Why You’ll Score Big With This Vegan Football Appetizer

Finger food is always your best bet when it comes to party starters. Forget the forks and fall in love with this catch!

• Meant for a crowd. Each batch easily makes 15 – 20 mini football pastries, depending on the size of your cookie cutter. It’s a great way to stretch your ingredients and make sure no one walks away hungry.
• Fast and easy. They only take 20 minutes to bake and come together in a flash. You can even enlist the kids to help with the assembly process to speed things along.
• High in protein. Vegan ground meat tastes just like conventional beef and is an equally rich source of complete protein. That means you could turn these appetizers into a meal with some veggies to round out your plate!

Key Ingredients

Just eight ingredients, not counting water, stand between you and snacking satisfaction. Here are the essentials you need to stock up on:

Vegan ground meat: One of the most popular meat alternatives on the market, there’s no end to vegan options for ground beef! Use any brand you prefer, fresh or frozen and thawed, or make your own from TVP, crumbled tempeh, seitan, lentils, and/or nuts.

Onion: Start by sautéing an onion and your kitchen will instantly smell amazing. Yellow is fine here, but you can use white or red, or switch things up with shallots or leeks for a change of pace.

Garlic: There’s no thing as too much garlic. Consider the two cloves listed here as a starting suggestion; add to taste.

Green peas: For a pop of color and vegetable infusion, frozen peas are the perfect mix-in. Kids won’t even know they’re eating their veggies hidden inside these vegan super bowl snacks!

Puff pastry: The real star of the show, frozen puff pastry takes all the hassle out of prep work. Read on to learn more about this essential staple.

Flour: Regular all-purpose will do the trick here unless you need a gluten-free option. You can use white rice flour or potato starch in that case, since it only takes a small amount to prevent the pastry from getting too sticky.

Coconut oil: Add richness and shine with just a little dab! You could substitute melted vegan butter or simply olive oil if you’d prefer.

Is Puff Pastry Vegan?

Traditionally, puff pastry is a type of laminated dough, made with many thin layers of butter. This is still true for some high-end bakeries and gourmet grocers, but many more storebought options are now “accidentally” vegan! Always read labels to verify, since formulas are liable to change at any time.

Brands Of Vegan Puff Pastry

Availability will vary depending on your location and the season, since some view puff pastry as a holiday item only. Here are the best vegan choices found in the US:

• Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry
• Jus-Rol Puff Pastry
• Schar Puff Pastry (Gluten Free)
• Aussie Bakery Puff Pastry
• Pampas Puff Pastry Sheets

Where to Buy Vegan Puff Pastry

Most mainstream grocery stores should have at least one option readily available in the freezer section, while more specialized varieties and brands can be purchased online. When in doubt, start your hunt here:

• Target
• Walmart
• Whole Foods
• Sprouts Farmers Market
• Safeway/Randall’s
• Albertson’s
• HEB
• Amazon Fresh

Step-By-Step Instructions

Here’s the rundown on how to make these vegan game day puff pastry footballs!

Step 1: Prepare the vegan ground meat according to the package instructions. In a sauté pan, heat oil, sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add frozen peas and cook until warmed. Add the vegan ground meat, cook for 4 minutes, remove from heat, and set aside.

Step 2: Sprinkle flour over a flat surface, and using a rolling pin, roll puff pastry sheets until they are twice their original size. Cut out football shapes of uniform size and place half on a lined or greased baking sheet.

Step 3: Brush a thin layer of melted coconut oil along the edges of the dough on the baking sheet. Spoon taco meat onto the center of each pastry piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border for sealing.

Step 4: Cut lace marks into the remaining football-shaped pastry pieces (these will be the tops). Place them atop the bottom dough, covering the plant-based meat filling, and seal tightly using a fork to crimp the edges together. Brush the tops with coconut oil and bake for 20 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and enjoy as soon as they cool!

Tips For Success

Puff pastry is the Swiss army knife of appetizers and desserts, savory and sweet. You don’t need any baking experience to transform it into impressive treats! If this is your first time working with it, here’s how to use puff pastry like a pro:

1. Let the package of frozen puff pastry thaw completely before working with it; either in the fridge overnight, or on the counter for 1 – 2 hours. If it’s still partially frozen when you unfold it, it’s more likely to crack or tear.
2. Lightly flour both the counter and the top of the dough so it doesn’t stick to either your working surface or the rolling pin. You may need to reapply as you work.
3. Be careful not to over-stuff each football hand pie. Make sure the edges are sealed with a fork all the way around to prevent the filling from leaking out.
4. Brush the tops with coconut oil right before baking to ensure a brilliant golden-brown finish.

Flavor Ideas And Adaptations

The real beauty of such a simple, foolproof formula is that it’s ideal for putting your own unique spin on. Here are a few winning ideas to pump up the flavor:

• Cheese pizza: Add shredded vegan mozzarella and marinara sauce or sundried tomatoes.
• Smoky BBQ: Add smoked paprika and your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Yellow curry: Add madras curry powder and cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Breakfast bites: Swap the vegan ground meat for crumbled or chopped vegan breakfast sausage and use diced potatoes or shredded hash browns instead of peas.

Alternate Shapes

If it’s not game day, you can use any cookie cutter shape you like, not just footballs! In fact, you don’t need cookie cutters at all. You can simply cut squares with your knife or use a drinking glass as a template to make circles. For more festive ideas, consider:

• Hearts for Valentine’s Day
• Trees for Christmas
• Stars for Hanukkah
• Four-leaf clovers for St. Patrick’s Day

More Vegan Super Bowl Snacks You’ll Love

• Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
• Vegan Bagel Bites
• Poppin’ Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
• Vegan Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip
• Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Print

Football Puff Pastries

Get ready for game day with these football puff pastries! Fill vegan puff pastry with vegan ground meat and veggies and you'll score big in the flavor department!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword football hand pie, football puff pastry, vegan hand pie, vegan puff pastries

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 15 pastries

Calories 210kcal

Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Equipment

• football cookie cutters

Ingredients

• 1 package vegan ground meat any brand will work
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 tablespoons oil
• ½ yellow onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ½ cup frozen peas
• 2 sheets puff pastry one standard package (most are accidentally vegan), thawed according to package instructions
• Flour for dusting surface
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil melted

Instructions

• Prepare vegan ground meat per package instructions.
• In a saute pan, heat oil, add onion and garlic, and cook until translucent. Add frozen peas and cook until warm. Add vegan ground meat and cook for 4 minutes, remove from heat, and set aside.
• Preheat oven to 400F. Sprinkle flour over a flat surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out puff pastry sheets until they’re 2x as large as its original size. Cut football shapes (any size as long as they’re uniform) out of the dough and lay half of the footballs on a lined or greased baking sheet.
• Using your finger, rub a very thin layer of melted coconut oil along the edges of the dough on the baking sheet. Add taco meat to the center of each piece of pastry dough leaving 1/2 inch clear for sealing the bottom dough to the top.
• Slice football lace marks into the remaining football-shaped pastry dough pieces (these will be the tops). Place on top of the bottom pastry dough, covering the plant meat filling, and seal tightly using a fork. Push down hard with the fork prongs to crimp or the dough may not stay closed. Brush top with coconut oil and bake for 20 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and enjoy as soon as they cool!

Notes

This recipe makes about 15-20 football puff pastries depending on your football cookie cutter and how thin you roll the puff pastry. We used the big and medium size of these cookie cutters.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 83mg | Potassium: 39mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 37IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 7mg | Iron: 1mg

Photos by Michelle Cehn, all rights reserved.

The post Football Puff Pastries (Easy Vegan Game Day Appetizer) appeared first on World of Vegan.

What’s more is that we’ve also got a delightful vegan ranch dip recipe that’ll blow the store-bought options out of the water. 

If you love cauliflower as much as me, you’ll also love roasted cauliflower steaks, vegan cauliflower tacos (great for parties as well), and this easy squash and cauliflower soup.

