BBQ Vegan Ribs With Smokey BBQ Sauce Recipe Made Easy

If you’ve ever craved the smoky, tangy goodness of BBQ ribs but want to keep it plant-based, you’re in for a treat with this BBQ Vegan Ribs with Smokey BBQ Sauce recipe. These ribs are not only deliciously tender but also packed with bold flavors that rival any traditional meat ribs.

Made primarily from seitan, a high-protein wheat gluten, these vegan ribs soak up a robust marinade and finish with a beautiful caramelized glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe perfectly balances smoky, sweet, and tangy notes in the BBQ sauce, making it ideal for summer cookouts, cozy dinners, or whenever you want to impress friends and family with a cruelty-free feast.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these BBQ vegan ribs are a fantastic way to enjoy classic comfort food without compromise. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and reheat, making meal prep a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into ribs dripping with smoky BBQ sauce. This vegan version brings all that joy without any animal products.

• Rich, smoky flavor: The BBQ sauce is infused with smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke to deliver authentic smokiness.
• Meaty texture: Using seitan gives these ribs a chewy, satisfying bite that mimics traditional ribs remarkably well.
• Versatile and customizable: You can adjust the sauce’s sweetness or spice level to suit your preference.
• Perfect for gatherings: Serve these vegan ribs at your next BBQ, and watch even meat-eaters get curious and delighted.
• Healthy and protein-packed: Seitan is a great source of plant protein, making this recipe both hearty and nutritious.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large pot or steamer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Brush for applying BBQ sauce
• Oven or grill
• Sharp knife
• Whisk or spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the seitan dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, maple syrup, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes until elastic and firm.
4. Shape the dough into a thick rectangular slab about 1 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, score the dough into rib-like sections by cutting vertical and horizontal lines, but do not cut all the way through; this will help portion the ribs later.
5. Place the slab into a steamer basket or large pot with a steaming rack. Steam for 45 minutes to an hour, adding water as needed. The seitan will expand and become firm.
6. While the seitan steams, prepare the smokey BBQ sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, molasses, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Whisk well.
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the seitan is done steaming, carefully remove it and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Brush a generous layer of the smokey BBQ sauce over the seitan ribs. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, basting with more sauce halfway through, until the edges caramelize and get slightly crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before cutting along the scored lines to separate the ribs.
11. Serve your BBQ vegan ribs hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

“For an even smokier flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke directly into the seitan dough.”

• Make it gluten-free: This recipe relies on vital wheat gluten, so for a gluten-free option, try marinated and grilled king oyster mushrooms or jackfruit ribs instead.
• Slow cooker option: After steaming, you can slow cook the ribs in BBQ sauce on low for 2-3 hours for an ultra-tender texture. Check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker for similar ideas.
• Spice it up: Add extra cayenne or chipotle powder to the sauce for a smoky heat kick.
• Serving size: This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or small gathering.
• Make ahead: Prepare the ribs and sauce in advance. They keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan ribs pair wonderfully with classic BBQ sides like creamy coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, and baked beans. For a healthier plate, try serving them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

For a complete meal, complement the ribs with our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or grab a loaf from our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up every bit of BBQ sauce.

Planning a full plant-based BBQ? Explore more ideas in our Vegan Smoker Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals collection.

Conclusion

Bringing together the hearty texture of seitan and the bold, smoky flavors of a homemade BBQ sauce, these BBQ Vegan Ribs are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy classic ribs without animal products.

They’re satisfying, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, craving comfort food, or simply want to impress your friends with a creative vegan dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Don’t let the idea of making seitan intimidate you—once you try this recipe, you’ll find it approachable and rewarding. Plus, you can easily customize the spice level and sweetness to suit your taste.

So fire up your oven, prepare your ribs, and get ready to enjoy one of the best BBQ meals you’ll ever have, completely plant-based and delicious!

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