Sausage Crumbles

These savory Sausage Crumbles are the perfect addition to any breakfast main dish. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, they are sure to become a favorite on your breakfast table. Made with cracked freekeh, these sausage crumbles offer soy-free potential, making them a versatile option for various dietary preferences. Customize the level of spiciness by adding cayenne pepper for an extra kick or leaving it out for a milder flavor. Whichever way you choose, these sausage crumbles will add a delightful twist to your breakfast spread.

YIELD: This recipe yields 8 servings of delectable and flavorful Sausage Crumbles.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 1/4 cups (295 ml) water
• 1/2 cup (92 g) cracked freekeh
• 1 tablespoon (7 g) ground flaxseed
• Generous pinch of fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) organic ketchup
• 2 teaspoons (5 g) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne (optional), or more to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray, for cooking
• High heat neutral-flavored oil, for cooking

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, cracked freekeh, ground flaxseed, and a pinch of fine sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture becomes very thick. It should easily stay on one side of the pot when stirred to that side. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Stir in the organic ketchup, onion powder, paprika, ground fennel seeds, garlic powder, rubbed sage, ground black pepper, pure maple syrup, dried thyme, and ground cayenne (if using) into the freekeh mixture.
3. Heat a thin layer of neutral-flavored oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Crumble the sausage mixture into the skillet and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10 to 14 minutes.

SERVING OPTIONS:

Here are some delicious serving options to enjoy the versatile and flavorful Sausage Crumbles:

• Breakfast Burrito: Stuff warm tortillas with the Sausage Crumbles, along with scrambled tofu or eggs, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and your favorite vegan cheese. Roll them up for a satisfying and hearty breakfast burrito.
• Sausage and Biscuits: Serve the Sausage Crumbles over freshly baked vegan biscuits and top with vegan gravy or a drizzle of maple syrup for a classic Southern-style breakfast.
• Breakfast Bowl: Create a breakfast bowl with a base of cooked quinoa, brown rice, or greens. Top it with the Sausage Crumbles, sliced avocado, roasted sweet potatoes, and a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or tahini dressing.
• Savory Oatmeal: Prepare a savory oatmeal bowl by combining cooked steel-cut oats with the Sausage Crumbles, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
• Breakfast Hash: Make a hearty breakfast hash by sautéing the Sausage Crumbles with diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
• Vegan Pizza: Use the Sausage Crumbles as a delicious plant-based pizza topping. Spread marinara sauce over a pizza crust, sprinkle the crumbles over the sauce, add your favorite vegetables, and bake until crispy.
• Veggie Sandwich: Layer the Sausage Crumbles on whole-grain bread with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and a smear of vegan mayo or mustard for a flavorful and filling veggie sandwich.
• Breakfast Tacos: Fill soft taco shells with the Sausage Crumbles, diced avocado, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a quick and tasty breakfast taco.
• Sausage and Grits: Serve the Sausage Crumbles over creamy vegan grits with a side of sautéed greens for a comforting and hearty breakfast.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the Sausage Crumbles as a filling for stuffed bell peppers along with cooked quinoa or rice, chopped vegetables, and vegan cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Enjoy these savory crumbles as a delightful side to any breakfast main dish. Whether you choose to add a bit of spiciness with cayenne pepper or prefer a milder version, these sausage crumbles will bring a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication to your breakfast spread. Perfect for those following a soy-free diet, this versatile and easy-to-make recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.