Why This Is The Best Cauliflower Wings Recipe

If you could only pick one vegan cauliflower wing recipe to try, make it this one! I will never make another wing recipe again because these are already perfection. Here’s why they’re the best:

• Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe a breeze, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks!
• Golden and Crispy – Achieve a satisfying crunch with a perfect balance of breading and baking, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite.
• Perfect for parties – These cauliflower wings are a great finger food for parties. Serve them with toothpicks and dipping sauce!
• Crowd-pleasing – They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and vegan! Anyone can chow down on these tasty treats without worry. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is if you made enough!

Ingredient Notes

For the Wings

• Cauliflower—Use fresh cauliflower and chop into uniform-sized florets for consistent baking. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw first and pat dry with a clean lint-free kitchen towel to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• White rice flour—Or regular all-purpose flour works too. This helps to thicken the batter and crisp up into golden deliciousness!
• Vegan wing sauce—I used Frank’s Red Hot which is easy to find at more grocery stores.

For the Dipping Sauce

• Vegan mayo—Choose any plant-base mayonnaise to create a creamy base for the ranch dip.
• Vegan sour cream—Opt for a dairy-free sour cream alternative for richness and tanginess.
• Vegan Worcestershire sauce—Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly. If you can’t find any, feel free to omit it.
• White vinegar—Adds a touch of acidity to balance out the richness.
• Fresh herbs—Dill, parsley, and chives add tons of flavor to this vegan ranch dip. You can use dried herbs, but you’ll need to adjust the amount 3:1 fresh to dry.

How to Make Vegan Cauliflower Wings

Vegan wings are easy to make and incredibly delicious with just a few simple ingredients! All you need is some cauliflower, seasonings, and your favorite vegan buffalo sauce.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Wash the cauliflower and chop it into florets. You can make them bigger or small depending on your preference of wing size.

Step 3: Combine the water, flour and dry ingredients into a large bowl to make a batter.

Step 4: Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter to thoroughly coat and then place on the prepared baking tray.

Step 5: Bake in the oven on the center rack until they are slightly golden brown on top. Meanwhile, prepare the vegan ranch dressing by whisking all ingredients together well in a large bowl.

Step 6: When the wings are ready, toss them in your choice of wing sauce to evenly coat. Return wings to the oven for another 5 minutes to crisp up.

Serve your vegan chicken wings with the vegan ranch dip and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• To help the batter stick better to the cauliflower wings, pat dry your cauliflower first after washing. If they’re dripping with water it will dilute the batter and take longer for the wings to crisp up in the oven.
• Space your vegan wings out evenly on the baking tray so that they evenly coat. You can also cook these in an air fryer for even less time! Spread them out evenly and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Servings Suggestions and Variations

If you’re looking to make a little more of a meal out of your vegan buffalo cauliflower wings and ranch dip or want some ideas to make it your own, don’t fret! We’ve got some wonderful suggestions for you right here:

• Snack With a Wrap– This Rainbow Lavash Wrap will make an excellent (and beautiful) addition to your plate! You could even throw some of the buffalo cauliflower wings into it for some truly miraculous flavor moments.
• Party With Pasta – Cold pasta can be a real treat and our Fresh Picnic Pasta Salad is a great way to make more of a meal with your buffalo cauliflower wings.
• Game Day Spread – Make a full spread of vegan party appetizers to please a crowd. Along with these buffalo cauliflower wings, serve some football puff pastries, Hasselback potatoes, herbed polenta fries, and vegan pretzel bites.
• BBQ-Flavored – Much like these Barbecue Seitan Wings, you can add a delicious BBQ sauce to these cauliflower wings instead of buffalo sauce.
• More Dipping Sauces – You can never have too many options when it comes to dipping these vegan cauliflower wings! Try this creamy dill dressing or this vegan buffalo queso cheese dip to double down on the buffalo flavors!

Storage

Since cauliflower has high water content, these wings are best eaten right out of the oven but if you find yourself with leftovers, stick them in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for a few days.

To reheat, the oven is best for maintaining crispiness. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes at 350 degrees F until heated through. An air-fryer also works well for reheating. For something faster, microwaving is fine, too. The cauliflower wings just won’t be as crispy as when first baked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Print

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

These vegan cauliflower buffalo wings make a perfect game-day snack, and once you try them, you'll be hooked for life. They are gluten-free and of course, vegan!The ranch dip is especially delicious. I know it takes a little extra time to whip it together yourself (rather than using a store-bought option) but it will be worth it, I promise!

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizer, buffalo, cauliflower, gluten free, spicy, vegan wings

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 8 -10 servings

Calories 338kcal

Author Alex Thomopoulos

Ingredients

Vegan Wings

• 2 medium cauliflower heads (about 2 lbs each) chopped into florets
• 1 cup white rice flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup water
• 1 12-ounce bottle buffalo wing sauce I used Frank’s Red Hot which is available at most supermarkets

Vegan Ranch Dip

• 1 cup vegan mayo
• ½ cup vegan sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
• 1 clove garlic minced
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 450°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Combine the water, white rice flour, salt, paprika, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Whisk together to combine.
• Thoroughly coat the cauliflower florets with the batter and place on the prepared baking sheet, evenly spaced out.
• Bake on the center rack for 18-20 minutes, until they are slightly brown on the top.
• Meanwhile, prepare the vegan ranch dip. Add all of the ingredients to a bowl and mix well to combine. Set aside.
• Remove cauliflower wings from the oven and coat them in buffalo sauce. For best results, pour the sauce into a bowl and carefully dip each cauliflower into the sauce using a slotted spoon or fork (cauliflower will be hot).
• Return buffalo cauliflower back into oven to crisp up for another 5 minutes.

Video

Notes

Tip – If you don’t have white rice flour, it is fine to use regular flour if gluten-free is not a necessity for you.

Storage – Store leftover vegan wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 338kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 361mg | Potassium: 491mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 331IU | Vitamin C: 74mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 1mg

Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings recipe by Alex Thomopolous for World of Vegan. Photos by Amanda McGillicuddy. Copyright of World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

The post Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Wings appeared first on World of Vegan.

Growing kids especially need almost continuous access to stay full and focused, fueling a full day of work or play. It’s also a great opportunity to sneak more vitamins and nutrients into your picky eaters, simultaneous staving off the impulse to overeat at mealtimes. When energy levels run low, a quick bite can be a real lifesaver.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to navigate around the junk food out there, especially when cravings strike. There’s nothing wrong with an occasional treat, but things like chips and cookies should be the exception rather than the rule.

Avoid the pitfalls of processed foods, get out of your snacking rut, and rediscover the fun of healthy snacking all over again. Just a little bit of planning can take the stress out of that midday break.

Easy Vegan Kids Snack Ideas

The best snacks for kids will always be fresh, whole foods. Sugar, fat, and salt are non-issues when you’re serving up the basics, like cut apples and baby carrots. That doesn’t mean it needs to be boring, though! Get everyone on board by dressing up fruits and veggies with sauces and dips, playful presentations, and crave-worthy flavors. Try fun lunchboxes to make snacking more fun!

Here are a few healthy snacks you can whip up anytime, no recipes required.

• Fruit
• Hummus with carrot sticks
• Sliced apples with peanut butter
• Dates stuffed with nut butter
• Fruit kebabs
• Nuts (cashews, peanuts, seasoned walnuts, etc.)
• Trail mix
• Refried bean quesadilla or mini burritos
• Ants on a log (celery with peanut butter and raisins)
• Smoothies
• Popcorn
• Edamame in pods
• Sliced bell pepper (with vegan ranch dip)

Vegan Snack Recipes for Kids

Great snacks shouldn’t take a lot of time, effort, or money. Here are some delicious ideas that anyone can make!

Green Blender Muffins (with Spinach and Banana)

If you’re struggling to get your kid to eat their greens, whip up a batch of these green blender muffins! You can call them “Monster Muffins” or “Dino Muffins” to make them extra-fun. These are great for toddlers, growing kids, and even babies trying Baby Led Weaning. You can make a batch and freeze them and pull them out for a secretly healthy quick breakfast, snack, or lunchbox addition.

Air Fryer Tofu Cubes

These tofu snacks are encrusted with nutritional yeast, known by some as vegan catnip. You might not normally think of bean curd as prime snacking material, but these buttery, cheese little cubes are an excellent high-protein alternative to plain popcorn. Especially when you want something more substantial between meals, this is the recipe to eat on repeat.

