IKEA Just Launched Plant Based Meatballs That Taste Just Like The Real Thing

IKEA has officially announced the launch of a brand new vegan meatball.

The department store is arguably as famous for its Swedish meatballs as it is for its flatpack furniture.

But plant based shoppers can get in on the fun, too, as its releasing a brand new vegan version of its signature dish, made with yellow pea protein, oats, potatoes, onion and apple.

Now, we know what you're thinking, that sounds rather... healthy.

But IKEA has promised "the same delicious taste and texture" as the OG meatball dish. Yep, really.

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The best part is the vegan creation - which have been in development for a while - have just four per cent of the climate footprint of the original meatball, contributing to IKEA's pact to become climate positive by 2030.

In restaurants, customers will be able to enjoy the new plant based balls in exactly the same way they would the meaty alternative, with mashed potatoes, lingonberries, and cream sauce.

They'll be available to buy at take home at a cost of £2.75 for a 500g bag at the Swedish Food Market, and £1.50 for portion of 8 at any IKEA Bistro, from the 3rd August.

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But you won't be able to enjoy them in a restaurant until October 26th of this year - so, there's a little while to wait.

Hege Sæbjørnsen, Country Sustainability Manager, IKEA UK and Ireland, says: "With the new plant ball we can now offer meat lovers a great tasting, more sustainable alternative - without compromising on the IKEA meatball experience that is loved by so many."

Of course, IKEA already serves vegetarian meatballs, and although these are delicious, they are made mashed up chickpeas, carrots, peas, peppers, sweetcorn, and kale.

The new meatballs join a whole list of plant based dishes, including vegan hot dogs and ice cream, already on the IKEA menu.

In fact, the store now offers a menu which is 50 per cent vegetarian, as part of its mission for a more sustainable future.

The news comes as IKEA recently re-opened to queues around the block as coronavirus lockdown eased.

When the store opened its doors again back in June, lines started as early as 6am, and many stretched on for hours round the block.

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The stores were later forced to warn customers not to come without a list, to avoid peak time if possible to ensure social distancing was possible, and to hold off returning items yet - citing their 365 day return policy.

Topics: Tasty Food, Vegan, IKEA

Joanna Freedman

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected].

@joannafreedman