Creating the perfect vegan sausage that bursts with flavor, texture, and that unmistakable savory bite can be a culinary challenge. But after countless experiments and taste tests, I’m excited to share this award-winning vegan sausage recipe that has won over both vegans and meat-eaters alike.
It’s packed with wholesome plant-based ingredients, rich spices, and a satisfying bite that mimics traditional sausage perfectly. Whether you’re making breakfast, grilling for a BBQ, or adding a hearty protein to your favorite dishes, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
What makes this vegan sausage stand out is its balance of umami, herbs, and spices combined with a texture that’s firm yet juicy. Plus, it’s completely customizable, allowing you to tweak the spice level or add your favorite herbs.
This is not just a recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone craving a delicious, cruelty-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan sausage recipe is more than just a meatless alternative—it’s a culinary delight that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. You’ll love how simple ingredients transform into mouthwatering sausages with a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender inside.
The recipe is also:
- Highly adaptable: Adjust spices to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Protein-packed: Made with vital wheat gluten and chickpeas for a hearty bite.
- Allergen-friendly: Free from dairy, eggs, and soy, making it suitable for many.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead and freeze for easy meals.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast plates, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or grilled with veggies.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with a vegan dish that truly stands out. For more delicious vegan recipes, be sure to check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe and Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten (the base for the sausage texture)
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (for protein and binding)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (adds cheesy, umami flavor)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (adds richness and color)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for smoky warmth)
- 1 tsp dried sage (classic sausage herb)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, crushed (optional, for authentic sausage aroma)
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth (adjust as needed)
- Natural sausage casings or parchment paper (for shaping)
Equipment
- Food processor (to blend chickpeas and onion)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Steamer or large pot with steaming rack
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper (for shaping sausages)
- Kitchen towel or string (optional, for tying sausages)
Instructions
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Blend chickpeas and aromatics: In a food processor, pulse the cooked chickpeas, sautéed onion and garlic, soy sauce, tomato paste, and vegetable broth until smooth but still slightly textured. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, sage, thyme, black pepper, fennel seeds, and coriander.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the chickpea mixture and flax egg to the dry ingredients. Mix well with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. It should be firm but slightly springy. Add more vegetable broth if too dry, or more vital wheat gluten if too wet.
- Knead dough: Knead the dough on a clean surface for about 3-5 minutes to develop the texture. The dough should be elastic and hold together well.
- Shape sausages: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a sausage shape about 4-5 inches long. Wrap each in parchment paper or natural sausage casings, twisting the ends to secure. If using casings, tie the ends with kitchen string.
- Steam sausages: Place the wrapped sausages in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 30 minutes. This cooks the dough through and firms up the texture.
- Cool and unwrap: Remove sausages from the steamer and let cool slightly before unwrapping.
- Cook sausages: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Pan-fry the sausages, turning frequently, until browned and crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: These sausages are now ready to be enjoyed in your favorite meals!
Tips & Variations
“For a gluten-free version, substitute vital wheat gluten with a blend of cooked lentils and gluten-free flour, though the texture will be softer and less chewy.”
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herb swap: Try rosemary or marjoram instead of thyme for a different herb profile.
- Smoked flavor: Use liquid smoke or smoked salt to enhance the smoky aroma.
- Make it nutty: Add finely chopped toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds for texture variation.
- Freeze for later: Fully cooked sausages freeze well. Reheat by pan-frying or baking from frozen.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Sausage (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 140 kcal |
Protein | 12g |
Fat | 5g |
Carbohydrates | 10g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 290mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan sausage pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:
- Serve grilled alongside sautéed peppers and onions for a classic sausage and peppers meal.
- Slice and add to pasta with marinara or vegan Alfredo sauce for a hearty dinner.
- Use in breakfast burritos with scrambled tofu, avocado, and salsa.
- Place in a toasted Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe with mustard and pickles for a satisfying sandwich.
- Mix chopped sausages into vegan stuffing, inspired by this German Stuffing Recipe, for holiday meals.
Conclusion
This award-winning vegan sausage recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying plant-based cooking can be. By combining wholesome ingredients with simple techniques, you’ll create sausages that boast incredible flavor, texture, and versatility.
Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Making your own vegan sausages allows complete control over flavors and ingredients, perfect for those avoiding preservatives or looking to reduce meat consumption. Plus, the joy of sharing these tasty sausages with family and friends makes the effort even more rewarding.
Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes on our site like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the irresistible Glazed Twist Donut Recipe to round out your culinary repertoire.
Happy cooking and enjoy every savory bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Award Winning Recipe Vegan Sausage
Description: A flavorful and hearty vegan sausage packed with spices and plant-based protein. Perfect for grilling or frying with a crispy outer texture and juicy interior.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 6 sausages
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1/4 cup chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Mix vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, and spices in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk vegetable broth, soy sauce, and olive oil.
- Combine wet ingredients into dry and knead for 3-5 minutes until elastic.
- Divide dough into 6 equal portions and shape into sausages.
- Wrap each sausage tightly in foil.
- Steam sausages for 30 minutes, then unwrap.
- Pan-fry sausages over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side until browned.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 20 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 12 g
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