Don’t worry, vegans, you won’t feel left out at summer barbecues! We’ve got plenty of grilling options that will satisfy both vegans and meat-eaters alike. From soy-based meat alternatives to delicious grilled vegetables and innovative skewer combinations, you’re in for a treat!
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Soy-Based Meat Alternatives
Soy-based alternatives like veggie burgers, sausages, and hot dogs can be grilled just like their non-vegan counterparts. Just make sure to cook them separately from meat products. Here are some popular vegan soy alternatives:
- Amy’s All-American Veggie Burger
- Boca Original Vegan
- Cedar Lake’s Deli Franks (available at VeganEssentials)
- Turtle Island Food’s Tofurky Beer Brats
Flavorful Shish Kabobs
Try an all-veggie version of shish kabobs using your favorite vegetables. Brush them with a simple marinade or oil and spices for an irresistible grilled treat.
- Simple Veggie Kabob: Skewer red onions, green peppers, and yellow squash, then brush with a mixture of olive oil, black pepper, and seasoned salt.
- Tempeh Veggie Kabob: Combine the assorted veggies of your choice with marinated tempeh using a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir-Fry Kabob: Create a stir-fry on a stick! Skewer tofu, red onions, baby carrots, green peppers, and zucchini. After grilling, coat the skewers in teriyaki sauce.
Perfectly Grilled Vegetables
Grilling enhances the flavors of many vegetables, but some are not suitable for the grill. Avoid grilling cucumbers, celery, and leafy greens, as their high water content doesn’t produce ideal results.
For a delicious grilled side dish, try grilled potatoes and onions (wrapped in foil with seasoning and olive oil or vegan butter) or a tasty eggplant mix. Be sure to monitor the veggies on the grill and use proper tools like foil or skewers when necessary.
Grilled Tofu, Tempeh, or Seitan
Grilling tofu, tempeh, or seitan gives them a whole new dimension of flavor. While barbecue sauce is always a hit, here are some other ideas for each product:
- Tofu: Marinate tofu in any desired flavor, as it readily absorbs seasonings. Marinate for up to an hour before grilling and ensure it is pressed. Try Italian-inspired grilled tofu with a simple marinade of Italian dressing.
- Tempeh: With its stronger flavor, tempeh pairs well with a marinade of soy sauce and sugar.
- Seitan: Made from wheat, seitan is a fantastic meat substitute and grilling option. Feel free to get creative with your marinades and seasonings.
Enjoy these vegan grilling options, and you’ll never feel left out at a barbecue again! Happy grilling!
More Vegan Grilling Ideas and Tips
Now that you’re equipped with some great vegan grilling ideas, here are some additional tips and options to ensure your next barbecue is a hit for everyone!
Grilled Fruit
Grilling fruit brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Try these delicious fruit grilling ideas:
- Grilled Pineapple: Slice pineapple into rings or wedges, brush with a mixture of brown sugar and melted vegan butter, then grill until caramelized.
- Grilled Peaches: Halve and pit peaches, brush with a bit of oil or vegan butter, and grill until softened and slightly charred. Serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream for a delectable dessert.
- Grilled Watermelon: Slice watermelon into thick wedges, brush with a little oil, and grill for a few minutes on each side. Sprinkle with some salt and enjoy this unique, smoky-sweet treat.
Grilled Stuffed Veggies
Take your grilled veggies to the next level by stuffing them with delicious fillings:
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Remove the tops and seeds from bell peppers, then stuff them with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and your favorite seasonings. Grill until the peppers are tender.
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Remove the stems and gills from large Portobello mushroom caps, then brush with a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Grill, gill-side down, for a few minutes before flipping and grilling until tender.
Vegan Grilling Tips
- To prevent sticking, make sure to clean and oil your grill grates before cooking.
- Use a separate grilling area, tools, and utensils for vegan food to avoid cross-contamination with meat products.
- Be mindful of cooking times and temperatures, as some vegan products may require less time or lower heat than their meat counterparts.
- Experiment with different marinades, rubs, and seasonings to create your own unique and flavorful vegan barbecue recipes.
Armed with these grilling ideas and tips, you’ll be ready to host a fantastic vegan-friendly barbecue that will delight your guests and keep them coming back for more. Enjoy the grilling season!
