Whole Foods Veggie Meats You Should Be Eating (with Recipes)

If you’re plant-based and have ever attended a barbecue that wasn’t hosted by a vegan or vegetarian, chances are, you just stuck to your water bottle. Even if they offered that delicious-looking, charred corn on the cob, it probably touched the pounds of meat before it on the grill. And thus, you may have refused politely and sipped away on that water. But, Green Monsters, don’t let this be you next time!

The next time you’re invited to an “al fresco,” meat-heavy get-together, come by in style with some whole foods, veggie “meats” in tow. That way, you can show those omnivores that vegans have their own fair share of picnic-worthy (and even better!) foods, too. Make your veggie meats ahead of time, before the barbecue, and pack them to-go. If you want them hot off the grill, request that you heat some up first, so those veggie-full meats aren’t heating up with burger or hot dog juices. The best part is, you won’t get a stomachache if that veggie “meat” is undercooked.

Next step: share with everyone! This is a great way to show the skeptical that vegan food is REAL food. And that, no, we don’t just eat salad all day.

These “meats” are also great for dinner parties and special holiday meals. Create the following whole foods, veggie meats for a new level of tastiness in your diet. And remember to share them with the world because — who knows — you might get someone dear to you to convert over to the veggie side too!

1. Balsamic BBQ Seitan & Tempeh Ribs

These BBQ Seitan & Tempeh Ribs can satisfy any barbecue craving you might have. They go perfect with mashed potatoes and cole slaw and they’ll surely make everyone at that picnic jealous. Heck, they might not even know it’s completely vegan! Surprise your family and friends with this indulging veggie meat.

2. Seitan Steak in Beurre Blanc Sauce

Add a layer of Beurre Blanc Sauce, infused with parsley and fennel, on top of that giant slab of seitan steak. It’s a heavenly combination that’s great for dressing up a casual picnic or as a dinner date option.

3. Authentic Smoked Seitan

Is that Texas brisket? Yes, it is. Well, as close as a vegan version can get to it. This Smoked Seitan is a great vegan dish to share with meat-eaters, who are skeptical about making the switch. Show them that not all is lost when you switch to a kinder diet. Taste is never compromised with something like this:

4. Vegan Buffalo Tempeh Meatballs

These hot and spicy Buffalo Tempeh Meatballs are calling your name. These are great at picnics, BBQs, and game nights! Serve them with a side of vegan Blue Cheese Dressing and some veggies for the ultimate party snack.

5. The Bad Ass ‘Lamb’ Burger

This list wouldn’t be complete without the Bad Ass “Lamb” Burger, and no picnic should go without it. Whether you’re grilling at a park or in your patio, these burgers will leave everyone coming back for more. Oh, and these bad boys are meat eater tested AND approved.

6. Homemade Spicy Italian Sausage

This vegan sausages hold up well on the grill. They turn crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. Enjoy them as a vegan hot dog or on its own.

7. Vegan Reuben Burger

These burgers are a great choice if you’re going for casual. Top them off with sauerkraut and vegan thousand island dressing, and voila, they’ll be the star of your meal. Enjoy with a beer.

8. Gluten-Free Vegan Chicken

For those picky kids at parties, try giving them these Gluten-Free Vegan Chicken. It’s the chicken tender appearance they love, without the cruelty. They won’t even know the difference.

9. Pineapple Jack BBQ Sandwiches

Choose between seitan, tofu, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms to make this sandwich. The sauce makes any of the former taste delicious with the tangy taste of pineapple and a hint of whiskey to balance it off.

10. Vegan Sloppy Joes

A tried and true classic made vegan! This is the ultimate kiddo favorite (for all ages!). Get your bibs out and enjoy this and the above finger-licking veggie meats.

Lead Image Source: The Bad Ass ‘Lamb’ Burger