Scrapple is a beloved traditional breakfast dish known for its crispy exterior and savory flavor, but the classic version is made from pork scraps, which doesn’t fit into a vegan lifestyle. That’s where this best vegan scrapple recipe comes in!
It captures all the comforting textures and rich spices of the original, but uses wholesome plant-based ingredients. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro looking to enjoy a nostalgic meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and makes a perfect breakfast or brunch centerpiece. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal weekend project or a special treat for guests.
With a blend of grains, mushrooms, and spices, this vegan scrapple offers a satisfying umami punch and a crispy, golden crust that scrapple lovers will adore. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into making a dish that’s both nostalgic and cruelty-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan scrapple recipe is a game-changer for plant-based eaters and anyone curious about alternative breakfast options. Here’s why it stands out:
- Authentic Flavor: A combination of mushrooms, spices, and grains mimics the savory depth of traditional scrapple.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like cornmeal, oats, and vegetable broth, it’s accessible and affordable.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast or brunch, and pairs delightfully with vegan condiments and sides.
- Textural Delight: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — a satisfying bite every time.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance, slice, and fry when ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal (preferably stone-ground for texture)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or shiitake works best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp ground sage
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, adds a cheesy umami taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter for cooking
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (8×4 inches recommended) or any mold for setting the scrapple
- Skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare the mushroom mixture: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and mushrooms. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
- Add seasoning: Stir in the soy sauce, smoked paprika, ground sage, black pepper, nutmeg, and nutritional yeast (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the mushrooms to absorb the flavors.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal and rolled oats.
- Incorporate vegetable broth: Slowly pour the vegetable broth into the mushroom mixture, stirring continuously.
- Cook the scrapple batter: Gradually add the cornmeal and oat mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens significantly, about 8-10 minutes. It should resemble thick polenta or pudding.
- Set the mixture: Remove from heat and season with salt to taste. Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill the scrapple: Allow the scrapple to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Slice and fry: Once set, remove the scrapple from the loaf pan and slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry slices for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot: Serve your vegan scrapple immediately with your favorite toppings or sides.
Tips & Variations
For the crispiest scrapple, don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain heat and crispiness.
- Mushroom variety: Experiment with different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for varied textures and flavors.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute rolled oats with gluten-free oats and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free tamari.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the mushroom sauté for extra aroma.
- Make it nutty: Toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top before frying add a delightful crunch.
- Storage: Keep leftover scrapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 3.5 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
Vegan scrapple is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your plate:
- Classic breakfast style: Serve with maple syrup or apple butter for a sweet-savory contrast.
- With vegan eggs: Pair alongside scrambled tofu or chickpea omelet for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Sandwiches: Use scrapple slices in a breakfast sandwich with vegan cheese, avocado, and tomato.
- With condiments: Mustard, ketchup, or vegan mayo add extra zing to your scrapple slices.
- Brunch sides: Complement with roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or vegan sausages.
Conclusion
This best vegan scrapple recipe is a delicious tribute to the traditional comfort food many cherish, reinvented with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a savory, hearty breakfast without compromising their dietary choices.
The combination of cornmeal, oats, mushrooms, and spices creates a dish with a rich umami flavor and a satisfying texture that rivals the original.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, this vegan scrapple recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to try it alongside other vegan favorites like our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or sweet treats such as the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
For a savory sauce to accompany your scrapple, check out the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your plant-based breakfast delight!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Scrapple Recipe
Description: A savory, plant-based take on classic scrapple using vital wheat gluten and grains. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT1H
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1/2 cup cooked cornmeal
- 1/2 cup cooked steel-cut oats
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, cornmeal, oats, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt.
- Mix vegetable broth and soy sauce, then add to dry ingredients.
- Add sautéed onion and garlic, stirring to form a dough.
- Knead dough for 3-5 minutes until elastic.
- Press dough into a greased loaf pan.
- Steam loaf for 40 minutes until firm.
- Cool completely, then slice into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Heat remaining olive oil in a pan and fry slices until crispy on both sides.
- Serve warm with your favorite vegan condiments.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 18g
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