Ikea Veggie Balls, also known as GRÖNSAKSBULLAR, have become a popular choice for vegetarians, vegans, and health-conscious individuals alike. But what exactly is in these veggie balls? This article will dive into their ingredients, nutritional value, preparation methods, and more.
Ikea Veggie Balls, also known as GRÖNSAKSBULLAR, are made up of chickpeas, green peas, carrots, red bell peppers, corn, and kale, along with a few other ingredients like rapeseed oil, pea protein, onions, and pea starch. They are seasoned with salt, dried cane syrup, yeast extract, dried onion, and various spices. These veggie balls are a vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free food option.
Ingredients
The main components of Ikea Veggie Balls include chickpeas (19%), green peas (15%), carrots (15%), red bell peppers (15%), corn (14%), kale (10%), rapeseed oil, pea protein, onions, and pea starch. The seasoning consists of salt, dried cane syrup, yeast extract, dried onion, spices (rubbed sage, black pepper, bay leaves), dried carrot, dried parsley, and natural extracts of black pepper and turmeric.
These veggie balls are free from animal products, making them a suitable choice for vegans. They are also dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free, catering to a range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
Nutritional Value
A serving of Ikea Veggie Balls (9 balls or 144 grams) provides 250 calories, with 110 calories from fat. It contains 13g total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 0mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 28g total carbohydrate, 7g dietary fiber, 5g sugars, and 12g protein.
Preparation Methods
While the exact recipe for Ikea’s Veggie Balls is not publicly available, there are several copycat recipes that attempt to recreate the dish at home. These recipes typically include a combination of vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, corn, and peas, along with chickpeas and breadcrumbs to help the mixture stick together. The veggie balls are then baked or fried and can be served with various side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or salad.
Recipe Ideas
Ikea Veggie Balls can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, ranging from salads to wraps to hearty main courses. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Vegetable Balls with Baked Celery Root and Gremolata
- Summer Salad with Vegetable Balls
- Sweet Potato Chips and Veggie Balls
- Stuffed Ikea Veggie Ball Wholegrain Wrap
Environmental Impact
Ikea Veggie Balls have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional meatballs. Producing a veggie ball results in a carbon footprint that is 20 times smaller than that of a traditional meatball. By choosing Ikea Veggie Balls over traditional meatballs, you can contribute to reducing your carbon footprint and support more sustainable food choices.
In conclusion, Ikea Veggie Balls are a versatile, nutritious, and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional meatballs. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, these veggie balls are worth trying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ikea Veggie Balls allergen-free?
While Ikea Veggie Balls are free from common allergens like dairy, gluten, and soy, they are produced in a facility that also processes these allergens. Therefore, individuals with severe allergic reactions should exercise caution.
How long do Ikea Veggie Balls last in the fridge?
Once cooked, Ikea Veggie Balls can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Can you freeze Ikea Veggie Balls?
Yes, Ikea Veggie Balls can be frozen. It’s best to freeze them individually on a tray first before transferring to a freezer bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together.
Are Ikea Veggie Balls suitable for a low-sodium diet?
A serving of Ikea Veggie Balls contains 910mg of sodium, which is approximately 40% of the daily recommended intake for an average adult. Therefore, they may not be suitable for a low-sodium diet.
Are there any artificial preservatives in Ikea Veggie Balls?
No, Ikea Veggie Balls do not contain any artificial preservatives. They are made with natural ingredients and are free from GMOs.
