# Vegetarian Chickpea and Eggplant Meatballs

This "meatball" recipe is diet-friendly, low in fat, high in fibre and plant-based protein, and packed with heart-healthy nutrients, making them a nutritious and satisfying option for the whole family.

- Servings: 8 servings
- Total time: 40 min
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Dinner
- Language: en

## Ingredients

- 1 medium aubergine/eggplant
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 garlic clove
- 0.5 cup canned chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- fresh basil leaves
- paprika
- oregano
- Salt
- pepper
- chopped parsley

## Instructions

1. Peel and dice the eggplant into small cubes. Do the same with the carrot.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic with some chopped parsley or basil for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced eggplant, carrot, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft.
3. Let the cooked veggies cool, then transfer them to a food processor. Add the chickpeas, fresh basil (or parsley), and 1 tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs. Blend until a coarse mixture forms (it should hold together when shaped).
4. Form the mixture into 8 balls. For versatility, make smaller ones for tomato sauce or larger ones for dipping.
5. Place the balls in an air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
6. Pair with a garlicky yogurt dip or toss them in your favorite marinara sauce.

## Equipment

- knife
- cutting board
- non-stick pan
- wooden spoon
- food processor
- air fryer
- bowl

## Tips

- Only 1 WW point for 2 meatballs!
- These vegetarian chickpea and eggplant meatballs are also perfect for sneaking in veggies and protein, making it kid-friendly with a familiar, fun shape.
- These can be enjoyed on their own with a dip or shaped smaller to add a healthy boost to your favorite tomato sauce.

## Source

- Original video: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYlWxkI3Ex/
- Recipe page: https://www.cliprecipe.com/recipe/d17b9e0a-ac18-417e-889c-073f019dceeb
- Extracted: 2025-10-20

Extracted from the video by Clip Recipe (https://www.cliprecipe.com). Quantities and steps are as stated or shown in the video. Site guide for agents: https://www.cliprecipe.com/llms.txt