07.09.2009 Have Balls, Will Travel

A bit of a change from the usual sweet fare seen here. And I’ll refrain from making (too many) ball-related jokes, so as not to offend the too-easily-offended offendees.

Don’t be frightened by the applesauce in this: the recipe has already been tested by quite a few ball fiends, and they were all unanimous in claiming their love for this quick, easy and tasty recipe. But if you really are a bit of a scaredy cat, just use pumpkin instead. I’ll still have respect for you, bros. And bras.

I ate these as a sandwich with roasted bell pepper, and it was good. I think these 8 balls are enough to feed 2 moderately hungry hippos, but if you have a big appetite, consider doubling the recipe. Or double it anyway and freeze the leftovers for another evening when you’re struck by ball envy.

See? Made it through the whole post without too many sick ball jokes. My mom is very proud, indeed.

Meatfree BBQ Balls:

4 ounces (112 g) unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin purée
2 tablespoons (30 ml) peanut (or other) oil
2 tablespoons (15 g) nutritional yeast
1/4 cup (36 g) vital wheat gluten
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, to taste
1/2 cup (40 g) whole wheat (or regular) panko breadcrumbs
As much of your favorite BBQ sauce as you need to coat the balls, and then some (at least 1/4 cup [60 ml])

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C, or gas mark 5). Have a small baking sheet and a piece of parchment paper at hand.
Combine applesauce or pumpkin purée, oil, nutritional yeast, gluten, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in panko crumbs until everything is well combined. Use your hands if you want, by golly.
Divide and shape resulting preparation into 8 balls of equal size.
Place the balls in the center of the parchment paper, fold paper over balls. Place wrapped balls on baking vessel, folded side down.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until light golden brown. Unwrap balls, coat with BBQ sauce. Leave unwrapped and bake for another 8 minutes.

Yield: 8 Meatfree Balls