Ingredients:

• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• For the Pastry:
  • 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen
  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing) or plant-based milk for a vegan option
  • Sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, grated carrots, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix everything together until you achieve a well-combined, slightly sticky mixture. If the filling seems too dry, add a little more olive oil or a splash of water. Stir in fresh parsley if desired.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the sheet into 2-3 long strips (depending on how large you want the sausage rolls).
   • Spoon the filling mixture down the center of each strip, leaving space on either side of the filling.
   • Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling and pinch or press the edges to seal. Turn the rolls seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Cut and Brush:
   • Cut each long roll into smaller individual sausage rolls.
   • Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg (or plant-based milk for a vegan version).
   • Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the sausage rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with ketchup, mustard, or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Chef’s Tips:

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble and bake the rolls.
• Freezer-Friendly: These sausage rolls freeze well. Simply reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

Enjoy these delicious, flaky vegetarian sausage rolls as a snack, appetizer, or light meal!