Have you ever found yourself at a cookout, surrounded by the tempting aroma of grilled meats and cheesy sides, only to realize that your plant-based preferences have left you with little more than a sad plate of iceberg lettuce? It’s a common scenario for vegans navigating the traditional world of outdoor grilling. Cookouts, those quintessential summer gatherings, are more than just barbecues; they’re celebrations of community, sunshine, and, of course, delicious food. But the good news is, no vegan needs to feel left out of the fun.
Vegan cookout food can be just as delicious, fun, and satisfying as traditional fare, offering a range of flavorful and creative options that everyone can enjoy. Forget the boring veggie burgers of the past; we’re talking mouthwatering plant-based masterpieces that will have even the most dedicated carnivores coming back for seconds. This guide will arm you with everything you need to throw a truly incredible vegan cookout, or confidently navigate any BBQ with a plate full of plant-powered goodness. We’ll explore how to veganize classic cookout dishes, delve into delectable side options, provide crucial grilling tips, and even offer dessert ideas that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Get ready to fire up the grill and impress your friends and family with the amazing possibilities of vegan cookout food!
Veganizing Cookout Classics
The key to a successful vegan cookout is recreating those familiar favorites with plant-based ingredients. The great thing is, there are so many incredible alternatives available today, making it easier than ever to create delicious vegan versions of all your BBQ staples.
Burgers
The vegan burger landscape has exploded in recent years. Gone are the days of dry, crumbly patties that taste like cardboard. Now you can find incredible store-bought options that rival the real deal. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods offer burgers that look, cook, and taste remarkably similar to beef, thanks to innovative ingredients and techniques. These are a great option if you’re short on time or just want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
However, making your own vegan burgers can be incredibly rewarding and allows you to tailor the flavors to your exact liking. Black bean burgers are a classic for a reason: they’re packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Lentil burgers are another excellent choice, offering a hearty and satisfying texture. When making your own, consider adding ingredients like chopped vegetables (onions, peppers, carrots), oats or breadcrumbs for binding, and plenty of spices for flavor. A touch of liquid smoke can also add that authentic smoky BBQ taste.
The most important tip for grilling vegan burgers is to handle them with care. They tend to be more delicate than beef patties, so avoid flipping them too often. Make sure your grill is properly preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A grill basket can also be a lifesaver for preventing those dreaded patty breakdowns. Top your burgers with vegan cheese slices (brands like Daiya and Violife are popular), caramelized onions, avocado, fresh tomato slices, crisp lettuce, and your favorite condiments.
Hot Dogs/Sausages
Just like burgers, the plant-based hot dog and sausage options have improved dramatically. Tofurky and Field Roast are two well-known brands that offer a variety of vegan sausages, from classic bratwurst to spicy Italian. These are typically made from tofu, seitan, or a combination of plant-based proteins.
Preparing vegan hot dogs and sausages is easy. You can grill them, boil them, or pan-fry them, depending on your preference. Grilling will give them that smoky, charred flavor, while boiling keeps them juicy and tender. Don’t forget the condiments! Vegan mustard, ketchup, and relish are essential. You can also get creative with toppings like sauerkraut, onions, and peppers.
Ribs/Pulled “Pork”
Now, this is where things get really creative! Vegan “ribs” are often made from jackfruit or seitan. Jackfruit is a tropical fruit with a meaty texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. When cooked with BBQ sauce, it becomes incredibly tender and resembles pulled pork.
To make vegan pulled “pork” with jackfruit, simply drain and rinse canned young jackfruit (packed in water or brine, not syrup). Shred the jackfruit with your fingers or a fork, then simmer it in your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s tender and flavorful. Serve it on buns with coleslaw for a truly satisfying vegan take on a classic BBQ sandwich. Seitan can also be formed into “ribs” and marinated in a smoky BBQ sauce before grilling or baking. You can find many recipes for this online, and it’s a great project for a slightly more experienced vegan cook.
Chicken Alternatives
If you’re craving the taste of grilled chicken, fear not! There are plenty of plant-based options to satisfy your craving. Seitan, tofu, and tempeh are all excellent choices. Tofu, when pressed to remove excess water and marinated, can be incredibly versatile. Seitan, made from vital wheat gluten, has a chewy texture that mimics chicken beautifully. Tempeh, made from fermented soybeans, offers a nutty and slightly firm texture. Marinate your chosen “chicken” in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other spices, then grill it to perfection. Serve it on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo, or slice it and add it to salads or skewers.
