Austrian Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals

Discover the rich and hearty flavors of Austrian cuisine with a compassionate twist. Austrian food is known for its comforting, rustic dishes often laden with meats and dairy, but vegan versions can be just as satisfying and delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore plant-based alternatives, Austrian vegan recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy traditional tastes while embracing wholesome, cruelty-free ingredients.

From warming soups to iconic vegetable-based mains and delightful desserts, these recipes bring Austria’s culinary heritage into your kitchen in a fresh, ethical way.

In this post, we’ll explore three classic Austrian vegan dishes that are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Embrace the charm of Austria’s food culture without compromising your values or taste buds.

Let’s dive into these delightful recipes that celebrate authenticity, creativity, and compassion.

Why You’ll Love These Austrian Vegan Recipes

These recipes strike the perfect balance between traditional Austrian flavors and modern vegan nutrition. You’ll love how they:

• Retain authentic flavors using traditional herbs, spices, and cooking methods.
• Use simple, accessible ingredients that are easy to find or substitute.
• Offer a nutritious and wholesome alternative to heavy meat- and dairy-based dishes.
• Are versatile and adaptable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Bring a comforting, cozy vibe that’s perfect for family meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

Recipe 1: Vegan Austrian Potato Salad (Erdäpfelsalat)

• 1 lb (450g) waxy potatoes, boiled and peeled
• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp mustard (Dijon or grainy)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp sunflower oil or another neutral oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Recipe 2: Vegan Viennese Lentil Soup (Linsensuppe)

• 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Vegan sour cream (optional, for serving)

Recipe 3: Vegan Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel)

• 6 large tart apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cup fine breadcrumbs
• 1 sheet vegan phyllo dough or homemade vegan strudel dough
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegan butter
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Equipment

• Large pot or soup pot
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Peeler (for apples and potatoes)
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Strainer or colander

Instructions

Recipe 1: Vegan Austrian Potato Salad

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender but firm, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly, then peel and slice into thin rounds.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mustard, vegetable broth, and sunflower oil until emulsified.
3. Add the finely chopped onion to the dressing and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften the sharpness.
4. Toss the warm potatoes gently with the dressing, ensuring all slices are coated well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature as a perfect side dish.

Recipe 2: Vegan Viennese Lentil Soup

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add tomato paste and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to release flavors.
3. Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
4. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
5. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of vegan sour cream for a creamy finish.

Recipe 3: Vegan Apple Strudel

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, raisins, cinnamon, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
3. Melt coconut oil or vegan butter in a skillet, add breadcrumbs and toast lightly until golden brown. Let cool.
4. Lay out the phyllo dough carefully on a clean surface. Brush each sheet with melted coconut oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
5. Spread the apple mixture evenly along one edge of the dough, leaving a border.
6. Roll the dough tightly over the filling, tucking in edges as you go to seal the strudel.
7. Place the strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the surface with more melted coconut oil.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crisp and golden brown.
9. Let cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For the potato salad, using waxy potatoes ensures they hold their shape and absorb the dressing beautifully.”

• Feel free to add diced pickles or capers to the potato salad for a tangy punch.
• For the lentil soup, swap brown lentils with green or black beluga lentils for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Add a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce or smoked tofu bacon bits to deepen the soup’s umami notes.
• If you can’t find vegan phyllo dough, try using puff pastry sheets or make a simple vegan dough with flour, water, and oil for the strudel.
• Mix chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts into the strudel filling for added crunch and richness.
• Serve the apple strudel warm with vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of vegan custard.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

The Vegan Austrian Potato Salad is a stellar side for any main course, especially with roasted vegetables or hearty bean dishes. It’s also delightful alongside vegan sausages or a crisp green salad.

The Vegan Viennese Lentil Soup is perfect as a warming starter or a light main. Pair it with crusty bread like the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

The Vegan Apple Strudel shines as a dessert or afternoon treat with a cup of herbal tea or a classic Viennese coffee. For a creative twist, try it alongside a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm berry compote.

Conclusion

Exploring Austrian vegan recipes is a delightful way to enjoy the rich heritage of this European cuisine without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. These recipes provide a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and soul.

Whether you’re indulging in the tangy potato salad, savoring the hearty lentil soup, or delighting in the sweet, flaky apple strudel, you’ll find that vegan Austrian cooking offers both comfort and innovation.

We encourage you to try these recipes and experiment with the tips and variations to personalize your dishes. For more delicious plant-based ideas, check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe and Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy the flavors of Austria in a compassionate, vegan way!

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