Vegetarian Romanian Mici (Mititei)

Experience a fresh, plant-based twist on a beloved Romanian classic with this recipe for Vegetarian Romanian Mici (Mititei). Perfectly seasoned with a fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and thyme, these vegetarian sausages capture the smoky, savory essence of traditional mici. Featuring a hearty mix of cremini mushrooms, walnuts, and vital wheat gluten, this recipe delivers a satisfying texture and robust flavor that’s completely meat-free. Quick to prepare in just 45 minutes, these mici are pan-seared to golden perfection and served with classic accompaniments like tangy mustard and crusty bread. Whether you're introducing friends to Romanian cuisine or indulging in comfort food, this vegetarian take on mici is sure to delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 300 grams cremini mushrooms
• 100 grams walnuts
• 150 grams cooked brown rice
• 1 medium red onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 50 grams vital wheat gluten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Start by cleaning and finely chopping the cremini mushrooms. Place them in a food processor along with the walnuts, and process until finely minced, but not pasty.

Step 2

Transfer the mushroom and walnut mixture to a bowl. Finely chop the red onion and garlic cloves.

Step 3

In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the mushroom and walnut mixture to the onion and garlic in the pan. Cook for about 8 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture.

Step 5

Mix in the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 6

Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer it back into the food processor and add the cooked brown rice, soy sauce, black pepper, and vital wheat gluten. Pulse the mixture to combine, ensuring it is well mixed but not overly pureed.

Step 7

Once combined, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small log or sausage shape, approximately 8cm (3 inches) long. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Step 8

Heat the remaining olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the vegetarian mici, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and slightly crispy, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 9

Serve the vegetarian Romanian mici hot with your choice of mustard and fresh bread as traditional accompaniments.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(813.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1449.8

Total Fat 98.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 50.4g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3860.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 89.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.6g	0%
Total Sugars 15.0g
Protein 70.4g	0%

Vitamin D 21IU	0%
Calcium 335.1mg	0%
Iron 12.1mg	0%
Potassium 2444.7mg	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: 57.9%

Protein: 18.5%

Carbs: 23.6%