Vegan Bagel Bites

These easy vegan bagel bites take the universally beloved flavors of cheese pizza and transform it into an almost instant treat. They’re ready in minutes, freezer-friendly, and great for packed lunches too.

Roasted Chickpeas

These roasted chickpeas are insanely addictive and stunningly healthy! All you need are beans and a handful of spices to create a crunchy savory sensation.

Sweet Potato Fries

If your kiddo loves french fries, try making them a bit healthier by using sweet potatoes! Sweet potatoes contain far more nutrition than white potatoes, and they arguably taste even better. These will never steer you wrong as a side, starter, or snack. They’re a snap when made in the air fryer, and much healthier than anything deep fried. Save the oil and load up on flavor instead.

Date & Walnut Healthy “Cookie Dough” Truffles

These delicious nut and date balls taste like a cross between chocolate ganache and cookie dough. For something so impossibly decadent, it’s hard to believe they’re made with just nuts and dried fruits! Anyone with a sweet tooth will be draw to these chocolatey morsels; no one needs to know their wholesome secrets.

Chia Pudding

Packed with nutrition, chia pudding can be meal prepped in under 5 minutes and served up for snacks, breakfast, or even dessert. Layer it with fresh fruit, vegan yogurt, or granola for extra excitement.

Quinoa Nuggets

Delight your kids with these flavorful chewy nuggets made with quinoa! They’re surprisingly easy to make and loaded with healthy whole foods—a far better option than traditional chicken nuggets.

Pizza Rolls

These pizza spirals are a nostalgic favorite for anyone who grew up in the 90s, and now kids can enjoy them today, without all the processed ingredients! It only takes four simple ingredients to get some gooey pizza goodness on the table. The recipe is positively foolproof.     

Khichdi

Khichdi has long been a staple for vegan and vegetarian kids in India, made from easily digestible whole grains and legumes. Traditionally a simple, warming stew, it can also be rolled into balls that are easier for toddlers to pick up and feed themselves. The whole family can enjoy this one as a main dish, too.

Air Fryer Broccoli

This easy-to-make broccoli isn’t just a side dish; it’s also a great snack for kids! A touch of garlic goes a long way in transforming those green florets into prime snacking material. It may sound like a stretch, but veggie-lovers will gobble them right up!

Pumpkin Muffins

These vegan pumpkin muffins aren’t just for fall. Everyone will be drawn to the gooey chocolate chips strewn throughout that tender crumb, all while loading up on healthy pumpkin puree and unsweetened applesauce in every bite.

Tropical Mango Banana Smoothie

Smoothies are the best answer to a kid having a meltdown that claims they’re not hungry. Just a few sips of this refreshing blend will brighten their mood right away.

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

This recipe proves that potatoes don’t have the monopoly on this concept. Lightly breaded with a crunchy herbed crust, they’re so delicious that they don’t even need a dipping sauce. It’s hard to resist eating them right off the sheet!

Deviled Potatoes

Have you ever tried deviled potatoes? These are great for kids and adults, and will make you forget all about eggs. Naturally, there’s no cholesterol in these animal-free alternatives that have just as much rich flavor. They’re fancy enough to serve at a party but quick enough to enjoy anytime.

Corn Ribs

You’ve probably seen corn ribs on Instagram or TikTok. They’re a viral hit that’s as much fun to serve as it is to eat. It’s the same concept as corn on the cob, but the wedges take the distinct shape of ribs to create a whole new textural experience.

Cheesy Kale Chips

Swap the potato chips for kale chips! These cheesy kale chips will make kids crave vegetables like never before. It won’t be a struggle to put away a whole head of the leafy greens when they’re coated in a rich, cheesy mixture of blended sunflower seeds and nutritional yeast. You might want to double the batch because they’ll disappear in no time.

Kids Bars

Snack bars are not always the healthiest option, but these portable, filling, tasty bars are a favorite among kids and the easiest dependable food source to toss in your bag when you’re running out the door.

When choosing snack bars for young children, there are fantastically healthy options made from dates, nuts, and fruit. And there are less health-optimal options made with refined sugar, oils, and chocolate. Kids will naturally prefer the later if offered both varieties, but if you only keep the healthier options at home, most kids love them.

Look for bars that are low in added sugars and high in fiber, as this helps maintain steady energy levels and supports digestion. Health-minded parents may also look for bars with simple ingredient lists, avoiding artificial additives and preservatives. For those seeking vegan options made without dairy or eggs, there are plenty of choices available.

Whole Food Snack Bars (Healthier Options)

• Lara Bars (most are vegan and made with whole food ingredients)
• That’s It Bars
• Yumi Organic Superfood Bars
• Skout Organic Bars

Popular Snack Bars (Sweet)

• Bobo’s Oat Bites
• MadeGood
• Clif Bars
• Z-Bars
• GoMacro Kids Bars
• Nature’s Bakery

Always check the label for any hidden animal-derived ingredients and allergen warnings, especially if your child has specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

All-Natural Fruit Snacks

• Fruit leather is essentially fruit puree that’s been dried in flat sheets for a shelf stable alternative to fresh. There’s no added sugar which makes it a smart way to curb sweet cravings.
• Gummies are not all created equal; many aren’t even vegan! Stay away from candies made with gelatin and sugar in favor of fruit snacks made with pectin and real fruit juices.

Amara’s Freeze-Dried Smoothie Melts

Amara’s smoothie melts are one of our favorite packages snacks because they’re actually healthy, but they taste like candy so kids love them! My toddler is obsessed.

The ingredients are so clean and simple: organic fruit, organic coconut milk, and organic carrots. That’s it! They have all the flavor and nutrition of a refreshing fruit smoothie with none of the spills, smears, or splashes. And no added sugar!

Two of the flavors are vegan (mango carrot and carrot raspberry) and they are ideal for toddlers, older kids, and even the youngest ones just learning to self-feed. Parents, you can munch on them too — I do! They come in a resealable bag and won’t melt, so they’re very convenient to pack in lunches or toss in your bag and take on-the-go. You can even find them on Amazon.

Pssst! If your little one is just starting to explore solid foods, or you’re trying baby led weaning, these can also help babies practice their grip and improve hand-eye coordination.

Solely Organic Whole Fruit Gummies

Solely makes some of the best fruit chews—they are made with just fruit and Vitamin C, and totally delicious! These are lunchbox staples.

Bear Snacks Fruit Rolls

These adorable fruit rolls are widely accessible in the United States, made from just fruit, and they come with a fun collectable cards with animal facts on them! These are also great to pack in school lunches.

Trader Joe’s Fruit Leather Buttons

Leave it to Trader Joe’s to find a new spin on healthy fruit snacks, making them even more fun for kids! These organic peel-off “buttons” are flat round fruit leather pieces that kids can pull off of a thin piece of paper in the package.

Fruit Leather

Almost every grocery store and big box store carries fruit leather, and the ingredients just keep getting better! The colorful organic fruit leather pictured below is from Target, and these are one of the most budget-friendly options for fun fruity kids snacks and treats.

Froot Thief Fruit String

A new kid on the block, The Froot Thief brand is poised to become one of the most popular, spinning fruit-based chews into long playful strings that are each unbelievably nine feet long! These are not very widely available yet, but you can snag a case on Amazon to support them in these early days.

Cereal and Granola

Dry cereal can be a great finger food, especially on long car trips or days outside since it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Pack single servings of your favorite vegan cereal in reusable pouches or zip top bags for grab-and-go convenience.

Granola has potential as well, like cereal, but can be more difficult to eat without utensils. Varieties with bigger clumps and clusters are best to prevent crumbs.

Plant-Based Cheese

Cheese is can be a fun addition to kids lunchboxes or snack trays, especially since it comes in so many forms. These days you may be able to find vegan cheese sticks (from brands like Miyoko’s and Daiya), creamy spreadable wedges (like these from Good Planet Foods), and even a plant-based version of the iconic wax-wrapped Babybel wheel.

