Vegetarian sausage rolls are the perfect blend of savory comfort food and plant-based goodness. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to try something new, these crispy, golden-brown rolls are a delicious alternative to the classic meat-filled version. Imagine flaky puff pastry with a satisfying, herby filling that packs in plenty of flavors, without sacrificing texture or taste. They make for a fantastic snack, appetizer, or even a satisfying lunch.
But what makes vegetarian sausage rolls so special? Well, they’re incredibly versatile, easy to make, and can be packed with a wide range of ingredients that cater to all kinds of dietary preferences. Whether you’re using lentils, mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based sausage alternatives, the options are endless. Plus, with a few expert tips and tricks, you can get them just right every time.
So, if you’re ready to take your plant-based culinary skills to the next level, let’s dive into this vegetarian sausage roll recipe, break down the ingredients, and explore some fun variations!
Vegetarian Sausage Rolls Recipe
This recipe brings the warmth and comfort of traditional sausage rolls but with a plant-based twist. The filling is hearty and flavorful, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down. Paired with a buttery puff pastry that crisps up beautifully in the oven, these rolls are sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed
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Puff Pastry (1 Sheet)
- You can buy pre-made puff pastry from most stores or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s essential for achieving that golden, flaky exterior.
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Vegetarian Sausage (2-3)
- There are plenty of store-bought veggie sausage options like Beyond Sausage, Field Roast, or even the classic Quorn variety. You can also use lentils or mushrooms as a base if you’re going for a more homemade filling.
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Onion (1 Medium, Finely Chopped)
- Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the filling.
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Garlic (2 Cloves, Minced)
- Essential for that rich, savory flavor.
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Mushrooms (100g, Chopped)
- Mushrooms give the sausage rolls a bit of “meatiness” and add umami, balancing out the other ingredients.
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Breadcrumbs (¼ Cup)
- Helps bind the filling together and gives it a light, airy texture.
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Chopped Fresh Herbs (2 Tbsp)
- Parsley, thyme, and sage are all fantastic choices, offering a fresh, earthy flavor to the rolls.
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Soy Sauce (1 Tsp)
- Just a dash enhances the savory, umami profile of the filling.
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Mustard (1 Tsp)
- Adds a bit of tang to cut through the richness of the pastry.
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Salt And Pepper (to Taste)
- Season generously to balance the flavors.
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Non-dairy Milk (for Brushing The Pastry)
- Gives the rolls that golden, glossy finish without using egg wash.
Cooking Instructions
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Preheat The Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot, ensuring a crisp, golden finish on your rolls.
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Prepare The Filling
In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until soft and fragrant-about 3-5 minutes. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they’re tender, which should take another 5 minutes. Now, crumble in your vegetarian sausages (if using) or add cooked lentils. Stir everything together. Add the breadcrumbs, soy sauce, mustard, herbs, and seasoning, and mix until well combined.
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Roll Out The Pastry
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry. If using a pre-made sheet, you’ll want to make sure it’s about 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. Cut it into two equal rectangles.
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Assemble The Rolls
Place half of your filling along the center of each pastry rectangle. Carefully fold the pastry over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing down with a fork. Slice each roll into individual pieces-about 3-4 per roll depending on the size you want.
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Bake
Transfer the rolls to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with some non-dairy milk for that golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
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Serve
Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re perfect on their own or with a side of chutney or salad.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s break down the science behind some of the key ingredients in this recipe to understand what makes each one work:
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Puff Pastry
Puff pastry is essentially made up of layers of dough and fat, creating a flaky texture when baked. As the dough heats up in the oven, the moisture in the fat turns to steam, causing the layers to expand and puff up. It’s what gives the sausage rolls their airy, crispy texture.
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Vegetarian Sausage
These sausages are often made from plant-based proteins like soy, wheat gluten, or pea protein. When cooked, they mimic the texture and flavor of meat. Many of these sausages also contain spices and seasonings that give them that signature sausage flavor.
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Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a great way to add ’umami’ to a dish. This savory, meaty taste comes from compounds like glutamate, which is naturally present in mushrooms. They also absorb the flavors of the other ingredients, adding complexity to the filling.