Delicious Vegan Side Dishes
No cookout is complete without a variety of delicious side dishes. Here are some plant-based options that will complement your main courses perfectly:
Salads
Potato salad is a cookout staple, and it’s easy to veganize by simply substituting regular mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise. There are many brands of vegan mayo available, made from ingredients like soy, sunflower seeds, or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Pasta salad is another great option. Toss cooked pasta with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, and dress it with a flavorful vinaigrette. A fresh green salad is always a welcome addition. Use a variety of greens, such as romaine lettuce, spinach, and arugula, and top with nuts, seeds, berries, and a light vinaigrette.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is a fantastic way to add flavor and texture to your cookout menu. Corn on the cob is a classic choice. Simply brush it with vegan butter and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are also delicious when marinated and grilled. Cut them into slices or chunks and toss them with olive oil, herbs, and spices. Asparagus, onions, and mushrooms are also great for grilling. Skewer them for easy handling and serving.
Other Sides
Vegan coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish. You can make it creamy or vinegar-based, depending on your preference. Baked beans are another cookout classic, but be sure to check the ingredients to ensure they’re vegan-friendly. Many commercially prepared baked beans contain bacon or other animal products. You can easily make your own vegan baked beans from scratch using canned beans, tomato sauce, molasses, and spices. Grilled pineapple adds a touch of sweetness to the menu. Slice it into rings or chunks and grill it until it’s caramelized. Watermelon is a refreshing and hydrating option. Cut it into wedges or cubes and serve it chilled. Vegan cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to any cookout meal. Use a plant-based milk and egg replacer to make a delicious and fluffy vegan version.
Dips, Spreads & Sauces
Dips and spreads can transform any cookout into a flavor fiesta.
Guacamole and Chips
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Use ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, onion, and jalapeño for a simple and delicious guacamole.
Vegan Queso
Recreate that cheesy dip with a plant-based cashew or potato-based recipe for a warm and comforting appetizer.
Hummus
This Mediterranean staple is always a hit. Serve it with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Other Plant Based Dips
Explore a wide variety of other plant-based dips, like spinach artichoke dip, black bean dip, or white bean dip.
Tips for a Successful Vegan Cookout
Planning a vegan cookout can be easy and fun with these helpful tips.
Communicate with your guests: Let them know you’ll be providing vegan options. This will help them feel included and prevent any confusion about the food.
Label your food clearly: Avoid any accidental consumption of non-vegan ingredients by labeling everything clearly.
Grilling Tips: Use separate grilling surfaces or clean your grill thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination. Pre-heat your grill properly before adding any food. Use oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare in advance: Make some dishes ahead of time to reduce stress on the day of the cookout. Salads, dips, and sauces can all be made in advance.
Offer Variety: Provide a range of options to cater to different tastes. Some people may prefer burgers, while others may prefer sausages or grilled vegetables.
Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try new recipes and flavors. There are endless possibilities when it comes to vegan cookout food.
Vegan Desserts for the Cookout
No cookout is complete without dessert. Here are some vegan options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Grilled Fruit
Grilling fruit brings out its natural sweetness and creates a caramelized flavor. Pineapple and peaches are excellent choices.
Vegan Brownies or Cookies
These classic desserts are easy to veganize using plant-based butter, flax eggs, and vegan chocolate chips.
Fruit Salad with Vegan Whipped Cream
A refreshing and healthy option. Top it with vegan whipped cream made from coconut cream or aquafaba.
Vegan Ice Cream
There are many delicious brands of vegan ice cream available, made from ingredients like coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. You can also make your own vegan ice cream at home using an ice cream maker.
Conclusion
As you can see, vegan cookout food is far from boring. In fact, it can be incredibly delicious, satisfying, and creative. With a little planning and effort, you can create a plant-powered feast that everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes and flavors. The possibilities are endless! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and memorable vegan cookout. Embrace the abundance of plant-based ingredients and show the world that vegan cookout food is anything but a compromise – it’s a celebration! Now, go forth and create a vegan BBQ masterpiece!
We would love to hear your favorite vegan cookout recipes! Share them in the comments below so we can all learn from each other. Happy grilling!
