Spaghetti and Neat Balls
1 cup chickpeas
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for frying
1/2 cup vital wheat gluten
1/2 cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons tamari soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp)
1/2 teaspoon
lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon
thyme 1/2 teaspoon
basil 1/2 teaspoon
oregano 1/4 teaspoon
sage 1 package (12 ounces) spiral pasta
1 small jar pasta sauce
Mash chickpeas and 2 tablespoons olive oil in large bowl, leaving some lumps. Stir in vital wheat gluten, bread crumbs, tamari, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, and 1/4 cup water. Knead by hand 3 to 4 minutes, or until vital wheat gluten begins to form strands and all ingredients are well incorporated. Shape to ping-pong ball size.
Cook pasta according to package directions; warm pasta sauce in saucepan.
Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Sauté Neat Balls 7 minues, or until browned. Drain on paper-towel-lined plate; serve over pasta and sauce.
As prepared, each serving contains 493 calories, 15.5g total fat, 0mg cholesterol, 669mg sodium, 66g total carbohydrate and 23g protein.
