Are you craving savory, flavorful sausage but want to keep things plant-based? Look no further! This recipe for homemade vegan sausage is surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick and satisfying dinner. Forget those bland, processed vegan sausages you find in the supermarket; this recipe delivers a hearty, homemade taste that will impress even the most dedicated carnivores. It's a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 1 pound of vegan sausage.
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green work well)
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon bread crumbs (panko recommended)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by cooking your brown rice and lentils according to package directions. Ensure they are completely cooked and cooled before proceeding. This is a crucial step for the best texture.
Sausage Assembly:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and mushrooms and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, lentils, sautéed vegetables, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Stir in the breadcrumbs. This helps bind the sausage mixture and gives it a nice texture.
Cooking the Sausage:
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Shape the mixture into sausage links or patties, depending on your preference. You can use your hands or a sausage stuffer for a more professional look.
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Heat a little more olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the vegan sausages in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your sausages.
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor, use a good quality smoked paprika.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. Italian seasoning, sage, or rosemary would also be delicious additions.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help it hold its shape.
- For crispier sausages, you can broil them in the oven for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
- Breakfast Sausage: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup for a sweeter flavor.
- Italian Sausage: Replace the smoked paprika with Italian seasoning and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 8g
This recipe provides a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade vegan sausage! It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and let me know what you think!