Vegan Soul Food Recipe Book: Delicious Plant-Based Meal

Soul food is all about comfort, tradition, and flavor-packed meals that bring people together around the table. For those following a plant-based lifestyle, vegan soul food opens the door to all the heart and heritage of the classics—without sacrificing taste or nostalgia.

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just starting to explore plant-based eating, a vegan soul food recipe book is your passport to rich, satisfying dishes that nourish the body and soul.

In this blog post, I’ll share one of my favorite recipes inspired by the best of vegan soul food cookbooks: Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens & BBQ Jackfruit with cornbread. This recipe brings together smoky, savory jackfruit, tender greens, and fluffy cornbread for a meal that’s sure to win over vegans and omnivores alike.

If you’ve ever craved the warmth of Southern cuisine but wanted a plant-based twist, you’re in the right place. Get ready to savor every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan soul food isn’t just about omitting animal products—it’s about celebrating the deep, soulful flavors that make Southern cooking so beloved. This recipe captures the essence of traditional dishes while using wholesome, plant-based ingredients.

Smoky BBQ jackfruit mimics the texture and flavor of pulled pork, while collard greens are slowly simmered to perfection with aromatic spices. The vegan cornbread is moist, crumbly, and an absolute must for sopping up all those delicious juices.

With this recipe, you’ll enjoy:

Hearty comfort food that’s 100% vegan and packed with nutrients. Rich, authentic Southern flavors—without the cholesterol or heaviness.

Easy-to-find ingredients and step-by-step instructions, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Endless opportunities to customize and add your own twist.

“Vegan soul food is about honoring tradition, embracing creativity, and feeding both the body and the spirit.”

Ingredients

Vegan BBQ Jackfruit

Southern-Style Collard Greens

Vegan Cornbread

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Saucepan or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (8×8-inch for cornbread)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Colander (for rinsing jackfruit and greens)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Instructions

Prepare the Vegan BBQ Jackfruit

1. Drain and rinse the jackfruit thoroughly. Use your hands or two forks to shred the jackfruit pieces, discarding any seeds or tough core portions.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and cover the pan. Let the jackfruit simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it absorbs most of the broth and softens.
6. Stir in the vegan BBQ sauce. Continue cooking, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more BBQ sauce if you like it extra saucy.
7. Remove from heat and set aside. Keep warm.

Make the Southern-Style Collard Greens

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.
3. Stir in the collard greens, tossing to coat in the oil and aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the greens begin to wilt.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender and the broth is flavorful.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Uncover and cook for 5 more minutes to reduce excess liquid if desired.
7. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Bake the Vegan Cornbread

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the plant milk, oil, and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 2 minutes to slightly curdle.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
7. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Customize your greens: Try substituting kale or mustard greens for collards, or use a mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Add smoky depth: For a more pronounced smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the jackfruit or sprinkle in extra smoked paprika.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeño to the greens or a dash of hot sauce to the jackfruit.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the cornbread for a celiac-friendly meal.
• Switch up the BBQ sauce: Experiment with different flavors—smoky, sweet, or spicy vegan BBQ sauces all work beautifully.
• Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions of jackfruit or greens for easy, comforting meals later on.

“Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! Soul food is about family and improvisation—use what you love and what you have on hand.”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are approximate and will vary based on specific brands and modifications.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan soul food feast is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also shines alongside other classic Southern-inspired dishes. Serve your BBQ jackfruit and collard greens with a side of creamy vegan mac and cheese, candied yams, or a crisp green salad for a colorful, satisfying plate.

Don’t forget a dollop of extra BBQ sauce or a drizzle of hot sauce on the side!

If you’re hosting a family gathering or a plant-based potluck, pair this meal with some delicious Allens Green Beans for even more Southern flair. For dessert, try the sweet and crunchy Almond Cashew Clusters Recipe or explore our Almond Cake And Pastry Filling Recipes for a perfect finish.

“Serve with love and plenty of napkins—true soul food is meant to be savored with both hands!”

Conclusion

A great vegan soul food recipe book is more than a collection of meals—it’s a bridge between cherished tradition and vibrant, compassionate cuisine. This Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens & BBQ Jackfruit with cornbread is just one example of how plant-based eating can honor the past while embracing the future.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this meal delivers warmth, bold flavors, and true comfort. I hope it inspires you to try more vegan soul food recipes and maybe even create your own family favorites.

Remember, every dish is an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and nourish body and soul. Happy cooking!