Vegetarian Makanek (Lebanese Sausages)

Discover a flavorful twist on a Lebanese classic with this Vegetarian Makanek recipe! These plant-based sausages pack all the aromatic spices and bold flavors of traditional makanek but are crafted using textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a delicious meat-free alternative. Infused with cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cumin, these sausages are seasoned to perfection, while garlic, onions, and parsley lend a fresh, savory depth. Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, these vegetarian makanek are pan-fried to golden-brown perfection and make a versatile accompaniment—serve them as an appetizer, pair with warm pita bread, or enjoy them alongside a vibrant salad. Perfect for both vegetarians and spice lovers, this recipe is an irresistible way to explore authentic Lebanese flavors in plant-based form!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Textured vegetable protein (TVP)
• 1 cup Vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Allspice
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Cumin
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons Chickpea flour (or gram flour)
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Salt

Directions

Step 1

In a bowl, combine the textured vegetable protein (TVP) with the vegetable broth. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 2

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until they become translucent.

Step 3

Add the cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, cumin, nutmeg, and paprika to the skillet, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Transfer the soaked TVP to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the soy sauce and continue to cook for another 3 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Add chopped parsley, chickpea flour, breadcrumbs, and salt. Mix thoroughly to form a cohesive dough-like consistency.

Step 6

Form the mixture into small sausage shapes, approximately the size of traditional Makanek sausages.

Step 7

Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Place the vegetarian sausages in the skillet, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 8

Serve warm as an appetizer or with bread and a side salad as a main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(717.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1498.4

Total Fat 51.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4979.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 143.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.3g	0%
Total Sugars 21.7g
Protein 121.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 509.0mg	0%
Iron 26.2mg	0%
Potassium 4671.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.3%

Protein: 32.0%

Carbs: 37.7%