Vegan Scotch Eggs – Indulge without the Guilt
Welcome, fellow foodies! As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I’m excited to share my vegan Scotch eggs recipe with you today. Let’s face it, traditional Scotch eggs are delicious but not the most vegetarian-friendly dish out there. But, fear not! I’m here to show you how to create a meat-free alternative that’s just as flavorful and satisfying as the original.
My inspiration for this vegan recipe came from wanting to make Scotch eggs suitable for all dietary preferences – neither vegan nor vegetarian should miss out on this classic treat. The key ingredient that replaces the meat is red kidney beans, which give the dish a protein-packed base with a meaty texture. Seasonings such as cumin powder and curry powder elevate the flavor profile of this dish to another level.
Even if you’re not following a plant-based diet, these vegan scotch eggs are worth giving a go. They’re perfect for picnics or as a snack and will impress all your guests with its delicious flavors and meat-free options. So, let’s get started on this epic culinary journey together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old, meat-based scotch eggs? Do you want to try something new and exciting? Look no further than these vegan scotch eggs! Not only are they delicious, but they’re also meat-free, making them a healthy and ethical option.
The combination of red kidney beans, flax seed meal, and spices creates a savory, nutty taste that rivals even traditional scotch eggs. Plus, the cilantro and coconut milk add a touch of freshness that will leave your taste buds singing.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy night at home. And the best part? It’s easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic techniques, you can have perfect vegan scotch eggs in no time.
So why not give this plant-based alternative a try? It’s not only delicious but also environmentally friendly and cruelty-free. Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make a batch of delicious vegan scotch eggs:
- 8 large boiled eggs
- 1 cup of flour
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of pepper
- 1 tbsp of curry powder
- 1 tbsp of cumin powder
- 1 bunch of cilantro, finely chopped
- Red kidney beans, mashed (measure 3 tablespoons)
- Flax seed meal mixed with 4 tablespoons water
- Coconut milk (or any other plant-based milk)
- White rice (boiled)
- Nathan Josias’ vegan sausage (or any vegetarian sausages as a substitute)
The combination of herbs and spices in our recipe gives these vegan scotch eggs an irresistible flavor that will leave your guests begging for more.
The Recipe How-To
Preparation Stage
1. Start by preparing the red kidney beans for the Vegan Scotch Eggs Recipe. Take 1 cup of red kidney beans, rinse them thoroughly under running water, and soak them in water overnight.
2. In the morning, drain the water out of the red kidney beans and put them into a blender or food processor.
3. Add 1 tbsp of curry powder, 1 tsp of cumin powder, a handful of chopped cilantro and a good pinch of salt and pepper to the blender.
4. Blend them all together to form your Vegan Scotch Egg mix.
Getting ready for frying
1. Put some flour on a plate.
2. Mix 3 tablespoons of flax seed meal with 6 tablespoons of water in a bowl and set aside.
3. Drain any excess liquid from the Vegan Scotch Egg mix using a colander or cheesecloth to make sure that the mixture is not too wet to stick to boiled eggs.
Assembling the Scotch Eggs
1. Boil 8 large eggs for 6-8 minutes or until hard-boiled, let them cool down then peel off the shells.
2. Take a handful of the vegan mix and roll it into a ball shape in your hands, about the same size as your hard-boiled egg.
3. Place one hard boiled egg into the center then wrap it up in the vegan mix until it covers completely.
4. Dip each Vegan Scotch Egg into the flax seed mixture, then coat with flour.
Frying process
1. Heat some oil in your pan then place each Vegan Scotch Egg into it – remember to turn them frequently to get an even fry going!
2. Fry until golden brown on all sides before removing from oil and letting it cool for optimum food safety.
Serve hot or cold with mashed potatoes or salad!
Substitutions and Variations
While this vegan Scotch eggs recipe is already pretty versatile, there are still plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some substitution and variation ideas to consider:
– Flour: While we recommend using all-purpose flour, you could also use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a healthier alternative.
– Spices: If you’re not a fan of curry powder, feel free to experiment with other spices like paprika or chili powder.
– Beans: Red kidney beans make up the base of the “sausage” filling in this recipe, but you could use any other type of bean you prefer, like black beans or white beans.
– Potatoes: While mashed potatoes work well for binding the sausage mixture together, you could also try using mashed sweet potato or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
– Vegan sausage: If you don’t have time to make your own vegan sausage from scratch or can’t find it in stores, you could use crumbled vegan sausages instead. In fact, many grocery stores carry a variety of vegetarian sausages that can be used as a plant-based meat substitute.
– Scotch egg variations: While this recipe is for classic vegan Scotch eggs, there are many ways you could switch things up. Try adding chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley to the “sausage” mixture for added freshness and flavor. You could also experiment with different coatings, such as panko bread crumbs or finely grated parmesan cheese.
By experimenting with these substitutions and variations, you’ll be able to create your own plant-based twist on this classic British dish.
Serving and Pairing
These Vegan Scotch Eggs are perfect for a summer picnic, a quick lunch or even as a party snack. Serve them freshly baked or cold from the fridge, they will taste great both ways. They go well with a variety of dipping sauces, like sweet chili sauce or tamarind chutney.
For a complete meal, serve with some sides like mixed green salad, roasted veggies or even some white rice. The crispy outer layer and soft inner texture make these Vegan Scotch Eggs versatile and easy to enjoy with a range of side dishes.
Pair these eggs with some fruity drinks like mocktails or smoothies for a refreshing twist on your usual pairing options. These Vegan Scotch Eggs are made without any meat or dairy, making them suitable for plant-based diets and vegans alike.
If you want to amp up the flavours, try adding some spicy chutneys or pickles to your platter. And since they are meat-free, they can also be served on a vegetarian platter alongside other vegetarian delicacies.
