Best Ever Vegetarian Sausage Recipe for Flavorful Meals

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add some delicious plant-based options to your meals, this best ever vegetarian sausage recipe is a must-try. Packed with rich flavors, satisfying textures, and wholesome ingredients, these sausages are a fantastic alternative to traditional meat-based links.

Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they bring a hearty and savory punch that will impress even the most dedicated carnivores. Plus, making your own vegetarian sausage at home means you can customize the spices and seasoning to match your personal taste.

Say goodbye to store-bought options with preservatives and hello to fresh, homemade goodness that’s easy to prepare and freezes beautifully for busy days ahead.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will change the way you think about vegetarian sausages? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it combines the best of plant-based ingredients, resulting in sausages that are juicy, flavorful, and have a perfect snap. The secret lies in the blend of beans, grains, and spices enhanced with umami-packed ingredients that mimic the richness of traditional sausages.

Not only is this recipe highly customizable, but it’s also budget-friendly and allergen-conscious, using common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you want them spicy, smoky, or herby, these sausages can easily adapt to your preferred flavor profile.

Plus, making them yourself ensures no hidden additives or preservatives, giving you a wholesome and nutritious meal option. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love our Jimmy Dean Copycat Sausage Recipe for another homemade sausage delight!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked cannellini beans (or any white beans), drained and rinsed
• 3/4 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
• 1/2 cup vital wheat gluten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth (warm)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
• Natural sausage casings or parchment paper for shaping (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Plastic wrap or sausage casings (if shaping links)
• Steamer or large pot with steaming rack (optional)
• Spatula or tongs

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: In a food processor, combine the cooked cannellini beans and cooked quinoa. Pulse a few times until coarsely mashed but still retaining some texture. Alternatively, use a potato masher for a chunkier consistency.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Combine wet ingredients: Add the tomato paste, soy sauce, olive oil, and warm vegetable broth to the mashed beans and quinoa mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Form the dough: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spoon or your hands, mix quickly until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes to activate the gluten, which helps the sausages hold together and develop a chewy texture.
5. Shape the sausages: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a sausage shape by rolling it in your hands or using parchment paper to help form tight links. If you have natural sausage casings, you can stuff the dough into casings for a more authentic look.
6. Cook the sausages: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil. Brown each sausage on all sides, about 3 minutes per side, until golden and firm.
7. Steam for tenderness: Transfer the browned sausages to a steaming rack over boiling water. Cover and steam for 20 minutes. This step helps the sausages firm up and develop the perfect texture.
8. Final sear: After steaming, return the sausages to the skillet and sear again for 1-2 minutes per side to crisp up the exterior.
9. Serve and enjoy: Let the sausages cool slightly before serving. They can be sliced for sandwiches, served whole for breakfast, or added to your favorite dishes.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free version, substitute vital wheat gluten with a blend of chickpea flour and ground flaxseed, but note the texture will be softer and less chewy.”

• Spice it up: Add fennel seeds or chili powder for a kick.
• Herb swap: Fresh rosemary or parsley can add a fresh twist.
• Cheesy option: Mix in some shredded vegan cheese before shaping.
• Make it smoky: Use liquid smoke or more smoked paprika to intensify the smoky flavor.
• Freeze for later: Wrap uncooked sausages tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian sausages are incredibly versatile. Serve them with classic breakfast sides like scrambled tofu and roasted potatoes for a hearty morning meal.

They also work beautifully sliced into a bun with sautéed peppers and onions for a delicious sandwich or as a protein-packed addition to pasta dishes.

For a fusion twist, try pairing them with our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a fresh and modern meal. Or, incorporate chopped sausages into a rich tomato sauce alongside pasta, inspired by the flavors from our Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe.

For a comforting winter meal, slice and add to a skillet with sautéed kale and garlic, inspired by techniques in our Kale Tonic First Watch Recipe. The sausage adds a savory touch that complements the greens perfectly.

Conclusion

Creating your own vegetarian sausages is not only rewarding, but it also opens the door to endless flavor possibilities. This best ever vegetarian sausage recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty texture and rich taste, making it a fantastic addition to any meal plan.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these sausages will bring a delicious plant-based option to the table that everyone can enjoy.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs and spices to suit your palate, and remember that fresh, homemade food has a way of bringing people together. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other creative dishes like the Magic Dough Recipe for amazing homemade bread or the festive Marzipan Challah Recipe to complete your cooking repertoire.

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