a flavorful homemade BBQ sauce that is smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet. Perfect for serving with rice, salads, or on their own, this recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s entirely vegan.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 cup Bob’s Red Mill rolled oats
  • 1 400 ml can of black beans (strained and drained)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus some for cooking
  • 1 heaped tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup white onion (roughly chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • 2 tbsp flax seeds
  • 1 1/2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp hot sauce

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium white onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
  • Season to taste (salt and pepper)
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tbsp coconut sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp vegan Worcester sauce
  • 1/21 tsp liquid smoke
  • 2 tbsp molasses (optional)

Garnish

  • Fresh mint

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: Add all the meatball ingredients into a food processor and blend until fully combined. Ensure there is no loose flour from the oats, as this indicates thorough blending.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into balls using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop to measure. Note that the size of the meatballs affects cooking time. Place the rolled balls into the fridge to chill while preparing the BBQ sauce.
  3. Make the BBQ Sauce: Heat olive oil in a medium pot over low heat for 1 minute. Add the finely chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the remaining BBQ sauce ingredients and simmer on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then use a hand blender to thicken and blend the sauce. Set aside.
  4. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan for about 1 minute. Add the meatballs and cook for approximately 1 minute on each side to brown them lightly. Pour in the desired amount of BBQ sauce and cover the pan. Cook on medium heat for 5-6 minutes until the meatballs are hot and steamed through. Test by cutting one open to ensure it is fully cooked and steaming.
  5. Serve: Serve the vegan BBQ black bean meatballs hot, accompanied by rice, salad, or enjoyed on their own. Garnish with fresh mint for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Adjust hot sauce quantity according to your spice preference.
  • Chilling the meatballs before cooking helps them hold together better.
  • Molasses in the BBQ sauce is optional but adds depth and sweetness.
  • Ensure to stir BBQ sauce often to prevent scorching when simmering.
  • These meatballs can be frozen after forming for future meals.

Keywords: Vegan meatballs, black bean meatballs, BBQ vegan recipe, plant-based meatballs, vegan dinner, healthy vegan meal