Discover the best vegan grilling techniques and mouth-watering recipes to impress your guests and elevate your grilling game. From savory grilled veggies to juicy plant-based burgers, our guide has everything you need to become a vegan grilling pro.

Master the Art of Vegan Grilling: Techniques and Recipes

Elevate Your Grilling Game with These Vegan Recipes and Techniques

The Basics of Vegan Grilling

Grilling vs. Barbecuing: What's the Difference?

Choosing the Right Grill

Essential Grilling Tools and Equipment

Vegan Grilling Techniques

Direct vs. Indirect Grilling

Marinades and Rubs

Smoking and Wood Chips

Grilled Vegan Appetizers and Sides

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled Avocado

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Vegan Grilled Main Courses

Grilled Mushroom Burger

Grilled Tofu Skewers

Grilled Portobello Steaks

Grilled Vegan Desserts

Grilled Fruit Skewers

Grilled Pineapple Sundae

Grilled Banana S'mores

Grilling for Special Diets

Gluten-Free Grilling

Low-Fat Grilling

Grilling for High-Protein Diets

Tips for Hosting a Vegan Grilling Party

Menu Planning and Preparation

Setting the Scene

Making Guests Comfortable

Conclusion

The Joy of Vegan Grilling

Putting It All Together

Incredible Vegan Grilling Techniques and Recipes

Grilling and barbecuing are two different outdoor cooking methods that use direct heat and smoke, respectively. Grilling is typically done on a grill or griddle over high heat, while barbecuing is done over low heat and for a longer period of time. For vegan cooking, the difference matters because certain vegan foods, such as vegetables and fruits, require less cooking time and more direct heat, while others, like tofu and seitan, benefit from longer cooking times and indirect heat to absorb more smoke flavor.

Grilling vs. Barbecuing

There are several types of grills available for vegan cooking, including gas, charcoal, electric, and wood pellet grills. Gas grills are convenient and easy to use, but may not impart as much smoky flavor as charcoal or wood pellet grills. Charcoal grills require more preparation and clean-up, but provide a classic smoky flavor. Electric grills are ideal for indoor or apartment grilling, but may not get as hot as other types of grills. Wood pellet grills offer the best of both worlds, combining the convenience of gas grills with the smoky flavor of charcoal grills.

Types of Grills

Each type of grill has its own pros and cons. Gas grills are easy to start and control the temperature, but may not get as hot as other grills. Charcoal grills provide a classic smoky flavor, but require more preparation and cleaning. Electric grills are convenient and easy to use, but may not get as hot as other grills. Wood pellet grills offer the convenience of gas grills with the flavor of charcoal grills, but may be more expensive and require more maintenance.

Pros and Cons

There are several essential tools and equipment for vegan grilling, including a grill brush, tongs, spatula, meat thermometer, and grill basket. A grill brush is necessary to clean the grates before and after cooking, while tongs and spatula are essential for flipping and moving food on the grill. A meat thermometer is important for ensuring that vegan meats, like tofu and seitan, are cooked to the appropriate temperature. A grill basket is useful for grilling small or delicate foods, such as vegetables or tofu, that may fall through the grates.

Must-Have Tools

In addition to the must-have tools, there are several other equipment that can improve your vegan grilling experience, such as a chimney starter, grill mat, and smoker box. A chimney starter makes it easy to light charcoal without lighter fluid, while a grill mat prevents food from sticking to the grates and makes clean-up easier. A smoker box is useful for adding smoky flavor to vegan dishes by holding wood chips that produce smoke when heated on the grill.

