Vegetarian Bratwurst Recipe That Tastes Amazing

If you’re craving the classic taste of bratwurst but want to keep things meat-free, this vegetarian bratwurst recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy those bold, savory flavors without compromising your dietary choices.

Perfect for summer barbecues, cozy dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, these veggie sausages are packed with wholesome ingredients and spices that deliver the satisfying texture and taste we all love in a traditional brat.

Using plant-based proteins and a blend of herbs and seasonings, this recipe is both nourishing and delicious.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to make these sausages at home. Plus, they’re free from artificial additives and preservatives found in many store-bought options.

Let’s jump into the recipe and discover how to bring this tasty vegetarian bratwurst to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian bratwurst recipe is a winner for multiple reasons. First, it’s made from natural, wholesome ingredients that provide plenty of protein and fiber, making it a healthy alternative to traditional sausage.

The texture is pleasantly firm yet juicy, mimicking the bite of meat without any animal products involved.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can grill, pan-fry, or bake these bratwursts, making them suitable for any cooking method you prefer.

They pair wonderfully with classic brat toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, and grilled onions, but also work great in pasta dishes or even sliced on a salad.

Finally, this recipe is customizable. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking or swap out ingredients for what you have on hand.

It’s a great base for experimenting with different flavors and making the bratwurst truly your own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed if canned)
• 1 cup cooked white beans (cannellini or navy beans work well)
• 1/2 cup vital wheat gluten (for binding and texture)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (adds a cheesy, umami flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for depth of flavor; use gluten-free tamari if needed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (lightly crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup oat flour (or any flour of choice)
• Butcher’s twine or parchment paper (for shaping sausages)

Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Mixing bowl
• Large saucepan or pot (for steaming)
• Steamer basket or rack
• Frying pan or grill pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scissors or butcher’s twine
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using canned chickpeas and white beans, rinse and drain them well. If cooking from dry, ensure they are soft and fully cooked.
2. Pulse the aromatics: In a food processor, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Pulse until finely minced but not pureed. This ensures even distribution of flavor.
3. Blend the beans: Add the cooked chickpeas and white beans to the food processor along with the onion and garlic. Pulse several times until the mixture is broken down but still retains some texture.
4. Add dry ingredients and spices: Transfer the bean mixture to a large bowl. Add the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, oat flour, smoked paprika, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, black pepper, coriander, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine.
5. Incorporate wet ingredients: Stir in the soy sauce and olive oil. Gradually add the vegetable broth while mixing the dough with your hands or a spoon until a firm, elastic dough forms. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
6. Shape the bratwursts: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a sausage shape about 5-6 inches long. Wrap each sausage tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and twist the ends to secure like a candy wrapper. Alternatively, you can tie the ends with butcher’s twine.
7. Steam the sausages: Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan. Place a steamer basket or rack inside the pot above the water level. Arrange the wrapped sausages in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for 30 minutes. This cooking step firms up the sausages.
8. Cool and unwrap: Remove the sausages from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly. Unwrap from parchment or plastic wrap gently.
9. Cook the bratwursts: Heat a lightly oiled frying pan or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the sausages for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
10. Serve and enjoy: Place the cooked vegetarian bratwursts on buns or plates and add your favorite toppings and sides.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage to personalize your bratwurst.”

To make these bratwursts gluten-free, substitute the vital wheat gluten with a mix of chickpea flour and gluten-free flour blends, though the texture will be slightly different.

If you want a spicier brat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes. For a milder version, omit the cayenne entirely.

Try adding finely chopped mushrooms or grated carrots for additional moisture and a unique flavor twist.

These sausages freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw before cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian bratwurst in a toasted bun with classic toppings like grilled onions, sauerkraut, and your favorite mustard or ketchup. For a lighter option, slice the bratwurst and add it to a warm potato salad or grain bowl.

They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, try topping them with a homemade vegan bechamel sauce or serve alongside some spicy slaw from our vegetarian Tex Mex recipes.

For more creative vegetarian meal ideas, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals which offer vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

Making your own vegetarian bratwurst at home is not only rewarding but also a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food without the meat. This recipe balances texture, flavor, and nutrition, providing a protein-packed, savory sausage that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re grilling in the summer or enjoying a cozy meal in the colder months, these bratwursts bring warmth and satisfaction to your plate.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, by making them yourself, you avoid preservatives and additives common in store-bought options.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a tasty, wholesome bratwurst experience that everyone will love!

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