Plant-Based Yogurt

Plant-based yogurt now comes in ever flavor and color imaginable! You can even find vegan yogurt tubes (for all the Go-gurt lovers) and Forager Projects’s cashewmilk yogurt pouches ideal for lunchboxes, that are nearly identical to the conventional options.

Just keep in mind most yogurts are loaded with sugar, so even though they contain beneficial probiotics, they should probably fall into a “sweets and treats” category rather than an everyday snack.

Veggie Chips, Crisps, Puffs, and Straws

Bamba is a beloved snack for kids and toddlers, especially popular in Israel. These peanut-flavored puffed snacks are not only delicious but also a source of essential nutrients. They are made primarily from peanuts and contain no artificial flavors or preservatives. Bamba is a fantastic choice for parents looking to introduce their children to nuts in a safe and enjoyable way, as it melts in the mouth and is easy for little ones to handle. It’s a satisfying and crunchy treat that can be a great addition to a well-balanced snack repertoire for kids.

Harvest Snaps Baked Pea Crisps are an excellent option for health-conscious parents seeking a tasty and wholesome snack for their kids. Made from green peas, these crisps are not only vegan but also rich in plant-based protein and fiber. They have a satisfying crunch that kids love and they’re a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your child’s diet while keeping snack time enjoyable.

Chickpea puffs are another popular chip alternative for kids. The brand Hippies popularized this gluten-free and vegan snack that’s also a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. They come in fun flavors, including a vegan cheese flavor!

Freeze-dried vegetables seem like a questionable choice for young kids, but they’re surprisingly delicious, even if your little ones turn up their noses at the veggies on their plates! The drying process concentrates their natural sweetness, so single-ingredient crisps that are just corn, tomatoes, or peas take on greater depth of flavor.

Veggie straws or chips taste more like potato chips that everyone knows and loves but add a little bit more nutrition into the picture. They’re a good way to wean kids off less healthy snacks while still satisfying with a similar experience.

Cauliflower puffs prove that cauliflower really can do anything it puts its mind to! Puffed snacks are traditionally made from corn, but these use everyone’s favorite cruciferous vegetable as the base instead, coating them with dairy-free cheesy powder for that perfect savory finish.

You can also make your own chips like these zero-waste crispy potato skin chips and these kale chips!

More Vegan Kids Resources and Recipes

• Kids Coloring page (free printable pdf)
• Vegan Children’s Books
• Rainbow Veggie Mac & Cheese
• Best Vegan Hot Dog Brands
• Green Toddler Blender Muffins

Many thanks to Amara Organic Foods for supporting this article, and for making amazing healthy snacks for kids! Many of their products are vegan and we encourage you to explore for your own kids.

The post 50+ Vegan Snacks for Kids {Plant-Based} appeared first on World of Vegan.

On January 2, 2019, Carl’s Jr. became the very first national fast food chain restaurant in the U.S. to offer a vegan burger. For that fact alone, we have to give the company major kudos and a lot of credit for getting the ball rolling in feeding the vegan community. Keep it up, Carl’s Jr.! And now, just a few years later, almost every fast food restaurant (except McDonald’s!) has rolled our their own spin on veggie burgers. Exciting times.

Quick Carl’s Jr. Menu Ordering Tips

Place a vegan-friendly order at Carl’s Jr. should be quick because there aren’t many choices any longer. Everyone misses the Beyond Sausage Breakfast Sandwich and now the rice and beans, tortilla chips, and side salad seem to have disappeared. So sad!

If you’ll be ordering a Famous Star Burger, remember to ask for no mayo, meat, egg, or cheese. Add extra lettuce, tomato, sliced onions, pickles, and/or jalapenos instead. More information about Beyond Burgers can be found on their Beyond Meat FAQ page.

• Beyond Famous Star Burger
• Potatoes (Hash rounds, waffle fries, natural cut fries)
• Beverage

Carl’s Jr. Vegan Menu

What’s Vegan at Carl’s Jr.? Here is everything you can order that’s vegan on the menu. For an extra-satisfying burger, feel free to bring your own dairy-free cheese and vegan mayo!

Carl’s Jr. Burger

• The Beyond Famous Star Burger (ask for no mayo or cheese) is a charbroiled Beyond Burger patty with iceberg lettuce, yellow onion, tomato, dill pickles, and special sauce (which does happen to be vegan), all on a pillowy sesame seed bun.

Vegan Sides

• Crisscut Fries (aka waffle fries)
• Guacamole
• Hash Rounds
• Natural Cut Fries

Note: Availability varies for these items: cilantro lime rice, pico de gallo, and pinto beans.

Vegan Breads and Buns

• Corn Tortilla
• Flour Tortilla
• Plain Burger Bun
• Sesame Seed Burger Bun

Sauces

• Hot Sauce
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Sweet and Bold Barbecue

Carl’s Jr. Breakfast Menu

Unfortunately you won’t find much vegan on the Carl’s Jr. breakfast menu. The hash browns are vegan but that’s about it. Go for the options above instead.

Vegan-Friendly Beverages

• Dasani Bottled Water
• Fountain Drinks
• Hot Coffee (reg and decaf)
• Tea (unsweetened and sweetened)
• Simply Orange Juice

NOT Vegan at Carl’s Jr

All of these options contain milk or an animal-based broth, so they are not vegan-friendly.

• Biscuits
• Cotija
• Crema
• Fried Zucchini
• Green Sauce
• Onion Rings

Make Your Meal More Satisfying

Ordering vegan at Carl’s Jr. is easy because you only have a few options (though you can mix and match them to make many different meals) and the fries are a go. If they start offering vegan cheese, we’ll have even more flavor to add to our burgers and burritos and also be able to nosh on some nachos! If you’re searching to personalize your plant-based meal, here are a few suggestions:

• Pile on the Plant-Based Burgers – Carl’s Jr. offers single, double, and triple decker options, so you can fill your belly with as many Beyond burgers as you wish! Yum!
• Choose Your Own Cheese – If you just can’t bear eating a burger without cheese, bring your favorite vegan cheese along with you. Super simple to slip a slice or two between the buns.
• Power Up With Potatoes –  Because all of the potato products (hash rounds and both kinds of fries) are vegan-friendly, add a few for a topping of your side salad or just order one of everything! An easy and delicious way to add some bulk to your meal when out and about!

FAQs

Helpful Hints When Ordering Vegan at Carl’s Jr.

• Browse the Carl’s Jr. online menu before ordering.
• If ordering Carl’s Jr. through a delivery service, make sure you clearly specify any substitutions you would like. Especially concerning cheese and meats. If you’re worried that your request may not be honored (or seen by the server at Carl’s Jr.), it might be a better idea to go there directly to order. 
• Download the Nutrition and Allergen PDF to make sure that you are purchasing a vegan-friendly item. The products offered at Carl’s Jr. do change and the PDFs seem to be updated regularly.
• From past experience, it seems that most (if not all) seasonal drinks or foods are not vegan because of added dairy milk or milk derivatives. Be careful when new and exciting seasonal products are offered at Carl’s Jr. Double check the allergens and ingredients PDF to make sure that the item is vegan before purchasing.

Creating a Kinder and More Accessible Carl’s Jr.

It’s only a matter of time before more vegan options land on the menu. That’s the direction all the big fast food chains are heading, and Carl’s Jr. knows that they can add a few more items that are vegan-friendly, such as vegan cheese. But meanwhile, we can always write to, call, or contact the managers of any location to make our requests. 

How to Order Vegan at Other Chains

Looking for more ways to order vegan at other fast food chains? Check out our Vegan Wendy’s Guide, Arby’s Vegan Menu options, Del Taco Vegan Menu Guide, and how to order vegan at Wienerschnitzel.

Plus, don’t miss our comprehensive Vegan Fast Food Guide to help you navigate the fast food space as a whole!

Have you found any other options to be veganizable? Did you find something amazing that we missed? Let us know by tagging #worldofvegan and sharing your favorite vegan-at-Carls-Jr. creations with all of us!

