Albanian cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, with dishes like qofte (meatballs) holding a special place in the hearts of many. However, as the world shifts towards more sustainable and compassionate eating habits, there’s a growing demand for vegan alternatives that honor both tradition and innovation.
This is why we created the recipe by adding a hearty blend of white short-grain rice, mushrooms, and a flavorful spice mix. Coated in breadcrumbs and pan-fried perfection, the vegan meatballs can be served over hot rice, making for a satisfying and compassionate twist on a Balkan classic.
Vegan Albanian Meatballs Recipe
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 40 min
Servings: 4
Ingredients:

- 1 cup white short-grain rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
- 2 large cloves garlic
- 1/2 pound button mushrooms, coarsely chopped
- 6 shitake mushrooms, chopped
- 1 tbsp dried spice mix (ground cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Vegan Albanian Meatballs (Step-by-Step)

- Cook the rice according to the package directions; it will take about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, blend the ingredients, except the oil and breadcrumbs, in your blender or food processor.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs (golf-ball-sized). Roll them over the breadcrumbs.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet and fry your meatballs until they are cooked through or about 5 minutes.
- Garnish your meatballs with fresh mint leaves, if using, and serve over hot rice, if desired.

Bon appétit!
Cook’s Note
People in the Balkans prefer white rice over the other types. You can substitute white rice with brown rice or even buckwheat for a healthier version of Balkan-style meatballs.
Fresh parsley can be a great substitute for mint in this vegan dish with Balkan flair.
If you love Albanian cuisine but want to try vegan recipes, check out how to make the famous traditional byrek.
Nutrition Facts About Vegan Albanian Meatballs
* Optional items are not included
(Amount per 200g = 1 serving)
Vitamins | Values |
---|---|
Vitamin A | 134 IU |
Vitamin B-1 (Thiamin) | 0.417 mg |
Vitamin B-2 (Riboflavin) | 0.366 mg |
Vitamin B-3 (Niacin) | 5.807 mg |
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic acid) | 2.022 mg |
Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin) | 0.02 µg |
Vitamin D | 9 IU |
Vitamin E | 1.07 mg |
Vitamin K | 5.9 µg |
Minerals | Values |
---|---|
Calcium | 24 mg |
Magnesium | 31 mg |
Phosphorus | 155 mg |
Iron | 3.13 mg |
Potassium | 414 mg |
Sodium | 30 mg |
Zinc | 1.31 mg |
Copper | 0.374 mg |
Selenium | 17.2 µg |
Manganese | 0.761 mg |
Other nutrients | Values |
---|---|
Calories | 308 |
Total Carbohydrates | 53.4 g |
Protein | 7.2 g |
Total Fat | 7.5 g |
Sugars | 4.2 g |
Fibre | 3.7 g |
Folate, total | 125 µg |
Author
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Sara embodies the definition of creativity in her role as a content creator on our team. As a native Albanian, she focuses on writing qualitative pieces, mostly well-researched articles and informative blog posts. She also plays a key role in creating engaging social media posts to build a like-minded community of Albanian lovers and keep them engaged. Her qualifications, among others, include a Reuters-accredited certificate in journalism, language certification, internship experience in Bucharest, and training in digital marketing. If Sara’s not on her desk creating content, you might find her reading a good book or penning her thoughts in her diary.
You can also find her words on Momentum Group, Bulls Media Albania, 112hub, and Ajroni.