Need another use for lentils? Try out these Air Fryer BBQ Lentil Meatballs! Chewy and flavorful on the inside, while slightly crunchy on the outside, then slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce.
I’ve gotta be honest, I’ve been hogging this recipe all to myself for some time now. I had originally made it for the #VYAPantryChallenge, before moving, but I got so caught up in everything that I lost track of it. Even though I wanted the challenge to be a set amount of time, I think these types of recipes are still super helpful! What do you think?
And, before I tell you more about these delectable BBQ lentil meatballs, I have an important announcement. Vegan Yack Attack On the Go! has its new cover, and is totally on pre-sale!! I’m so happy with how the design and photo turned out, and I hope you love it, too. Just remember, that through Amazon you can get pre-sale price guarantee, so if the price drops (it always does), you will pay the lowest amount no matter when you ordered it.
Now, back to the BBQ lentil meatballs! I had SO many people commenting about using up lentils, and of course, I had some of those in my pantry. Along with the lentils, I had some dried mushrooms and a little BBQ sauce leftover that I didn’t want to move with. Put all of that together with the timing of me getting an air fryer and BLAM! This recipe came about.
I tried a couple of versions of this recipe, and this one is definitely my favorite. The addition of Vital Wheat Gluten to the lentils, acts as a great binder, plus adds a chewy texture. That being said, you can make these gluten-free by using GF vegan Worcestershire and GF flour, but you may have slightly crumbly lentil balls. While using raw onions could be a shortcut, you miss out on the added sweetness and flavor from caramelizing them.
So, go on, make these tasty BBQ lentil meatballs for your next party (paired with some suuuuper cute toothpicks), and enjoy! Make sure to tag me @veganyackattack & #veganyackattack if you try them out. ❤