This article is not sponsored and we are in no way affiliated with Carls Jr. At the time of this article, the foods mentioned above are vegan. Since restaurants constantly update their menus and add or take away items, please keep this in mind when ordering your food. There may be new items that are vegan at Carl’s Jr. and not listed or items listed here as vegan, which are no longer vegan. Take care to double-check.

The post Carl’s Jr. Vegan Menu + How to Order the Beyond Star Veggie Burger appeared first on World of Vegan.

Explore our best vegan party recipes and ideas—ranging from our popular cauliflower buffalo wings to simple chocolate covered football pretzels!

Vegan Football Party Appetizers

Cauliflower Buffalo Wings

Hungry for more delicious vegan Super Bowl snacks? Try these Cauliflower buffalo wings with this homemade ranch dipping sauce!

Football Puff Pastry Empanadas

These fun football-shaped empanadas are easy to make using puff pastry and perfect to serve up on game-day!

Wonton Taco Cups

These taco cups are one of the easiest vegan appetizers you’ll ever make using wonton wrappers and a cupcake pan! Just cook up your favorite vegan ground meat with some onion, garlic, and and other mix-ins you’d like, dollop some in a wonton wrapper lined cupcake tin, sprinkle with vegan cheese, and bake! Top with vegan sour cream, tomato, and green onion. Voila, game day appetizer served.

Vegan Jalapeño Poppers

Spice up your football party with these decadent jalapeño poppers! These are another quick-and-easy appetizer that you can pair with a creamy dip.

Tofu Fries

These crispy tofu fries encrusted with cheesy nutritional yeast can be made with just minutes of effort in the air fryer! They are healthy, delicious, and great to serve up with your favorite dips.

Seitan Wings

What’s a football game without wings? Not to worry, you can whip up finger-lickin’ good vegetarian wings made from tofu, cauliflower, or for the most realistic wings around, seitan! This recipe is a must if you’ll have meat lovers at the party.

Vegan Pizza Rolls

These cheesy pizza rolls are unbelievably easy to make using store-bought pizza dough, sauce, dairy-free cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings!

Crispy Potato Skin Chips

This recipe is for all our zero-waste environmentalist friends in the crowd! While football parties are usually flooded with single use plastic chip bags and dips contained in thick plastic tubs, these crispy potato skins are one less burden on planet Earth. Made from the potato skin scraps that are leftover after making a batch of mashed potatoes, these easy and salty chips are absolutely delicious with any vegan dip you have on the table.

Vegan Super Bowl Party Mains

• Epic Meatball Subs
• Homemade Black Bean Burgers
• Pizza Burgers
• Vegan Chili
• Vegan Quesadillas
• Enchilada Pasta

Tasty Vegan Tacos

• Beef Lover’s Meaty Tacos
• Cauliflower Tacos
• Pulled Oyster Mushroom Tacos
• Vegan Fish Tacos

Sweet Treats

• Vegan Rice Krispie Treats (shape them into footballs!)
• No-Bake Chocolate Cookies
• Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
• Stuffed Dates
• Double Chocolate Vegan Donuts
• Brownies

Football Chocolate Pretzels

Celebrate football season with these simple chocolate-covered vegan football pretzels! You will need vegan white chocolate (yes, it exists!) to create the football design.

Vegan Super Bowl Dips

• Creamy White Bean Dip
• Epic Hummus Board
• Artichoke & White Bean Spread
• Vegan Texas Caviar
• Olive Hummus
• Artichoke Dip
• Chickpea “Tuna” Salad
• Vegan Chicken Salad

More Football Sides and Appetizers

• Air Fried Sweet Potato Fries
• Fried Oyster Mushrooms
• Air Fryer Potato Wedges
• Mini Vegan Pot Pies
• Crunchy Pizza Bites
• Herbed Polenta Fries
• Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins
• Crispy Vegan Onion Rings

Vegan NFL Players

It’s an exciting time when tons of NFL players are embracing a plant-based diet to optimize their athletic performance. Check out these 10 players who refuse to eat meat. Even players like Tom Brady are touting the power of plants to improve their game! Want even more inspiration? You can find plenty from now-retired vegan NFL player David Carter (aka The 300 Pound Vegan) below.

What are your favorite vegan Super Bowl recipes? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

The post Best Vegan Super Bowl Party Recipes appeared first on World of Vegan.

Embracing a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t mean bidding farewell to the indulgent richness of buttery goodness. Whether you’ve recently learned about the atrocities of dairy farming, you’re looking to switch to more sustainable food choices, or you recently learned about the power of a plant-based diet for human health, you’ve come to the right place.

Butter is one of the easiest dairy-free switch-outs you can make in your fridge (aside from replacing cow’s milk with plant-based milk). With the abundance and quality of vegan butter products in the marketplace today, you can easily replace it without tasting the difference. And plant-based butter works just the same in recipes and cooking.

Whether you need some butter to spread on a grilled cheese, blend with sugar in a vegan birthday cake with dairy-free buttercream frosting, butter your morning toast, or melt on a baked potato, this guide to vegan butter has got you covered! And if homemade staples are your thing, we’ve got the BEST easy vegan butter recipe for you.

100% Vegan Butter Brands

We tried out these vegan butter brands and can attest that they’re all delicious and 100% vegan!

Earth Balance

This is the go-to dairy-free butter many vegan households—and it’s one of the most widely available! Earth Balance vegan butter tastes just as great as butter…many people like it even better! They have dozens of varieties, including whipped butter and baking sticks.

You can’t go wrong with any of the Earth Balance line of dairy-free butters, but when it comes to baking, their butter (and shortening) sticks replace the dairy versions with ease and delicious taste.

LeGrand

This coconut oil-based buttery spread can be used to butter toast or to make decadent sauces. This Quebec-based company offers a sea salt and unsalted variety which contains certified organic and non-GMO ingredients.

Miyoko’s Creamery European Style Cultured Vegan Butter

Brace your taste buds for this creamy butter. This is the good stuff so you want to use it where you are really going to taste it. I use it as a premium spread when I have a high-quality baguette or am making a special piece of toast. It will elevate anything you spread it on. It’s organic, non-GMO, and made without palm oil. It’s quickly becoming more accessible and can now even be found at Trader Joe’s! 

Miyoko’s vegan butter is also my go-to for popcorn. Melt a few pats and drizzle it over a freshly popped batch of kernels along with a few pinches of sea salt and a generous sprinkling of nutritional yeast for a game changer. It’s equally delicious slathered on freshly grilled corn on the cob.

Melt Organic

This rich and creamy organic spread is a favorite among many. It uses a blend of fruit and plant-based oils. Melt also recently launched vegan butter sticks that are optimized for baking with oils that are not high in omega 6 ALA’s (such as soybean, canola, and safflower).

Naturli’

This butter is 100% plant-based with a rich and buttery taste. It’s designed to be used just like butter, from spreading onto bread to sautéing and baking. Made from a blend of shea butter and coconut oil, this product contains mostly organic ingredients and is free of palm oil.

Wayfare Organic Dairy-Free Whipped Butter

Wayfare recently rebranded and is becoming quite a hot choice in the vegan scene. Their packaging is now modern and sleek, and their dairy-free products are quite good. Their butter is gluten-free, organic, non-gmo, soy-free, and parve, so it ticks many boxes.

The ingredients include: water, butter beans (neat!), coconut oil, sunflower oil, sea salt, cultured dextrose, sunflower lecithin, konjac root powder, natural flavor, and turmeric powder.

Wild Creamery Dairy-Free Oat Butter (European Style Butter Alternative)

Wildbrine is a rising vegan brand that was originally known for their kimchi. But they’ve recently branched out to offer a whole line of dairy-free dips, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan butter!

Wild Creamery plant-based butter is made with: coconut oil, water, sunflower oil, cashews, and 2% or less of: sunflower lecithin, yam, sea salt, cabbage, oats, lactobaccillus cultures, cultured dextrose. 

The Cultured Kitchen Better Buttah

One of the smaller brands on the list, you’ll be lucky to find this butter in specific natural foods stored and regions of the United States.

The original butter ingredients couldn’t be more simple: sunflower oil, sustainable palm oil, water, turmeric, and Himalayan sea salt. That’s it!

They also offer several fun varieties including garlic chive butter and even a sweet cinnamon date vanilla butter. Delicious. 

