Quinoa & Chickpea Protein Balls
Quinoa & Chickpea Protein Balls — Better Than Meat! 💪🌱
If you’re looking for a protein-packed vegan recipe that’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy to make, these Quinoa & Chickpea Protein Balls are it! They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with spices and nutrients.
Perfect for meal prep, wraps, Buddha bowls, or a snack on the go — this chickpea-based recipe delivers all the flavor and texture of meat, but 100% plant-powered. 🌿✨
🌾 Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed & drained)
- ½ cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed (or 1 tbsp chia seeds)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Blend the base:
Add chickpeas, quinoa, garlic, onion, and olive oil to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is combined but not completely smooth — you want a little texture.
2️⃣ Add seasonings:
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in flaxseed, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything sticks together.
3️⃣ Form balls:
Scoop out about a tablespoon of mixture and roll into small balls. Place on a lined baking tray.
4️⃣ Bake or pan-fry:
- To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
- To fry: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook until golden brown on all sides.
5️⃣ Serve & enjoy:
Serve with hummus, vegan yogurt sauce, or in wraps with fresh veggies!
💡 Tips
✨ Add chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
🔥 Spice it up with chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
🍴 Freeze leftovers — they reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer.
💚 High in protein, fiber, and flavor — these Vegan Quinoa & Chickpea Balls are a total win for healthy eating!
