Savor the comforting warmth of this Vegetarian Beef Meatball Soup, a hearty and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Made with plant-based ground "beef," these tender and savory meatballs are infused with Italian herbs and bound together with a nutrient-packed flaxseed egg. Nestled in a rich tomato and vegetable broth filled with onions, carrots, celery, and a hint of thyme, this soup is a nourishing, protein-packed meal that's perfect for cozy dinners. Quick to prepare in just an hour, this dairy-free and meat-free recipe is ideal for both vegetarians and flexitarians craving a satisfying bowl of wholesome goodness. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy a soul-soothing dish thatβs as nutritious as it is delicious.
In a small bowl, combine the flaxseed meal and water. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken, creating a flax egg.
In a large mixing bowl, combine plant-based ground 'beef', breadcrumbs, thickened flax egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 16-20 meatballs.
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside on a plate.
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sautΓ© for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
Add the browned meatballs to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the meatballs are heated through.
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Calories |
2061 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 96.4 g | 124% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.2 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5780 mg | 251% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 236.2 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 42.2 g | 151% | |
| Total Sugars | 56.5 g | ||
| Protein | 95.4 g | 191% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 649 mg | 50% | |
| Iron | 25.2 mg | 140% | |
| Potassium | 5414 mg | 115% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.