Delicious Vegan Lentil Breakfast Sausages Recipe
Are you in search of a hearty and satisfying breakfast recipe that is both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than this lentil breakfast sausage recipe! Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them the perfect ingredient for vegan and vegetarian dishes. Plus, these lentil sausages are gluten-free and packed with flavor.
But what gives breakfast sausages their distinct flavor? It’s usually a combination of seasonings like sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. In this recipe, we’ve added a few more herbs like dried fennel, rosemary, and cayenne pepper to give these patties a spicy kick.
This easy vegan sausage recipe features a mix of red and brown lentils blended with rolled oats and other gluten-free ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious vegetable protein. The texture is reminiscent of Italian sausage – which makes them perfect when you want to add a bit of zing to your breakfast.
So don’t settle for bland breakfast choices that leave you feeling unfulfilled. Try this vegan lentil breakfast sausage recipe instead for a nutritious start to your day that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for something healthy and flavorful to kickstart your day? Look no further than these delicious lentil breakfast sausages!
What gives these sausages their hearty, savory flavor is the combination of herbs and spices like sage, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and fennel. The cayenne pepper adds just a touch of heat that will wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them. And the best part? These sausage patties are completely vegan!
But don’t let the plant-based ingredients fool you – these lentil sausages are packed with protein and fiber, making them a filling and satisfying breakfast option. Plus, the lentils in this recipe are a great source of iron and other essential nutrients.
One of the things I love about this recipe is how easily it can be tailored to your preferences. For example, if you’re gluten-free, simply swap out the flour for a gluten-free alternative. And if you’re not a fan of certain herbs or spices, feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
So why should you give these lentil breakfast sausages a try? They’re easy to make, flavorful, and packed with plant-based goodness that will leave you feeling energized all morning long. Plus, they’re a great option for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetarian or vegan meals into their diet.
Trust me – once you sink your teeth into one of these sausage patties, you’ll wonder how you ever started your day without them!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious vegan breakfast sausage patties. Make sure to measure out and have all your ingredients ready before starting the preparation process.
- Lentils: You will need 1 cup of dried brown lentils and 1 cup of dried red lentils. Rinsed thoroughly.
- Liquid: You will need broth and water both at a ratio of 2 cups broth to 1 cup of water (see note).
- Whole wheat flour: to bind the sausages together, you will need 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour.
- Rolled oats: You’ll need 1/2 cup of rolled oats for texture and thickness.
- Ground flaxseed: acts as a binder that holds the patties together. You will need ¼ cup of ground flaxseed.
- Vital wheat gluten: is a vegetable protein that provides a chewy texture. You will need 1/4 cup of vital wheat gluten.
- Vegetables such as carrots, onion, and garlic provide texture, flavor, and nutrients. Quartered 1 large carrot and chop 1 medium onion, while using 1 tablespoon of olive oil to cook them. For garlic powder use 1 teaspoon.
- Spices: The combination of spices adds depth and flavor to the lentil breakfast sausage recipe. We will be using garlic powder (1 tsp), onion powder (1 tsp), cayenne pepper (¼ tsp), dried thyme leaves (2 tsp), dried rosemary leaves (2 tsp), dried fennel seeds (2 tsp), ground sage (2 tsp), ground black pepper (1 tsp) and salt according to your taste preference.
- And lastly, an egg or its vegan substitute, which in this case is maple syrup.
Remember that there are several substitutions available like gluten-free flour that can be used instead of whole wheat flour or green lentils can be used instead of brown lentils – experiment around with the ingredients and create your version of this popular vegan breakfast sausage recipe!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to move on to the recipe. In this section, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of making these delicious Lentil Breakfast Sausages. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Step 1: Prepare Lentils
Firstly, take a large pot and add 3 cups of water along with 1 cup of rinsed red lentils, then place the pot over MEDIUM heat. Once done, let them simmer for around 20 minutes or until they become tender. Afterwards, drain off the excess water and allow them to cool.