Butter Brands With Vegan Options

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter It’s Vegan

This notorious brand recently came out with a vegan version of their butter spread. It’s 100% non-dairy and Vegan Action Certified.

Country Crock Plant-Butter 

Longtime butter brand Country Crock finally joined the flock in releasing a dairy-free butter! You can find it at many mainstream grocery stores in the U.S. 

Nutiva Organic Buttery Coconut Oil

This a versatile, all-purpose cooking oil, but also doubles as a delicious butter alternative.

Land O Lakes Vegan Butter (“Plant-Based Creamy Spread”) 

This massive dairy company that has been in the news time and again for their mistreatment of dairy cows is the last brand we’d ever want to support. But even they are now offering their own vegan butter!

BEWARE: Smart Balance Vegan Butter (Most Butters from Smart Balance Aren’t Vegan!)

This dairy-free butter spread has been around forever and is available at just about any mass grocery store—but beware, most Smart Balance butters are not vegan! Most varieties have vitamin D added, which they source from sheep’s wool oil (lanolin). 

Whole Food Alternatives to Butter

It’s easy to find vegan butter in virtually all major grocery stores today, but before we go into the list of vegan butter brands to look for, let’s talk about some healthy plant-based alternatives you can use instead of butter! Here are our top two options for a vegan butter substitute. 

Refined Coconut Oil

If you want to keep things really simple you can use refined coconut oil in place of butter. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, and liquid when heated, so you can spread and melt this spreadable oil on hot toast. Note that you’ll want to sprinkle some salt on top to get that true buttery vibe as butter is traditionally loaded with salt and coconut oil doesn’t have any. 

But what about that coconut-y flavor? If you’re not into coconut, just get “refined coconut oil,” which has zero coconut flavor. If you want the coconut flavor, choose unrefined coconut oil (aka unfiltered coconut oil), which can be delicious in sweet recipes, or on toast or pancakes with some cinnamon and sugar!

You can also use coconut oil in your favorite recipes just as you would dairy butter! You can cook with it, bake with it, melt it, dollop it on a steaming stack of pancakes, etc. Virtually any recipe that calls for butter will work with coconut oil instead!

Avocado

Avocado is often considered “Nature’s Butter”—because you can mash and spread it on toast just like you would butter! It has that same desired fatty, delicious, savory vibe. Add a little salt (and maybe a dash of garlic powder), and you’ve got better-than-butter toast that’s actually nutritious. Thanks, nature! 

What to Consider When Picking a Vegan Butter?

What About Palm Oil? 

When you start looking into vegan butter substitutes, you’re likely to find palm oil on thee ingredient list of many. Most of the vegan butter brands use “sustainably sourced” and “ethically sourced” palm oil, but many still choose to support palm-oil-free options. Here are some fabulous palm-oil-free vegan butters:

• Miyoko’s Cultured Butter (coconut oil and cultured cashew milk base)
• Milkadamia Buttery Spread (macadamia nut base)
• Kite Hill Plant-Based Butter (almond base)

What About Plastic? Is There A Plastic-Free Zero-Waste Vegan Butter?

Yes, many plant-based butters come in plastic tubs. Even though these are usually recyclable (wash them first!), it’s much more sustainable to skip the single-use plastic altogether. Here is one vegan butter brand that uses plastic-free packaging:

• Miyoko’s Cultured Butter (packaged in cardboard)

What’s the Best Organic Vegan Butter? 

First of all, round-of-applause to you for choosing organic! Several of the brands listed above carry organic options, while a few are organic across their entire line of plant butters. Here are a few (of many) organic vegan butter options:

• Miyoko’s Butter (always organic)
• Earth Balance (organic butter options)

With so many dairy-free butter options, your only challenge is which to try first! Have fun with it—and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Vegan Butter Brands appeared first on World of Vegan.

Why Make Vegan Butter at Home

Why not? Here are a few reasons that we find important:

• Additive-Free and Super Fresh – Your homemade butter will not only be fantastically fresh, but it will be free of the added chemicals in all commercial brands to keep them shelf-stable.
• Pass on the Processed – Making your own butter guarantees that you know exactly what’s in your product.
• Go for Glass – No need for a plastic container or any waste. Glass is easier to clean, and you can use glassware already in your cupboard (aka jam jars). It also makes your butter look better. Zero-waste butter for the win!
• Scale Down Your Salt – You can regulate the amount of salt you add with no trouble at all. Trying to reduce your sodium intake? Add less. Can’t get enough of salty goodness? Add a little more!
• Festive Flavors – You can add any flavors you like including freshly chopped herbs, cayenne for color and spiciness, a punch of black pepper, or even some cinnamon for a sweet spread.

Are you ready to upgrade your every day, tasteless toast to an undeniably awesome, super creamy crispy bread experience?

Ingredient Notes

• Unflavored, Refined Coconut Oil – This is sold in a jar at most health food stores. The most common brand is Spectrum. “Virgin” coconut oil will taste like coconut, which is best to use for coconut-flavored dishes. “Refined” coconut oil will have no flavor and is the best for an all-purpose buttery spread.
• Sunflower or Safflower Oil – Both oils have a light, neutral flavor profile that contribute a smooth texture without overpowering other flavors.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Use plain, unsweetened plant milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Lecithin – This powerful little powder is used to emulsify or combine the ingredients. Although lecithin is most commonly made from soy, sunflower lecithin is becoming more popular. Look for it in the supplement section of health food stores or online. You can find sunflower lecithin powder here and refined coconut oil here! Both of these ingredients are easily found on Amazon, but it’s worth checking your local health food store first.

How To Make Homemade Vegan Butter

Easy peasy! In your blender add the coconut oil, sunflower oil, plant milk, lecithin powder, and salt, and process for a maximum of 60 seconds. Be careful not to overdo this step. Blending for too long might make the oils separate and that’s something you want to avoid.

Pour your creamy mixture into a chilled container and refrigerate. As soon as your blended butter is firm, it’s ready to spread!

This is a soft, spreadable butter. If you’d like something harder, simply decrease the sunflower or safflower oil and increase the coconut oil. You can start with ¾ cup sunflower or safflower and 1 cup coconut oil, and adjust by the tablespoon until you get your preferred texture. Just make sure that the total of both oils always equals 1¾ cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Use Homemade Vegan Butter

• Savory Spread: Use as you would any butter substitute—spread it onto bread, toast, and crackers. You can also use it as a spread for muffins and bagels.
• Popcorn: Melt the butter and drizzle it over vegan popcorn, then toss with seasonings.
• Buttery Flavor: When you need to add a buttery flavor to roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or sauces and gravies, use this homemade butter! It goes great with these cauliflower steaks, roasted potatoes and broccoli, and vegan stuffed acorn squash. Pretty much anytime you have a recipe that calls for butter or oil, this vegan butter can be used!
• Tea Time Topping: For those of you who (like me) love tea parties and tiny tea sandwiches, you’ll love having the option of shaping your own butter beauties. Pour your newly mixed butter mixture into a silicone baking mold (candy molds are the best size) before refrigerating. When the mixture is completely cool, gently pop out the adorable butter shapes onto some waxed paper or parchment. Arrange in a single layer in a covered container and store in the fridge. To serve, place these pleasant pats of butter in a pretty glass bowl (chilled) on the table. Voilà!
• Brunch: Place several sumptuous squares of this homemade vegan butter on your perfect, pan-fried pancakes along with mouthwatering maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Vegan waffles are also wonderful with this blissful, buttery blend. You can thank us later! 

More Amazing Vegan Spreads

• Vegan Nutella
• Baba Ganoush
• Oil-Free Hummus
• Vegan Buffalo Queso
• Roasted Beet Hummus
• Artichoke & White Bean Spread
• 5-Minute Jalapeño Olive Hummus

Print

Easy Vegan Butter Recipe {Dairy-Free}

This is hands-down the BEST vegan butter recipe. Ready to venture beyond the land of store-bought butters and unflavored coconut oil? Once you’ve got the ingredients, making this easy-to-make and easy-to-spread plant-based butter is a snap. Slather it up! This recipe makes one block of vegan butter.

