Bon Appetit Recipe Vegan Beef Barbecue Made Easy

Barbecue is a beloved comfort food across many cultures, but for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle, finding a vegan version that hits all the smoky, savory, and tangy notes can be a challenge. That’s where this Bon Appetit vegan beef barbecue recipe shines.

Designed to replicate the hearty texture and rich flavor of traditional barbecue beef, this recipe uses wholesome, plant-based ingredients to create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners alike.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan, curious about meat alternatives, or simply looking to add more variety to your meals, this recipe offers a delicious and nutritious alternative. With a smoky barbecue sauce, tender vegan “beef,” and simple prep steps, you’ll be enjoying a plate full of mouthwatering barbecue in no time.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress friends and family who might not even realize it’s vegan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the bold, smoky flavors of classic barbecue and the healthy, sustainable benefits of plant-based eating. The vegan beef alternative used here is not only packed with protein but also has a satisfying texture that mimics shredded beef perfectly.

The homemade barbecue sauce is tangy, sweet, and smoky with just the right amount of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser for vegans and meat-eaters alike. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served in sandwiches, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides.

Easy to prepare with common kitchen equipment and pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. And if you love this, you might also enjoy other creative recipes like Chipotle Black Beans and Rice or the indulgent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream for dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 package (14 oz) vegan beef strips or shredded seitan (or use shredded jackfruit for a lighter option)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for extra tang)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowl (if making homemade barbecue sauce)
• Small saucepan (for sauce preparation)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegan beef: If using store-bought vegan beef strips or seitan, shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces to mimic pulled beef texture. If using canned jackfruit, drain and shred it with forks.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Season the mixture: Add smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic evenly with the spices.
4. Add the vegan beef: Toss in the shredded vegan beef or jackfruit. Stir to combine and heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in barbecue sauce: Add 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce and stir well until the vegan beef is fully coated. Lower the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add apple cider vinegar to enhance tanginess.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste your vegan barbecue and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed.
7. Serve hot: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy your vegan beef barbecue in sandwiches, wraps, or as a main dish with sides.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt to your barbecue sauce.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, use less shredding and more chopping of your vegan beef or jackfruit.

Experiment with different barbecue sauces – whether sweet, spicy, or tangy – to suit your taste buds.

For a gluten-free version, ensure your vegan beef substitute and barbecue sauce are gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan beef barbecue is incredibly versatile. Try these serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve on toasted vegan burger buns with coleslaw for a classic barbecue sandwich experience.
• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty dinner.
• Top a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa for a filling, protein-packed meal.
• Wrap in warm tortillas with fresh veggies and avocado for delicious vegan tacos.
• Serve alongside your favorite grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

This Bon Appetit vegan beef barbecue recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional barbecue beef. It’s simple to make, packed with protein, and bursting with smoky, tangy flavors that make it a hit with vegans and meat-eaters alike.

The recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize the spice level and texture, making it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a cozy meal at home, this vegan beef barbecue will delight your taste buds without compromising your dietary choices. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce for a creamy pasta side or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake to satisfy your sweet tooth after your savory feast.

Enjoy cooking and bon appétit!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Bon Appetit Recipe Vegan Beef Barbecue”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A flavorful vegan barbecue dish that mimics the taste and texture of traditional beef. Perfect for grilling or serving with your favorite sides.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT30M”, “totalTime”: “PT45M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 lb vegan beef strips”, “1/2 cup barbecue sauce”, “2 tbsp olive oil”, “1 small onion, thinly sliced”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 tsp smoked paprika”, “1/2 tsp ground black pepper”, “1/2 tsp salt”, “1 tbsp soy sauce”, “1 tbsp maple syrup”, “1/4 cup water”, “1 tbsp apple cider vinegar”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add onion and garlic, saut\u00e9 until softened.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add vegan beef strips and cook for 5 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mix barbecue sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, water, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour sauce mixture over vegan beef and stir well.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Simmer for 15 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the strips.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve hot with your favorite sides.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “280 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “20 g”, “fatContent”: “10 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “25 g”}}