Transform plant-based into pure delight: easy vegan chicken nuggets for the whole family
What To Know
- With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delectable treat that rivals any traditional chicken nugget.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, cornstarch, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until a dough forms.
- Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a healthier alternative, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Indulge in the irresistible crunch and savory taste of homemade vegan chicken nuggets with our easy vegan chicken nuggets recipe. This plant-based delight is perfect for satisfying cravings, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a guilt-free snack. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delectable treat that rivals any traditional chicken nugget.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, cornstarch, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Shape the Nuggets: Divide the dough into small, nugget-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a nugget shape.
4. Coat the Nuggets: In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each nugget into the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Fry the Nuggets: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded nuggets to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the Nuggets: Remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your easy vegan chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Vegan Chicken Nuggets
- For extra flavor, marinate the dough in your favorite seasonings for at least 30 minutes before shaping.
- Use a variety of breadcrumbs for a more complex texture. Try using panko breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs.
- To make the nuggets healthier, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve the nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
Variations
- Buffalo Vegan Chicken Nuggets: Toss the cooked nuggets in a mixture of buffalo sauce and vegan butter.
- Honey Mustard Vegan Chicken Nuggets: Serve the nuggets with a honey mustard dipping sauce made from vegan honey and Dijon mustard.
- BBQ Vegan Chicken Nuggets: Brush the nuggets with barbecue sauce before baking or frying.
- Teriyaki Vegan Chicken Nuggets: Marinate the nuggets in teriyaki sauce before cooking.
Nutritional Information
One serving (4 nuggets) of easy vegan chicken nuggets contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
Takeaways: The Joy of Homemade Vegan Chicken Nuggets
With our easy vegan chicken nuggets recipe, you can now enjoy the crispy and flavorful taste of chicken nuggets without compromising your values or taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a healthier alternative, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and experience the joy of homemade vegan chicken nuggets today!
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use other types of plant-based milk instead of vegetable broth?
A: Yes, you can use any unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
Q: How can I make the nuggets gluten-free?
A: To make the nuggets gluten-free, substitute the vital wheat gluten with a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Can I freeze the vegan chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked nuggets for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the nuggets on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen nuggets to an airtight container. To reheat, thaw the nuggets overnight in the refrigerator and then cook according to the instructions.
Q: What is the best way to store the cooked nuggets?
A: Store the cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the nuggets in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I make the nuggets ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the nuggets ahead of time and cook them later. To do this, prepare the nuggets according to the instructions and then freeze them. When ready to cook, thaw the nuggets overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as directed.