This Easy Savory Chickpea Lentil Sausage is a treat for your taste buds! Loaded with hearty chickpeas and lentils, it packs a punch with bold spices that bring flavor to every bite.
You’ll love how simple it is to mix everything together and shape them into yummy sausages. Serve them on a bun or enjoy them with your favorite sides—so satisfying! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: These give the sausage a great base. If you’re short on time, canned chickpeas are perfect! You can also substitute with white beans for a slightly different flavor.
Lentils: I prefer green or brown lentils for their texture, but red lentils can work too; just keep in mind they may create a softer sausage. You can also use any cooked legume if lentils aren’t available.
Oats or Breadcrumbs: Rolled oats help bind the sausage while adding a nice chew. You can swap rolled oats with breadcrumbs if you have them on hand. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work too for a GF version!
Spices: The bold spices really enhance the flavor. Don’t have smoked paprika? Try regular paprika. Feel free to mix in other spices you love, like garlic powder or thyme, for your personal twist!
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness to the sausage. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or green onions for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Sausages?
Getting the right texture for your sausages is key to enjoying them! Here’s how to do it:
- Blend your chickpeas and lentils just until coarsely ground. You want a mix of smooth and chunky for a pleasing bite.
- Check the mixture — it should hold together when squeezed. If it’s falling apart, gradually add water or broth until it holds its shape well.
- If you’re using casings, make sure they’re tightly packed but not overly stuffed or they might burst during cooking.
Refrigerating the sausages for at least an hour helps them firm up, which is crucial for maintaining their shape while cooking!
Easy Savory Chickpea Lentil Sausage with Bold Spices
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed if canned)
- 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
- 1/2 cup rolled oats or breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, crushed (optional for a sausage-like flavor)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1-2 tbsp water or vegetable broth (as needed)
- Sausage casings or parchment paper/plastic wrap for shaping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare all the ingredients and mix them together, plus 1 hour to chill in the fridge. Cooking the sausages will take another 10-30 minutes, depending on your method. All in all, you’ll be enjoying these delicious sausages in about 1 hour and 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas and lentils. Pulse the mixture until it is coarsely ground, being careful not to puree it—leave some texture for a nice bite!
3. Mix Ingredients Together:
Transfer the coarsely ground mixture to a large bowl. Add the sautéed onion and garlic, along with the rolled oats (or breadcrumbs), soy sauce, tomato paste, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, crushed fennel seeds (if using), black pepper, dried herbs, chili flakes (if desired), and salt. Mix everything until well combined.
4. Bind the Mixture:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Then, add water or vegetable broth, one tablespoon at a time. Your mixture should be sticky enough to shape into sausages but not overly wet. It should hold when squeezed.
5. Shape the Sausages:
If you’re using sausage casings: Rinse and soak them according to the package instructions. Carefully stuff the mixture into the casings, twisting at intervals to create links of your desired size. If not using casings, scoop the mixture onto parchment paper or plastic wrap and shape it into logs, rolling tightly and twisting the ends to secure.
6. Chill the Sausages:
Refrigerate the shaped sausages for at least 1 hour to help them firm up, which will make cooking easier and keep their shape.
7. Cook the Sausages:
To cook, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausages for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly until they are browned and cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve your delicious sausages hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy them on buns, in wraps, or alongside your favorite sides for a hearty meal!
These Easy Savory Chickpea Lentil Sausages are a delicious and nutritious plant-based alternative that is rich in flavor, perfect for any occasion!
FAQ: Easy Savory Chickpea Lentil Sausage with Bold Spices
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas and Lentils Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before using them in the recipe. For lentils, cook them according to package instructions until they’re soft. Make sure to measure after cooking!
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs and ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free (look for tamari). This makes the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities!
How Should I Store Leftover Sausages?
Leftover sausages can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can heat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through!
Can I Freeze These Sausages?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked sausages! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating.
What Can I Serve With These Sausages?
These sausages are delicious served on a bun with your favorite toppings, or alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even pasta. They pair well with mustard, avocado, salsa, or your choice of dipping sauces!
