Meatballs became a staple in kitchens around the world. From classic beef, pork, and veal blends, to lamb meatballs, to Chef Mario’s legendary version, there are multiple recipes across different cultures on how to make an excellent meatball. However, those who have moved to a plant-based vegetarian diet miss out on this culinary stalwart and may be experiencing some longing for a plate of meatballs like grandma used to make. While this recipe isn’t quite how your grandma used to make it, this vegetarian-forward method gives you and your family a new twist on a comfort classic; meatless meatballs. 

How Exactly Does One Make Meatless Meatballs?

Meatless Meatballs might sound like a challenge, but the actual recipe and ingredients involved are not that far out of the ordinary. They are all ingredients that you can find in your local supermarket’s produce and deli sections. Chef Mario’s way of making meatless meatballs involves bringing fresh produce, cheese, and breadcrumbs together to mimic the taste and feel of traditional meatballs. 

Sauteed spinach and fresh ricotta cheese make up the main body of the meatless meatball. Both ingredients contain moisture that needs to be rendered or squeezed out before the cooking process begins. Any excess moisture will throw the binding off, necessitating more breadcrumbs and making the final product too bready. Maintaining the textural balance is vital for creating a similar eating experience for the meatless meatballs. 

One of the biggest problems non-vegetarians have, when it comes time to try a vegetarian recipe, is the lingering doubt that it will not measure up taste-wise to the meat-centric option. It’s the style of food that they most likely grew up eating and are used to having a meat-centric diet that anything outside of that paradigm will have trouble measuring up to. Using Chef Mario’s recipe and techniques, you can combine classic Italian flavors and ingredients with a plant-forward approach to cooking and embrace a new path forward in regards to the food you make for yourself and your family. 

Are you looking for an event planning company in Philadelphia for after the ban on large gatherings? Or perhaps a corporate catering company in Montgomery County, PA? If so, contact Catering by Mario’s to learn more about our services and book us for your next event!