Barbecued T.V.P. Balls
Delicious barbecued T.V.P. balls feature smoky flavors and savory spices, perfect as an appetizer or snack for vegetarians and fans of hearty, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine boiling water and vegetable bouillon cube in a bowl, stirring until the cube is dissolved.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, and olive oil to the hot water mixture; stir well.
- Stir in T.V.P. into the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Add bread crumbs and egg white to the T.V.P. mixture, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet or grill.
- Cook the T.V.P. balls on a preheated grill or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the mixture. If you're out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Also, ensure the T.V.P. is fully hydrated for the best texture. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the barbecue sauce is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued T.V.P. balls with a side of Vegetable-Olive Salad for a refreshing contrast. These balls also pair beautifully with a dipping sauce, such as extra barbecue sauce or a tangy yogurt sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty grain salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover T.V.P. balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. They can also be reheated in a microwave, but this may affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued T.V.P. Balls contains roughly 391 calories, with 11g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these T.V.P. balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and cook them just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
What can I use instead of T.V.P.?
If you don't have T.V.P., you can substitute it with cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a similar texture. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the substitute used.
Are these T.V.P. balls suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked T.V.P. balls. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).