Overall, these Vegan Scotch Eggs fit in perfectly with any event and make for an impressive addition to your menu. Serve them up whichever way you like and get ready to receive all the compliments from your friends and family!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
These vegan scotch eggs are perfect for making ahead of time, storing, and reheating. They are great for meal prep, snacks, or a summer picnic. I recommend making them a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
To store the scotch eggs, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When reheating, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly. Alternatively, microwave them on high for 1-2 minutes.
These vegan scotch eggs also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as part of a brunch menu. Just be sure to portion out accordingly and serve at room temperature for best flavor.
Tip: If you plan on freezing the scotch eggs, do not coat them in breadcrumbs before freezing. Freeze them uncoated and add the breadcrumbs after reheating for best texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make sure your vegan Scotch eggs come out just right, here are some tips to keep in mind.
First and foremost, it’s important to use good quality ingredients. Since we’re making a meat-free version of this classic British dish, using flavorful and nutritious plant-based ingredients will be key to achieving that satisfying taste and texture.
When preparing the filling, take care not to over-mix. While it’s important to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated, overhandling can result in a dense, tough filling. So go easy on the mixing and just aim for a smooth, slightly chunky consistency.
Another trick for achieving a great texture is to use flaxseed meal as an egg substitute. Not only does it bind the mixture together, but it also adds a distinct nutty flavor that perfectly complements the fillings.
When wrapping the eggs, be sure to use enough mixture to fully encase the boiled egg. Too little mixture and you’ll risk exposing the egg while frying or baking, ruining its presentation and texture.
For even cooking, try to get the coating as thin as possible while still covering the egg completely. This will help it cook evenly and prevent any soggy or undercooked spots.
Finally, when frying or baking, keep an eye on the heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to cook the coating quickly without burning it, but not so high that it cooks too fast on the outside while leaving the filling raw inside.
With these tips in mind, you should be able to whip up a perfect batch of vegan Scotch eggs every time. So roll up your sleeves, put on some good music (or rugby match), and let’s get cooking!
FAQ
Now that you have almost all the information you need to make these delicious vegan scotch eggs, let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions and concerns about this recipe that might help you better understand it. Here are some things to keep in mind as you proceed with making your plant-based scotch eggs.
What is a vegan Scotch egg made of?
This recipe for a vegan version of a classic British breakfast includes potatoes and vegan sausage instead of egg and animal-based sausage. The chef, Nathan-Josias, replaces egg whites with an agar agar and cashew milk mixture to ensure the dish still has a satisfying texture.
Can you buy vegan Scotch eggs?
Scotch eggs, a classic British dish, usually feature a hard boiled egg encased in a layer of meat and then deep fried. While not typically suitable for vegetarians or vegans, there are meat-free options available for those who prefer plant-based alternatives. Vegans can now enjoy the dish through vegan scotch eggs which replace the meat with a plant-based patty.
What is the Dutch version of a Scotch egg?
The eierbal is a well-known snack in the eastern and northern regions of the Netherlands, with its roots in Groningen. This Dutch treat is reminiscent of Scotch eggs and features a meat ragù coating with a flavorful addition of curry powder. The key ingredient is a perfectly boiled egg, which is then coated and deep-fried to golden brown perfection.
Why can’t you freeze Scotch eggs?
Contrary to popular belief, it is indeed possible to safely freeze scotch eggs without compromising their taste. Many believe that scotch eggs do not fare well in the freezer, but proper storage can keep them delicious even when consumed at a later time.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the vegan scotch egg recipe is a delicious and nutritious plant-based alternative suitable for any meat-free diet. It is easy to make, perfect for summer picnics, and packed with essential nutrients. With a combination of potatoes, red kidney beans, and flax seed meal wrapped around a boiled egg and seasoned with curry powder, cumin powder, and cilantro, the vegan scotch eggs recipe offers an authentic taste that will delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re a vegan or vegetarian looking for an egg-free alternative or just someone who wants to try something new while enjoying the traditional flavors of a classic Scotch egg, this recipe is a must-try. With simple substitutions and variations depending on your personal preference, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste.
So don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try – it’s neither vegan nor vegetarian Scotch eggs nor eggs recipe but an incredible plant-based alternative impossible not to appreciate. The ingredients are easy to find in shops such as Tesco which sell broad beans, vegan sausages, plant-based flour among other needed items. The result is satisfying enough to make you forget about traditional Scotch eggs as you enjoy guilt-free eating.
Whether you’re looking for something different to bring to your next picnic or just want to enjoy some new flavors in your meals at home, the vegan Scotch eggs recipe will not disappoint you. So why not try it out and see for yourself? You won’t regret it!
Vegan Scotch Eggs Recipe
Ingredients
- 80 g mashed potatoes
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 210 g white rice
- 150 ml coconut milk
- 150 ml water
- 1 tablespoon flax seed meal
- 2 1/2 tablespoons water
- 1 (425 g) can red kidney beans
- 2 tablespoons cilantro or 2 tablespoons coriander
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 80 g flour, gluten-free
Instructions
- Boil potatoes until fork tender.
- Mash potatoes with curry powder in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper then set aside.
- Combine rice, water, and coconut milk in a pot. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Combine flaxmeal and water in a small bowl and leave to bloom for 5 minutes.
- Process red kidney beans, cumin powder, flaxmeal mixture, salt, and pepper into a paste in the food processor.
- Transfer to a bowl together with the chopped cilantro and GF flour. Mix into a dough.
- Form the scotch eggs. Roll cooked coconut rice into balls, making an indentation in the middle. Fill the dent with a scoop of the curry mashed potatoes and seal with more rice. Enclose the rice balls with a layer of the bean mixture.
- Sear in a lightly oiled skillet and bake in at 180C/360F for 15 minutes.
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.