Summer is here and grills are getting fired up across the country. With more and more diners considering environmental impacts and healthier diets, it’s never been easier to create a plant-based menu for your BBQ.
According to a recent survey by DKC Analytics, more than 75% of consumers polled were planning on adding plant-based meat options to their summer grilling repertoires this year. Not only does the substitution of these products for the real thing cut down on carbon footprint and water usage, but it provides healthier options as well. The U.S. National Institutes of Health recently determined that imitation meats are a good source of fiber, folate, and iron while containing less saturated fat than ground beef.
Still, traditionalists may balk at the very idea of veganizing outdoor cooking and BBQs. Though a variety of burgers have been on-market for decades, many people still associate meat substitutes with bland, sometimes cardboard-ish, veggie mashes of the past. The biggest buzz are the new versions that have come on market the last couple years, including patties and sausages. Seafood alternatives are also becoming more available, including shrimp made with seaweed and other plant-based ingredients.
It’s also important think beyond the beyond and complement your menu with a variety of vegetables grilled as substitutes. Thick cauliflower steaks, eggplant rounds, and marinated portabella caps are great options. If using tofu, make sure it’s the firm, non-silken variety. Freezing and thawing will open its pores and create a heartier texture, then cut it into thick slabs, dry between layers of paper towels, and marinate in a thick, sugary sauce before grilling, which ensure a nice crisp.
The garnishes on those naturally vegan buns have made serious strides as well. It’s possible to include not only vegan varieties of mayonnaise and sour cream, but also cheeses, which have jumped leaps and bounds to become as melty and texturally similar to actual dairy as possible. To really add a flavorful dimension to sandwiches and crudités platters, explore the wealth of spreads and dips available in flavors such as beet, French onion, romesco and roasted red pepper.
Of course, no good party is composed of main plates alone, so make sure your table includes vegan-friendly side dishes and desserts. Again, a wealth of products are available, ensuring an animal product-free summer party can be had that is enjoyable and more delicious than ever.