Improving Your Cooking Experience

Direct grilling involves placing food directly over the heat source, which is usually high heat. This method is best for foods that are small, thin, and cook quickly, such as burgers, vegetables, and seafood. Direct grilling creates a crisp crust on the outside of the food while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Direct Grilling

Indirect grilling involves placing food next to, rather than directly over, the heat source. This method is best for foods that require longer cooking times, such as large cuts of meat, whole chickens, and roasts. Indirect grilling allows food to cook slowly and evenly without burning, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Indirect Grilling

Choosing the right grilling method depends on the type of food you are cooking. Generally speaking, smaller, thinner cuts of food are best suited for direct grilling, while larger, thicker cuts are better for indirect grilling. However, some foods, such as chicken wings, benefit from a combination of both methods. Experiment with both techniques to find out what works best for you and your favorite recipes.

Choosing the Right Method

Marinades are a mixture of acid, oil, and seasonings that are used to tenderize and flavor meat, tofu, and vegetables. Acidic ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, or wine break down the proteins in the food, making it more tender. Oil helps to prevent the food from sticking to the grill grates and adds moisture and flavor. Seasonings such as garlic, herbs, and spices add additional flavor and complexity to the dish. Marinades should be used for at least 30 minutes, but can be left overnight for maximum flavor.

Marinades

Rubs are mixtures of herbs, spices, and sometimes sugar that are rubbed onto the surface of meat, tofu, or vegetables prior to grilling. Rubs add flavor and create a flavorful crust on the outside of the food. Rubs can be used in addition to or instead of marinades, depending on personal preference. Rubs should be applied at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the food.

Rubs

Experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and acids to create your own signature marinades and rubs. Try using citrus juices, yogurt, or wine as a base for your marinades, and experiment with different spice blends such as curry powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for your rubs. Keep in mind that salt should be used sparingly in marinades and rubs, as it can dry out the food and make it tough.

Creating Your Own

Adding smoke to your grilled dishes is a great way to add depth and complexity to the flavor. Smoking involves cooking food over low heat and adding wood chips to the grill to create smoke. The smoke infuses the food with flavor and can create a smoky crust on the outside. Hickory, mesquite, and applewood are popular wood chips for smoking, but there are many other options to choose from depending on the type of food you are cooking.

Adding Smoke Flavor

Before using wood chips, they should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from catching fire and burning too quickly. Once soaked, the wood chips can be placed directly on the coals or in a smoker box on a gas grill. The grill should be covered to allow the smoke to infuse the food. Smoking times will vary depending on the type of food you are cooking and the amount of smoke flavor you want to achieve.

Preparing the Wood Chips

If you don't have access to a smoker or wood chips, you can still add smoke flavor to your grilled dishes by using smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or smoked salt in your marinades or rubs. These ingredients can help to mimic the flavor of smoked foods without the need for a smoker or wood chips.

Other Ways to Add Smoke Flavor

Assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, onion, zucchini, eggplant, mushroom, cherry tomatoes, etc.

Ingredients

1. Cut the vegetables into similar sized pieces.
2. Thread them onto skewers, alternating colors and textures.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Preparation

1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the cut side of the avocado halves with olive oil and lime juice.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Place the avocado halves cut side down on the grill.
5. Grill for 3-4 minutes, until the flesh is slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or jalapeño slices.

4 ears of corn, husked
2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the corn with the seasoned butter.
4. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, until lightly charred and tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or lime wedges.

1 pound mushrooms, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and pepper, 4 burger buns, toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Clean mushrooms and remove stems.
3. In a food processor, pulse mushrooms, onion, and garlic until finely chopped.
4. In a bowl, mix the mushroom mixture with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Form into four patties.
6. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
7. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

Instructions

1 block extra-firm tofu, 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, 1 red onion, 1 zucchini, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, salt and pepper

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut tofu, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini into 1-inch pieces.
3. Thread onto skewers, alternating between tofu and veggies.
4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the skewers with the marinade.
6. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
7. Serve hot.

4 large portobello mushrooms, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, salt and pepper

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Clean mushrooms and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the marinade onto both sides of the mushrooms.
5. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, until tender and browned.
6. Serve hot.

