Vegetarian Breakfast Sausage Recipe for Easy Morning Meals

Starting your day with a hearty, flavorful breakfast can set the tone for the entire day. But what if you want to enjoy the classic comfort of breakfast sausage without the meat?

Our vegetarian breakfast sausage recipe offers a delicious, plant-based alternative that’s packed with savory spices and a satisfying texture. These sausages are perfect for anyone looking to cut down on meat or embrace a vegetarian lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

Plus, they’re easy to make at home with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!

This recipe combines wholesome ingredients like vital wheat gluten, beans, and a medley of spices to create flavorful sausages that crisp up beautifully in a pan. Whether you’re serving them alongside eggs, tossing them into a breakfast sandwich, or crumbling them over a skillet of potatoes, these vegetarian sausages will quickly become a breakfast favorite.

Ready to make your mornings more exciting? Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian breakfast sausage can often feel bland or overly processed, but this homemade version is different. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:

• Rich in flavor: A blend of aromatic spices including sage, fennel, and smoked paprika make these sausages irresistibly tasty.
• Great texture: The combination of vital wheat gluten and chickpeas creates a firm, meaty bite that holds up well during cooking.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust spices to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead friendly: These sausages can be frozen and reheated, saving you time on busy mornings.
• Healthy and wholesome: Made from plant-based ingredients with no artificial additives or preservatives.

Plus, making your own breakfast sausage means you know exactly what goes into your food — no hidden fillers or excessive sodium!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or one 15 oz can, drained and rinsed)
• 3/4 cup vital wheat gluten
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth

Equipment

• Food processor or high-powered blender (for blending chickpeas and aromatics)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper (for shaping sausages)
• Steamer basket or pot with lid (optional, for steaming)
• Spatula or tongs

Instructions

1. Prepare the chickpea base: In a food processor, combine cooked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and maple syrup. Pulse until the mixture forms a coarse, sticky paste. You want some texture, so avoid over-blending into a smooth puree.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, dried sage, thyme, crushed fennel seeds, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt.
3. Combine wet and dry: Add the chickpea paste to the dry ingredients. Pour in the vegetable broth gradually while stirring to form a dough. Use your hands to knead the dough in the bowl for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic and slightly springy.
4. Shape the sausages: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a log shape about 4-5 inches long. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, twisting the ends to secure.
5. Cook the sausages: You have two options here:
   • Steaming: Steam the wrapped sausages for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and develop a nice texture.
   • Boiling: Alternatively, you can simmer them in water for 20-25 minutes. Just ensure the water is gently simmering, not boiling vigorously.
6. Cool and unwrap: Remove the sausages from the steam or water and let them cool slightly before unwrapping. This makes them easier to handle.
7. Pan-fry to finish: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the sausages and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and crispy on the outside.
8. Serve and enjoy! These sausages are delicious on their own or as part of a full breakfast spread.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free version, substitute vital wheat gluten with a blend of chickpea flour and ground oats, and add an extra tablespoon of flaxseed for binding.”

Here are some helpful tips to perfect your vegetarian breakfast sausages:

• Spice it up: Adjust the spice levels to your liking. Add more cayenne for heat or swap smoked paprika for sweet paprika for a milder flavor.
• Herb variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can add a fresh twist. Add finely chopped fresh herbs just before shaping.
• Make-ahead: These sausages freeze beautifully. After steaming and cooling, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by pan-frying or baking.
• Oil-free option: Use a non-stick pan and skip the oil for a lower-fat version.
• Add vegetables: Finely diced mushrooms, grated carrots, or zucchini can be mixed into the dough for added nutrition and texture.

Nutrition Facts

This nutritional profile makes these sausages a great way to add protein and fiber to your breakfast without excess fat or calories.

Serving Suggestions

To make your vegetarian breakfast sausage a true morning delight, try these serving ideas:

• Classic breakfast plate: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, and sautéed greens for a balanced meal.
• Breakfast sandwich: Layer sausage slices with vegan cheese, avocado, and tomato on a toasted English muffin or bagel.
• Breakfast burrito: Crumble the sausage and combine with black beans, salsa, and scrambled tofu wrapped in a warm tortilla.
• Salad topping: Slice and pan-fry sausages to add a smoky, savory element to a warm grain and kale salad.
• With pancakes or waffles: Serve as a savory companion to sweet breakfast favorites for an exciting contrast.

For more delicious vegetarian ideas, check out Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or satisfy your sweet tooth with our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious. You might also enjoy pairing your breakfast sausage with fresh homemade bread — try our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

Homemade vegetarian breakfast sausage is a game-changer for anyone wanting a tasty, meat-free start to the day. With simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create sausages bursting with flavor, texture, and wholesome nutrition.

The ability to customize spices and add your favorite herbs or veggies means this recipe can be tailored to your personal taste.

Not only does this recipe offer a satisfying alternative to traditional breakfast sausages, but it also promotes mindful eating by using whole food ingredients. Whether you’re a committed vegetarian or simply exploring plant-based options, these sausages will become a staple in your kitchen.

Make a batch for your next weekend brunch or freeze some for quick weekday mornings.

Don’t forget to explore our other vegetarian recipes to keep your meals exciting, healthy, and full of flavor!

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