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Breadcrumbs
The role of breadcrumbs in this recipe is simple but crucial-they bind the filling together and give it a slightly airy texture. When mixed with liquid ingredients, the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, creating a light, cohesive filling.
Expert Tips
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Make Ahead
You can prepare the rolls and freeze them before baking. Simply assemble the rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.
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Avoid Overstuffing
While it may be tempting to cram as much filling as possible into the rolls, it’s important to leave some room for expansion. Overstuffing could cause the pastry to burst or not cook evenly.
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Customize The Filling
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try adding grated carrots, mashed sweet potatoes, or lentils. The key is to balance the moisture of your filling so the pastry doesn’t get soggy.
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Use High-Quality Puff Pastry
Not all puff pastry is created equal. For the best results, opt for a high-quality, all-butter puff pastry (or plant-based if you prefer). It makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations
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Spinach And Feta Rolls
Swap out the vegetarian sausage and mushrooms for spinach and crumbled vegan feta cheese. This makes for a light, savory filling that’s just as satisfying.
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Smoky Tempeh Filling
If you love smoky flavors, try using crumbled tempeh with smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke. The tempeh provides a slightly nutty, chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the richness of the pastry.
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Curry-Spiced Rolls
For an exotic twist, add some curry powder to the filling. You can even mix in peas, diced potatoes, and cashews for a hearty, Indian-inspired version of vegetarian sausage rolls.
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Cheese-Stuffed Rolls
If you’re okay with dairy, adding some shredded cheese to the filling can make the rolls extra indulgent. Vegan cheese works well too if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Final Words
Vegetarian sausage rolls are a fantastic option for anyone craving a hearty, satisfying snack without the meat. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a picnic, or just need something quick for lunch, these rolls are sure to impress with their flaky, golden exterior and flavorful filling. They’re easy to make, customize, and they freeze well, so you can always have a batch on hand for when the craving hits.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
To make vegetarian sausage rolls, you will need puff pastry, vegetarian sausage filling (which can be made with ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, or tofu), onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and seasonings such as thyme, sage, and salt. You can also use a plant-based egg wash or olive oil for glazing.
Can I Use Store-bought Puff Pastry For Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry to save time. Make sure to check the label for any animal-based ingredients, as some puff pastries contain butter. Opt for a plant-based puff pastry if needed.
How Can I Make The Filling For Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
The filling can be made by sautéing onions and garlic, then adding mashed cooked lentils, mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh. You can mix in breadcrumbs and seasonings like nutmeg, thyme, sage, or smoked paprika. For a smoother texture, blend the filling until well combined.
How Do I Get Crispy Golden Sausage Rolls?
To achieve a crispy golden finish, brush the rolled pastry with a plant-based egg wash or olive oil before baking. Ensure your oven is preheated to a high temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.
Can I Freeze Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
Yes, vegetarian sausage rolls can be frozen. Assemble the rolls, then freeze them before baking. Once frozen, you can bake them directly from the freezer or let them thaw for a few hours before baking. This is ideal for meal prepping.
How Can I Make The Vegetarian Sausage Rolls Spicier?
To make your vegetarian sausage rolls spicier, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped fresh chili to the filling mixture. Adjust the level of spice according to your taste preference.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pastry For Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
Yes, you can use shortcrust pastry, filo pastry, or even a whole-wheat variant for a healthier alternative. Each type will produce a slightly different texture, with puff pastry being the most popular for its flakiness.
How Long Do Vegetarian Sausage Rolls Last?
Vegetarian sausage rolls can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. If frozen, they can last up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven for best results, as microwaving may soften the pastry.
What Can I Serve With Vegetarian Sausage Rolls?
Vegetarian sausage rolls are delicious on their own or served with dips like tomato ketchup, vegan mayo, or mustard. You can also pair them with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Are Vegetarian Sausage Rolls Gluten-free?
Vegetarian sausage rolls made with traditional puff pastry and breadcrumbs are not gluten-free. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free puff pastry and breadcrumbs, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.