Il Cucinologo
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Soy Meatball Skewers with Vegetables

17/11/2023

Here is the recipe for soy meatball skewers with vegetables, suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Remember that if some of the ingredients are not available to you, I can suggest alternatives.

Ingredients

  • 200 g of granular soy or ground soy
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 1 small eggplant
  • Breadcrumbs as needed
  • 1 small onion
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper as needed
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Soy sauce (optional)
  • Aromatic herbs to taste (basil, rosemary, thyme)
  • Toothpicks or wooden skewers

Preparation

  1. First, hydrate the granular soy following the instructions on the package, usually by pouring hot water over it and letting it rest for about 10-15 minutes. If using ground soy, I recommend hydrating it so it becomes suitable for shaping the meatballs.

  2. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: wash and cut the zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant into pieces that are not too large so they can be threaded onto the skewers.

  3. Drain and squeeze the soy well to remove excess liquid. Transfer it to a large bowl.

  4. Finely chop the onion and garlic and add them to the soy along with the parsley, salt, pepper, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a tablespoon of soy sauce for an extra touch of flavor. Mix everything well.

  5. Add breadcrumbs to the soy mixture until you obtain a solid consistency that can be shaped into small meatballs.

  6. Form meatballs the size of a walnut and set them aside.

  7. Once you have formed all the meatballs, you can start assembling the skewers by alternating vegetables and meatballs. If using toothpicks, prepare mini skewers with a few pieces on each; if you have longer skewers, you can include more vegetables and meatballs.

  8. Heat a grill or non-stick pan and brush with a little oil. Cook the skewers over medium-high heat, turning them occasionally until the vegetables have softened and the meatballs have taken on color.

Fun Facts

Soy is a legume highly valued in vegetarian and vegan diets for its high protein content. In this recipe, soy meatballs represent an excellent plant-based alternative to classic meat meatballs, while maintaining a rich flavor and pleasant texture. Soy meatball skewers with vegetables are an example of how it is possible to create tasty and appetizing dishes while respecting a diet based on plant ingredients.