Sizzle Up Your Summer with These Delicious Vegan BBQ Recipes

1. Smoky BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 2 cans young green jackfruit in water, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Coleslaw (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
2. Add the jackfruit to the skillet, breaking it apart with a fork to resemble shredded meat.
3. Stir in the BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Toast the burger buns on the grill for a minute or until lightly charred.
5. Pile the BBQ jackfruit onto the buns and top with coleslaw. Serve immediately.

2. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks

Ingredients:

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the Portobello mushrooms in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the marinade, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve as a main dish or slice and add to salads or sandwiches.

3. Vegan BBQ Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. In a bowl, toss the tofu and vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Thread the tofu and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating as you go.
5. Brush the skewers with BBQ sauce.
6. Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with more BBQ sauce, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the vegan butter with parsley, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a generous amount of herb butter onto each ear of corn.
4. Wrap the corn in aluminum foil and grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender.
5. Remove from the grill and carefully unwrap the foil. Serve with additional herb butter if desired.

5. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Whipped Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 can coconut milk, chilled overnight
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh mint (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the pineapple rings with maple syrup.
3. Grill the pineapple for 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple is caramelized.
4. While the pineapple is grilling, prepare the coconut whipped cream. Scoop the solidified coconut cream from the can into a bowl, leaving the liquid behind.
5. Beat the coconut cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
6. Serve the grilled pineapple with a dollop of coconut whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint.

Tips for a Perfect Vegan BBQ

• Marinate: Marinating your vegetables and plant-based proteins helps to infuse them with flavor and keep them moist while grilling.
• High Heat: Ensure your grill is hot before adding your food to get those desirable grill marks and enhance the smoky flavor.
• Variety: Include a variety of textures and flavors in your BBQ spread, from smoky and savory to sweet and tangy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients you can find for the best taste and nutritional value.

Conclusion

These vegan BBQ recipes are sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering. From the smoky flavors of BBQ jackfruit sandwiches to the refreshing taste of grilled pineapple, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delicious and compassionate BBQ feast. Happy grilling!