Mushroom Walnut 'Meatballs'

Step 1

1 Preheat the oven to 375 degrees

Step 2

2 Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper

Step 3

3 Make a chia "egg" by stirring together the chia seeds and water in a small bowl

Step 4

4 Let it stand and thicken for at least 10 minutes

Step 5

5 Combine the shiitakes, creminis, walnuts, onion, parsley, balsamic vinegar

Step 6

6 Italian seasoning, garlic, salt and pepper in a food processor

Step 7

7 Pulse until all the ingredients are combined and evenly chopped, but not pureed

Step 8

8 Add the chia egg and pulse just until incorporated

Step 9

9 Transfer to a mixing bowl and fold in the flour, using your hands as needed to make sure the flour is evenly distributed

Step 10

10 The mixture will be a little sticky

Step 11

11 Take 2 tablespoons of the mixture, shape into a ball and place on the baking sheet

Step 12

12 Repeat to make 18 balls of equal size

Step 13

13 Lightly brush each ball with oil

Step 14

14 Bake (middle rack) for 25 minutes, until firm and browned on the bottom

Step 15

15 NOTE: Toast the walnuts in a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat, until fragrant and lightly browned, shaking the pan to avoid scorching

Step 16

16 Cool completely before using