Step 2: Prepare Veggie Sausage Mixture
Take a food processor and add 1 ½ cups of cooked red lentils along with ¾ cup of rolled oats, 1 peeled and roughly chopped carrot, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tbsp of dried fennel, 2 tsp of dried thyme leaves, 2 tsp of dried rosemary leaves, 1 tsp each of salt and black pepper, and one small egg (you can use a flax egg instead for vegan). Pulse until a thick mixture forms.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add in ½ cup of whole wheat flour, ¼ cup of vital wheat gluten (skip if you are gluten-free), and 1 tbsp of ground flaxseed. Pulse everything again until a cookie dough-like batter comes together.
Step 4: Cook Sausages
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with some olive oil. Shape the veggie sausage mixture into round patties about ¼ inch thick or however you like it. Place them in the skillet and cook each side for around 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
4 servings — Bon Appétit!
There you have it! Once your Lentil Breakfast Sausages are lightly crispy on both sides , remove them from heat & serve them accompanied by any side dish that you prefer like toast, scrambled eggs & avocado or even on a piece of bagel with cream cheese or maple syrup drizzle on top – be creative! It’s also perfect to make any day ahead as they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze up to three months.
Substitutions and Variations
As with most recipes, you can change things up to best suit your preferences and dietary needs. While this recipe calls for specific ingredients, there are always different variations to try for a different twist on the dish.
For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the flour and rolled oats for gluten-free flour and oats. You can also use coconut flour or almond flour if you prefer.
If you want to add some more vegetables to your breakfast sausage patties, feel free to mix in finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers in place of carrots.
To make the recipe vegan-friendly, omit the egg and instead use a flaxseed mixture as a binding agent. Combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens before mixing into the lentil mixture.
For those who enjoy spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of garlic powder for more flavor.
If you’re short on time, skip the lentil cooking process altogether and use canned lentils instead. Just be sure to rinse them well before adding them to the mixture.
Overall, there are endless possibilities when it comes to substitutions and variations with this breakfast sausage recipe. Experiment and find what works best for you!
Serving and Pairing
These lentil breakfast sausages are extremely versatile and can be served with a variety of your favorite dishes. You can simply add them to your cozy morning breakfast platter, or use them in breakfast sandwiches and burritos. They’re also excellent with mashed sweet potatoes or crispy hash browns.
Looking for a more adventurous pairing? Try serving these sausages with a side of lightly dressed arugula or spinach, along with sliced avocado and a smear of spicy harissa sauce on top. The lentils in the sausages complement the bitter greens, while the harissa adds a nice kick of heat.
These sausages are also excellent for meal prep. Pair them with some roasted vegetables or salad greens for a healthy lunch or dinner option. You can also chop them up and add them to pasta dishes, casseroles, stews, and soups for an added protein boost.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, try serving these sausages on a bed of quinoa or brown rice instead of bread. They’ll still taste delicious and provide all the nutrients you need to start your day off right.
Whatever way you choose to serve these lentil breakfast sausages, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their rich, savory flavor and meaty texture, they’re perfect for anyone looking for an easy vegan alternative to traditional breakfast sausage patties.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you want to make these lentil breakfast sausages ahead of time, you can store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze them, simply let the sausage patties cool down completely and transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. If you’re using a freezer bag, make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing it.
When you’re ready to enjoy your lentil breakfast sausages, you can either reheat them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side. I find that reheating them in the skillet gives the best results as it helps crisp up the outside of the sausages.
If you want to use these sausages in a recipe such as a lentil casserole or spicy sausage stew, they will hold up well and add a delicious flavor to your dish. Simply cook them according to the instructions and add them to your dish.
It’s important to note that these sausages tend to be more delicate than traditional pork sausages, so handle them with care when reheating or adding them to your dish. But don’t worry, even if they do break apart a bit, they’ll still taste delicious!
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to create the perfect Lentil Breakfast Sausages, here are some of my helpful tips to ensure success every time.
