Black Bean Feta Meatballs Recipe
These Black Bean Feta Meatballs are a delicious vegetarian twist on classic meatballs, combining the earthy flavor of black beans with fragrant mint, garlic, and spicy chili flakes. Lightly pan-fried to a golden crisp, these meatballs are perfect served with a fresh salad and creamy avocado or yogurt-based sauce for a wholesome meal or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 meatballs
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Black Bean Mixture
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup mint leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp feta, crumbled
Cooking Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Mash the Black Beans: Rinse and drain the black beans, then place them in a large bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the beans thoroughly until they reach a chunky, but combined consistency.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the chopped mint leaves, minced garlic, chili flakes, black pepper, coriander, cumin, and crumbled feta cheese into the mashed beans. Stir everything together until evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into walnut-sized patties or meatballs. Set them aside on a plate or directly prepare them for cooking.
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium to medium-high heat and add the tablespoon of olive oil, swirling to coat the surface evenly.
- Cook the Meatballs: Place the formed meatballs onto the skillet carefully. Cook for several minutes on each side, flipping gently to avoid breaking, until they turn golden brown and crisp on all sides.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked black bean feta meatballs onto a serving plate. Serve warm alongside a fresh salad and complement with avocado slices or a cooling yogurt-based sauce for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Make sure to mash the beans well but leave some texture for the meatballs to hold their shape.
- If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a small amount of breadcrumbs or oats to bind it better.
- Cooking on medium heat is key to allow the meatballs to brown without falling apart.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
- These meatballs can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes for a healthier option, turning halfway through.
Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/black-bean-feta-meatballs-recipe/