Course Dairy

Cuisine American

Keyword dairy-free butter, homemade vegan butter, vegan butter

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 32 tablespoons

Calories 92kcal

Author Allison Rivers Samson | The Dairy Detox

Ingredients

• 1 cup unflavored coconut oil refined, not virgin
• ¾ cup sunflower or safflower oil
• ¼ cup unsweetened plain non-dairy milk
• 1 tablespoon lecithin powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt optional

Instructions

• Place a glass container in the freezer to chill while preparing the Better Butter.
• In a blender, process all ingredients together at medium speed for 30-60 seconds, until completely combined. Be careful not to over-process or the oils may separate.
• Transfer quickly to the chilled container, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Video

Notes

• Unflavored coconut oil is also called “refined coconut oil,” and is sold in a jar in most health food stores. The most common brand is Spectrum. “Virgin” will taste like coconut, which is best to use for coconut-flavored dishes.
• Lecithin is used to emulsify or combine the ingredients. Although lecithin is most commonly made from soy, sunflower lecithin is becoming more popular. Look for it in the supplement section of health food stores, or online (see link below).
• How much is a pinch? Not much! It’s approximately half of ⅛ teaspoon.
• This is a soft, spreadable butter. If you’d like something harder, decrease the sunflower or safflower oil and increase the coconut oil. You can start with ¾ cup sunflower or safflower and 1 cup coconut oil, and adjust by the tablespoon until you get your preferred texture. Just make sure that the total of both oils always equals 1 ¾ cup.

Nutrition

Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 9mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.1g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.1mg

This recipe was shared with permission from The Dairy Detox. You can find more dairy-free recipes like this in the Dairy Detox Cookbook. Photos by Zhoro Apostolovfor World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

The post Easy Vegan Butter Recipe appeared first on World of Vegan.

Making delicious vegan broth on the spur of the moment isn’t as hard as you think! Adding a seasoned broth can really spice up your meals with little or no effort. It’s a smart and handy choice for adding depth and complexity to almost any plant-based dish—making bouillon a must-have in any vegan pantry or vegetarian kitchen.

It’s time to be break into the world of bouillon, friends!

What Is Vegan Bouillon?

Simply put, vegan bouillon is a concentrated broth or seasoning typically available in paste, cube, or powder form. It can mimic the rich flavors of traditional animal-based broths, adding a savory and aromatic base for your favorite recipes.

Is bouillon vegan? The complicated answer is that some, but not all, bouillon is vegan. All vegetable bouillon is vegan-friendly, but other flavors need investigating—and that’s why this guide is here.

Why Use Vegan Bouillon?

Whether you use vegan bouillon cubes, vegan bouillon powder, or paste, this ingredient brings a world of flavor to your kitchen, enhancing the taste of your dishes with ease. Here are some of the reasons why it’s a must-have for every vegan cook:

• Versatility: Whether you’re whipping up a hearty vegetable soup, a creamy pasta sauce, or a flavorful risotto, a touch of vegetable bouillon can add just the right spark of deliciousness to your dishes.
• Convenience: Packaged in easy-to-dissolve cubes, concentrated pastes, or powders, vegetable bouillon allows you to quickly incorporate broth into your cooking, even when you’re short on time.
• Sustainability: Most pastes come in glass jars that can be recycled and cubes typically come packaged in cardboard and wrapped in foil. Also, by choosing plant-based bouillon instead of animal-based broths, you reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to a more compassionate food system.
• Flavor Variety: From classic vegetable to exotic herb and spice blends, bouillon makes it easier to experiment with different tastes and flavor combinations.
• Long Shelf Life: Bouillon typically has a long shelf life and is an excellent solution for minimizing food waste.

How To Use Vegetable Bouillon

Using vegetable bouillon is as easy as using vegan broth or stock—just mix the appropriate amount needed with water! You can also use it as a way to add flavor to your favorite dishes. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals:

• When you’re in the mood for soup and a sandwich, there’s nothing better than a bowl of Creamy Tomato Soup and a crispy vegan grilled cheese!
• Potato Lovers will fall in love with this rich and satisfying Vegan Potato Soup and Vegan Potato Leek Soup recipes!
• Chickpea Noodle Soup is like first-aid for the soul. Perfect for boosting your spirits when you’re feeling under the weather and delicious dipped with crispy flax crackers.
• Cook up a batch of enchilada pasta for dinner—it’s made with vegetable bouillon!
• Boost the flavor in your pastas, grains, beans, stir fries, and vegetable dishes by adding some bouillon!

Best Vegan Bouillon Brands

Now it’s time to share the best vegan bouillon brands on the market. This list includes tasty and cruelty-free options, perfect for both new and experienced plant-based cooks. Find your ideal addition for the most delicious kitchen creations! The following brands offer one or more vegan bouillon options:

Better Than Bouillon

Better Than Bouillon offers a fantastic range of vegan bouillon options that have quickly become a favorite among plant-based and vegetarian cooks. Their concentrated pastes dissolve easily in hot water, allowing for precise control of flavor intensity. Additionally, they come in various flavors such as Vegetable, No Chicken, and No Beef, as well as a mushroom, roasted garlic, and sauteed onion.

Born Simple Broth Concentrate

Rich and flavorful Born Simple vegan broth concentrate offers a convenient and flavorful plant-based broth solution, perfect for enhancing the taste of your dishes with ease. Choose from Chicken-Style or Beef-Style options or a mix pack.

Edward & Sons Bouillon

Classic and delicious Edward & Sons bouillon delivers a savory punch to your recipes, providing a convenient and tasty vegan option for elevating the flavors of your favorite dishes. Options include Not Chick’n, Not Beef, Garden Veggie, Yellow Curry, Hot & Sour, Savory Onion, and Not Fish.

Frontier Co-Op Bouillon

Frontier presents many tasty and versatile plant-based options, adding robust flavor to your meals with its convenient and easy-to-use vegan bouillon powder formulation. Their appealing flavors include No-Chicken, No-Beef, Vegetable, Low Sodium, and Curry.

Hella Phat Vegan

Hella Phat vegetable bouillon brings robust and flavorful options to your dishes, providing a pleasing and versatile solution for enhancing the taste of your favorite recipes. Choose from No Chick or No Beef options.

Kitchen Accomplice Concentrate

Kitchen Accomplice veggie broth concentrate enhances your meals with a convenient and versatile blend, bringing a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes effortlessly.

Knorr Bouillon Cubes

Knorr vegetable bouillon, a trusted kitchen companion, enriches your culinary creations with its savory blend, effortlessly adding depth and deliciousness to a variety of dishes.

Kroma Veggie Powder Mix

This brand’s Veggie Powder Mix transforms your meals with an inventive blend, providing a burst of natural and savory flavors that take your dishes to new heights. Includes ingredients such as chocho plant protein, miso, vegetables, and a unique spice blend.

Marigold Vegan Bouillon Cubes

This gluten-free vegan bouillon is your secret weapon in the kitchen. Marigold offers a harmonious blend of natural ingredients that imparts a rich and savory depth to your dishes, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Comes packaged as a powder or in cube form.

McKay’s Instant Broth Powder

This tasty powdered soup seasoning is your new kitchen ally! McKay’s instant broth effortlessly enriches soups and dishes with its robust and well-balanced blend. Choose from Vegan Beef, Vegan Chicken, and No MSG varieties.

Sazon Bouillon Powder

Sazon’s vegetable bouillon is a wonder in the kitchen! This veggie broth powder infuses your recipes with a vibrant medley of natural flavors. Sourced directly from Mexico, all of Sazon’s all-natural products are free of gluten, chemicals preservatives, and MSG.

Seitenbacher Vegan Broth Powder

This brand’s vegetable broth and seasoning is a kitchen staple and offers a delicious blend of natural flavors to enhance your soups and dishes. With wholesome ingredients, it brings a hearty and satisfying touch to your homemade meals. There’s nothing artificial added.

Simple Girl Dry Bouillon Base

Simple Girl dry bouillon base is a must-have in your pantry, bringing a burst of savory goodness to your meals. With clean and simple ingredients, it ensures a flavorful and guilt-free culinary experience. It’s vegan and is free of MSG and gluten.