Assorted fruits such as pineapple, mango, peaches, strawberries and kiwi, cut into bite-sized pieces

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread fruit onto skewers, alternating colors and textures for an eye-catching presentation.
3. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and fruit is slightly softened.
4. Serve skewers as is, or drizzle with a sweet glaze or dip.

1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using, to prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Choose fruit that is firm and ripe, but not too soft, to hold up to grilling.
3. Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as coconut-lime glaze or balsamic reduction.

Tips

1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp coconut oil
Vegan vanilla ice cream
Chopped nuts or shredded coconut (optional)

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut pineapple into rings, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and coconut oil until combined.
4. Brush pineapple rings with brown sugar mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
5. Grill pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and pineapple is slightly caramelized.
6. Serve pineapple rings with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if desired.

1. Use a ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
2. Don't have a grill? You can also cook the pineapple rings in a grill pan on the stove.
3. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle the pineapple rings with vegan caramel sauce or chocolate syrup.

4 ripe bananas
1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
1/2 cup vegan mini marshmallows
Vegan graham crackers, crushed

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut each banana in half lengthwise, leaving the skin on.
3. Using a small knife, make a slit in the center of each banana half, making sure not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each banana slit with a handful of vegan chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
5. Wrap each banana half tightly in aluminum foil.
6. Grill banana packets for 5-7 minutes, until chocolate and marshmallows are melted and bananas are softened.
7. Carefully remove banana packets from grill and let cool for a few minutes.
8. Serve grilled bananas in their skins, topped with crushed graham crackers.

1. Customize your s'mores by adding other toppings like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or sliced strawberries.
2. Make sure to wrap the banana packets tightly in foil to prevent the chocolate and marshmallows from melting out.
3. If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the banana packets in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

When grilling for a gluten-free diet, it's important to be aware of potential sources of gluten contamination, such as cross-contact with gluten-containing foods or utensils. Here are some tips for safe and delicious gluten-free grilling:

- Use naturally gluten-free ingredients, such as vegetables, fruits, and proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu.
- Choose gluten-free marinades and sauces, or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.
- Use gluten-free seasoning blends or make your own using gluten-free herbs and spices.
- Grill gluten-free bread or buns separately, or offer gluten-free alternatives like lettuce wraps or corn tortillas.
- Use separate utensils and grill grates to prevent cross-contact with gluten-containing foods.

Here are some gluten-free grilling recipes to try:

- Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Lemon and Thyme
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
- Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Tips for Grilling Gluten-Free Dishes

Grilling is a great way to enjoy flavorful and healthy dishes that are low in fat. Here are some tips for grilling low-fat:

- Choose lean proteins like chicken breast, fish, or tofu.
- Trim excess fat before grilling to reduce calories and saturated fat.
- Use low-fat marinades, or skip the marinade and use flavorful rubs or seasoning blends.
- Grill vegetables for a low-fat and nutrient-packed side dish.
- Use a grilling basket or foil packet to grill delicate foods like fish or vegetables without added fat.

Here are some low-fat grilling recipes to try:

- Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
- Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa
- Grilled Zucchini and Squash

Tips for Grilling Low-Fat Dishes

Grilling is a great way to incorporate high-protein vegan foods into your diet. Here are some vegan protein sources that are perfect for grilling:

- Tofu: Firm tofu holds up well on the grill and can be marinated for extra flavor.
- Tempeh: This fermented soy product has a nutty flavor and firm texture that holds up well on the grill.
- Seitan: Made from wheat gluten, seitan has a meaty texture that makes it a great substitute for meat on the grill.
- Portobello mushrooms: These meaty mushrooms can be marinated and grilled for a satisfying main course.

Here are some high-protein vegan grilling recipes to try:

- Grilled Tofu and Vegetable Skewers
- Grilled Tempeh with Balsamic Glaze
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks

Vegan Protein Sources for Grilling

When planning your vegan grilling party, be sure to consider the dietary needs and preferences of your guests. Make a list of any food allergies, intolerances, or restrictions so that you can plan a menu that everyone can enjoy.