Firstly, when making your sausage patties, make sure the mixture has the right consistency. It should be firm enough to hold together but not too dry or crumbly. If your mixture is too wet, add in some additional whole wheat flour or rolled oats. If it’s too dry, mix in a little bit of water until it becomes pliable.
Secondly, be sure to preheat your skillet or griddle over a medium heat before adding your patties. Cooking them at too high of a temperature can result in uneven cooking and an unappetizing texture.
Thirdly, don’t overcrowd your skillet or griddle with too many patties at once. They need enough space to cook properly and develop a golden brown color. Cook your sausage patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once halfway through cooking.
Fourthly, if you’re making vegan breakfast sausages using vital wheat gluten, be careful not to overmix the ingredients as this can result in a tough and chewy texture. A quick mix is enough to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Fifthly, if you want your Lentil Breakfast Sausages to have an extra kick of flavor and spice, consider adding more cayenne pepper or black pepper to the recipe. Just be careful not to go overboard and overpower the other flavors in the dish.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to find the best combination that suits your taste buds. You can try swapping out dried rosemary for dried thyme, or adding in some onion powder for a slightly sweeter taste.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked Lentil Breakfast Sausages ready to enjoy in no time!
FAQ
As we cook and experiment with new recipes, we may come across some questions that are not addressed in the recipe instructions. That’s why in this section, I have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot any issues and have perfect results every time you make these lentil breakfast sausages. So, let’s dive into it!
What gives breakfast sausage that distinct taste?
The distinct flavor of breakfast sausage comes from a mixture of various spices and herbs, such as fennel, sage, and thyme. Other flavors like rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper may also be added to enhance the taste.
How do you make Morningstar breakfast sausage?
First, it’s important to get your skillet heated up before we start cooking. I recommend using a non-stick skillet and preheating it over a medium heat setting. Once your skillet is heated, give it a light spray of cooking oil. This will help prevent the links from sticking to the skillet while they cook.
Now it’s time to place the frozen links in the skillet. Make sure to space them out evenly so they cook properly. We’ll be cooking the links over a medium heat setting for approximately 12-13 minutes. It’s important to turn the links occasionally during the cook time to ensure they’re cooked evenly on all sides.
What are veggie sausage patties made of?
The ingredients used in making vegan breakfast sausages consist of TVP, oats, flour, chia or flax seeds, and a blend of spices and seasonings.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this lentil breakfast sausage recipe is a game-changer for those who are looking for a vegan, gluten-free option that is packed with flavor and protein. With the right combination of ingredients like sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder, these sausages deliver an irresistible taste while still being healthy.
Additionally, this recipe offers plenty of options for substitutions and variations to make it your own. From swapping the type of lentils used to adjusting the level of spice with cayenne pepper, there are many ways to customize this breakfast sausage recipe to your preference.
Furthermore, these lentil sausages work great in a variety of dishes beyond just breakfast – from soups and stews to casseroles and more. The possibilities are endless!
Finally, I highly recommend taking advantage of the make-ahead, storing, and reheating tips provided in this article to ensure that you can enjoy these lentil sausages any time of the day with minimal prep work.
Overall, this lentil breakfast sausage recipe is one that I guarantee will satisfy all your cravings while still maintaining healthy ingredients. Whether you’re a vegan or not, you’re sure to love this dish!
Lentil Breakfast Sausages Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup dried red lentils
- 2/3 cup dried brown lentils
- 2 1/2 cups water or 2 1/2 cups broth
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour or 1/2 cup any other flour
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried ground sage
- 1 teaspoon dried fennel, crushed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Cook lentils in water for 40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Don’t drain off any excess water.
- Blend ¾ of lentil mixture using immersion blender, or mash with a fork or potato masher.
- Mix with all other ingredients; press firmly into loaf pan or muffin tin that has been greased or lined with parchment paper. Be sure to fill all the corners.
- Bake @ 350 for 45-50 minutes, 40 minutes for a muffin tin.
- Let cool in pan before slicing.