Are you a vegan looking for delicious and satisfying plant-based alternatives to your favorite meat dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creative vegan meat recipes that are sure to please even the most dedicated carnivores. From classic comfort foods like meatloaf and shepherd’s pie, to international flavors like Korean bulgogi and Greek gyros, these recipes prove that you don’t need meat to have a great meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting out on your plant-based journey, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. And the best part? They’re all entirely animal-friendly and free from animal products. So go ahead, indulge your taste buds, and enjoy the many benefits of a meat-free lifestyle.
Spicy Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Get ready to elevate your vegan game with these mouth-watering Spicy Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches! This recipe is a twist on the classic BBQ favorite, packed with tender jackfruit and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup vegan BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine jackfruit, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Grill the jackfruit mixture for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and tender.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading a layer of grilled jackfruit on each bun, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Vegan Fried Chicken
Get ready for a game-changing vegan take on the classic comfort food! This recipe uses a special blend of spices and herbs to create a crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s just as satisfying as its traditional counterpart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup vegan buttermilk (see note)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the vegan buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tofu piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated tofu on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. When the oil is hot, add the coated tofu pieces and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Note: To make vegan buttermilk, combine 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond) with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using.
Smoky Lentil and Walnut Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe combines the flavors of smoky lentils, rich walnuts, and savory spices to create a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked lentils, chopped walnuts, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix well.
3. Add salt, pepper, and the beaten egg to the mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A flavorful and satisfying vegan twist on the classic sausage and peppers skillet, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vegan sausage (such as Field Roast or Upton’s Naturals), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Vegan Steak with Chimichurri
Elevate your plant-based game with this flavorful and savory vegan steak, served with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 portobello mushroom cap, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Chimichurri sauce (recipe below)
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mushroom cap with olive oil, then season with the soy sauce mixture.
4. Grill the mushroom for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, prepare chimichurri by combining parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl. Season to taste.
6. Serve grilled vegan steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Meatball Sub with Marinara
Satisfy your cravings with this plant-based twist on a classic Italian sub. These vegan meatballs are made with oats, vegetables, and tomato sauce, and served on toasted sub rolls with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sub rolls
– Vegan mozzarella cheese shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, carrot, garlic, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs (about 12-15 total).
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
7. Assemble the subs by placing three meatballs on each roll, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and some melted vegan mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Vegan Meat Stir-Fry
A savory and sweet vegan twist on the classic Japanese dish, this Teriyaki Vegan Meat Stir-Fry is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Made with tender textured tofu and a rich teriyaki sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
4. Pour the teriyaki sauce into the wok and stir everything together to combine.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using) and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils
A classic comfort food gets a plant-based twist! This hearty lentil-based filling is topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, making for a satisfying and flavorful vegan take on the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– Vegan Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Transfer the filling mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
6. If using Worcestershire sauce, drizzle over the potatoes.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Buffalo Cauliflower Vegan Wings
Transform cauliflower into a mouthwatering vegan “wing” experience with this simple recipe. The tangy Buffalo sauce and crispy texture will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup vegan buffalo sauce (such as Annie’s Naturals)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and toss with buffalo sauce until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Bolognese with Spaghetti
Experience the rich flavors of Italy without the meat! This vegan bolognese is a game-changer, packed with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers in a tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 large bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and bell pepper; cook until tender.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve bolognese over cooked spaghetti. If desired, sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Vegan Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of our Vegan Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches! Made with tender jackfruit and a tangy BBQ sauce, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the jackfruit, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the jackfruit is fully coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the jackfruit is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pulled pork onto hamburger buns and topping with coleslaw and pickles (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Meat Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce
Vegan Meat Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this vegan take on traditional tacos, featuring crispy textured meat and a refreshing avocado lime sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked seitan or textured vegetable protein (TVP)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Sauce (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream or vegan alternative
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the seitan/TVP, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by filling tortillas with meat mixture and topping with Avocado Lime Sauce.
Avocado Lime Sauce:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl; mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Vegan Ground Meat
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of vegan ground meat, creating a delightful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup vegan ground meat (such as Beyond Meat or homemade mixture)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the vegan ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the vegan ground meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Meatball Parmesan
Transform classic Italian-American comfort food into a plant-based delight with this vegan meatball parmesan recipe. Hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (such as soy-based or cashew-based)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, rice, nutritional yeast, breadcrumbs, mushrooms, onion, garlic, tomato paste, and oregano. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 12-15).
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Arrange meatballs in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Spoon marinara sauce over meatballs, followed by vegan mozzarella cheese.
9. Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Meat and Potato Casserole
A hearty, plant-based take on a classic comfort food dish, this vegan meat and potato casserole is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked vegan “meat” (such as seitan or textured vegetable protein), diced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar shreds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced “meat” and minced garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked potatoes in the bottom. Top with the “meat” mixture, then add the remaining potatoes.
6. Pour the vegetable broth over the casserole and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. If using vegan cheddar shreds, sprinkle on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Korean Bulgogi with Rice
Transform your taste buds with this aromatic and flavorful Vegan Korean Bulgogi recipe, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (make sure it’s vegan)
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
6. Pour the marinade into the pan with the vegetables and stir to combine.
7. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to coat with the marinade.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
9. Serve over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Meat Gyros with Tzatziki
Get ready to experience the flavors of Greece with this vegan twist on a classic street food favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of seitan or textured vegetable protein (TVPS)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 gyro wraps (flour tortilla or pita bread)
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Vegan Meat Gyro Filling:
1. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the seitan or TVPS, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Season with lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tzatziki Sauce:
1. Combine 1 cup vegan yogurt (such as soy or coconut-based), 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Assembly:
1. Warm the gyro wraps by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
2. Assemble the gyros by spreading some tzatziki sauce on each wrap, followed by a spoonful of the vegan meat filling.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Meat and Mushroom Stroganoff
This hearty vegan take on the classic Russian dish is a game-changer for meat-free comfort food lovers. With tender mushrooms, flavorful “meat” strips, and a rich sauce, this stroganoff is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan meat strips (such as seitan or tofu)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz eggless noodles (such as rice-based or quinoa-based)
Instructions:
1. Cook the vegan meat strips according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in oil until tender.
3. Add broth, nutritional yeast, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked vegan meat strips, mushroom mixture, and noodles. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of plant-based delights with these 18 creative vegan meat recipes! From Spicy Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches to Vegan Meatball Parmesan, and from Crispy Vegan Fried Chicken to Grilled Vegan Steak with Chimichurri, these innovative dishes will satisfy your cravings. Explore the versatility of jackfruit, lentils, walnuts, and more as you discover mouth-watering options like Vegan Sausage and Peppers Skillet, Vegan Meat Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce, and many more. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds!
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