Consider Your Guest List

To ensure that there is something for everyone, offer a variety of vegan dishes on your menu. Consider incorporating different flavors, textures, and cooking techniques to keep things interesting. Plan for appetizers, sides, main courses, and desserts to create a well-rounded menu.

Offer a Variety of Options

To make the day of your party as stress-free as possible, prepare as much of the food in advance as you can. Many vegan dishes can be made ahead of time and reheated on the grill or in the oven. Consider setting up a food prep station outside to keep the mess out of your kitchen.

Prepare in Advance

To create a festive atmosphere for your vegan grilling party, consider decorating your outdoor space with string lights, candles, and fresh flowers. Set up a music playlist that fits the vibe of your party, and consider providing outdoor activities like cornhole or bocce ball.

Create a Festive Atmosphere

To ensure that your guests are comfortable throughout the party, invest in plenty of seating options. Set up tables and chairs for dining, and consider providing outdoor lounge furniture for guests to relax on. Be sure to provide plenty of shade options to protect guests from the sun.

Invest in Comfortable Seating

Before your party, be sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. If it is going to be a hot day, consider setting up a misting fan or providing cool drinks. If there is a chance of rain, be sure to have a backup plan in place to keep your guests dry.

Consider the Weather

To ensure that your guests feel comfortable and included, communicate with them about the menu and any accommodations you can provide. Consider sending out an email or survey ahead of time to gather information about dietary needs and preferences. Be sure to clearly label all dishes on the day of the party to avoid confusion.

Communicate with Your Guests

To ensure that guests who do not drink alcohol feel included, provide plenty of non-alcoholic drink options like water, soda, and iced tea. Consider setting up a DIY drink station where guests can mix their own drinks and add their own garnishes.

Provide Non-Alcoholic Drink Options

After your party, be sure to ask your guests for feedback on the menu and the overall experience. This can help you improve future parties and ensure that everyone feels included and valued. Consider sending out a survey or asking for feedback in person.

Be Open to Feedback

One of the joys of vegan grilling is the opportunity to experiment with new flavors and techniques. By using fresh, whole-food ingredients and a variety of plant-based marinades and rubs, you can create dishes that are both healthy and delicious. Vegan grilling also allows you to explore different cooking methods, such as smoking, indirect grilling, and using wood chips, to add depth and complexity to your dishes.

Exploring New Flavors and Techniques

Grilling outdoors is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you're grilling in your backyard or at a park, the experience of cooking over an open flame can be both relaxing and invigorating. Plus, by choosing vegan ingredients, you can feel good knowing that you're doing your part to protect the environment and reduce your carbon footprint.

Connecting with Nature

Finally, vegan grilling is a great way to share your passion for plant-based cooking with others. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or bringing a dish to a potluck, vegan grilling can be a fun and festive way to introduce your friends and family to new flavors and ideas. By sharing your love of vegan grilling, you can inspire others to try new things and make healthier choices for themselves and the planet.

Sharing with Others

In this guide, we've covered the basics of vegan grilling, including the difference between grilling and barbecuing, the different types of grills available, and the essential tools and equipment you'll need. We've also explored a variety of vegan grilling techniques, from direct and indirect grilling to smoking and using marinades and rubs. Finally, we've shared some delicious recipes for vegan appetizers, sides, main courses, and desserts, as well as tips for hosting a vegan grilling party.

Key Takeaways

If you're interested in learning more about vegan grilling, there are many great resources available online and in print. Some of our favorites include the Vegan Grilling section of the Forks Over Knives website, the book Vegan BBQ by Nadine Horn and Jörg Mayer, and the cookbook Grilling Vegan Style by John Schlimm. We hope this guide has inspired you to try new things and explore the joys of vegan grilling!

Resources for Further Learning

Discover the ultimate guide for dining out as a vegan in non-vegan restaurants. Learn tips on how to find vegan options, communicate with the staff, and enjoy your meal!