Spice + Leaf Premuim Powdered Broth

Spice + Leaf vegan broth base enhances your cooking with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It creates a versatile and delectable foundation, effortlessly elevating the depth of flavor in your plant-based creations. Free of salt, chemicals, fillers, preservatives, and GMOs.

Vogue Vegetarian Chicken-Flavor Bouillon

Vogue Vegetarian Chicken Style Base Bouillon transforms your vegetarian and vegan recipes with its savory and versatile profile, bringing a delightful chicken-like essence to your diverse dishes. Contains no preservatives, no additives, reduced sodium, and gluten-free.

Zoup! No-Chicken Paste

Zoup’s No-Chicken Base bouillon captivates your taste buds with its distinctive blend. This brand’s bouillon broth creates a savory foundation for your recipes and infuses your dishes with a plant-powered twist.

How to Choose Vegan Bouillon

When selecting a vegan chicken bouillon or a vegan beef bouillon brand, be sure to check the ingredient list. Most brands of vegetable bouillon are accidentally vegan, but look more carefully at other flavors to make sure they include only plant-based ingredients.

Look for options that fit your dietary needs or cooking style such as organic, low-sodium, or reduced-salt options. For the healthiest option, keep your eye out for brands that have a small number of ingredients and little to no preservatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Vegan Bouillon (Easy-to-Use and Sustainable) appeared first on World of Vegan.

In every language, a rich, hearty stew topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden-brown perfection always spells comfort food. Cottage pie is a classic dish that’s withstood the test of time, matured over the years, and grown to have greater allure than ever. Every western culture has a similar casserole to its name, brimming with enough meat and vegetables in every bite to appease both hunters and gatherers throughout the ages.

Unlike a pastry-covered pie, cottage pie skips the fussy dough to make preparation and serving a breeze. No baking experience required! All you need is an appetite for a hearty, heartwarming meal.  

What Makes This The Best Recipe For Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?

• Umami: The so-called fifth taste, otherwise understood as savory flavor, contributes the distinct depth and richness that makes the overall eating experience so satisfying. Meat is naturally high in umami, but so are mushrooms, which are the secret ingredient here.
• Allergen-friendly: Everyone’s welcome to the table when this dish is on the menu! There are no common allergens in the mix, meaning it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, eggless, nut-free, soy-free, and as always, completely vegan.
• Freezer friendly: Whether you want to prep ahead or save leftovers for a rainy day, this vegan shepherd’s pie keeps like a champ. Freeze individual portions for up to 6 months and simply microwave or pop it into the oven until hot all the way through.

Key Ingredients

Russet potatoes: These spuds are high in starch which makes them mash up into a light, fluffy vegan mashed potato topping. Peel them for a perfectly smooth mash or keep the skins on for a more rustic approach

Dried mushrooms: Dried porcini are ideal here for their uniquely nutty, earthy flavor and toothsome, meaty texture. Other good options include dried shiitake mushrooms, dried oyster mushrooms, dried wood ear mushrooms, or dried morel mushrooms.

Dried herbs: No pantry is complete without a range of dried herbs at the ready. Through the dead of winter when nothing green is growing, they’ll get you through those dark days with zest and fragrance to spare. Basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme are our VIPs here.

Lentils: This complete protein creates the most convincing vegetarian cottage pie around using only whole foods. Canned and ready-to-eat, they’re very convenient anytime you want to cut out the meat.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Chewy and subtly sweet, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are a rich source of umami as well, harmonizing with the mushrooms to heighten that taste. For even greater flavor, use some of the oil for cooking, instead of plain olive oil.

Nutritional yeast: Both cheesy and buttery without a drop of dairy, nutritional yeast is essential for creating natural vegan alternatives. It can be used to enhance anything from soup to popcorn.

What’s The Difference Between Shepherd’s Pie vs Cottage Pie?

Though the terms can sometimes be used interchangeably, the difference between the two traditionally comes down to the place of origin and type of meat.

• Shepherd’s pie hails from Scotland, later gaining in popularity throughout England and Ireland. It typically calls for ground lamb, befitting of the name.

• Cottage pie came later, appearing in text around 1791 without clear heritage other than the United Kingdom at large. These casseroles were filled with ground beef instead.

While a plant-based version could be seen as either (or neither) based on these simple definitions, most vegan ground meat is compared to beef, given that lamb has a more gamey or grassy taste. Cottage pie is a better fit for conventional flavor expectations.

How To Use Dehydrated Mushrooms

Dried mushrooms are indispensable umami bombs that contain even greater flavor than their fresh counterparts. That’s because the drying process concentrates their essence, breaking down cell walls and making it more readily accessible than straightforward cooking alone.

Here’s how to rehydrate dried mushrooms:

1. Sort your mushrooms and give them a rinse. Wild mushrooms especially are likely to still carry dirt from where they were grown. Brush lightly to remove any leftover particles. Double-check that there are no other stones or twigs that might have gotten mixed up with them.
2. Soak in cold water, ideally overnight. Many recipes will quickly rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot or even boiling water to speed through the procedure. While that technically works, it fails to unlock their full potential. Dried mushrooms tend to float, so keep a plate on top of them in a large bowl to keep them all submerged. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
3. Drain the soaking water but save it! You now have incredibly flavorful mushroom broth, ideal for making soups and stews with, in addition to the toothsome mushrooms you want for the recipe at hand.

Kept in a dry, cool place, dried mushrooms are shelf-stable and can last for 1 – 3 years. Once rehydrated, the mushrooms should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge and used within 5 – 7 days.

This method works for a variety of different mushrooms including dried porcini mushrooms, dried shiitake mushrooms, dried morel mushrooms, dried oyster mushrooms.

Ideas For Cottage Pie Adaptations

Never eat the same meal twice when you apply a bit of creativity to the basic cottage pie formula! Make it your own with a few simple twists.

• Switch up the protein: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh, realistic vegan ground meat like Impossible or Beyond Meat, or a combination of all your favorites.
• Add an extra serving of vegetables: Take a hint from what’s fresh and in season or dig deep into your freezer to pull out a ready-made blend. Keep the cuts as consistent as possible so everything cooks at the same rate. When in doubt, corn and peas are always good choices to start with.
• Say cheese: Everyone loves cheese, so sprinkling a handful of your favorite shredded vegan cheese over the top is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add it within the last 10 minutes of cooking so it can get nice and melty.  
• Spice is nice: The flavor profile is very mild as written, but if you’re a heat seeker, go ahead and spike the filling with crushed red pepper flakes, Tabasco, sriracha, harissa, or your favorite hot sauce.

More Cozy Vegan Casseroles To Try

• Vegan Noodle Kugel
• Vegan Green Bean Casserole
• Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole
• Vegan Lasagna With Tofu Ricotta
• Easy Vegan Chicken Pot Pie

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Shepherd’s Pie {Cottage Pie} That’s Dairy-Free & Vegan

This vegan shepherd’s pie, also known as cottage pie, is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich and hearty—full of mushrooms and vegetables in a savory sauce topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This is the perfect meal for chilly evenings to cozy up with!

Course dinner

Cuisine English

Keyword dairy-free shepherd’s pie, gluten-free shepherd’s pie, vegan holiday recipe, vegan shephard’s pie, vegan thanksgiving recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 4

Calories 497kcal

Author Beatriz Buono-Core & Mirko Guth

Ingredients

Mashed Potato Topping Ingredients: 

• 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
• plant-based milk unsweetened and unflavored, to taste
• vegan butter to taste
• salt and pepper to taste

Cottage Pie Filling Ingredients: 

• ⅓ cup dried mushrooms porcini if you can find them, otherwise any dried mushroom will do
• 1 cube vegetable bouillon
• 1¼ cups water
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots peeled and diced
• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 8-ounce can lentils drained
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil drained and chopped
• 6 tablespoons tomato puree
• ⅓ cup nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan optional
• parsley or chives for garnish optional

Instructions

• Place the diced peeled potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 15 minutes or until soft. Drain the water and roughly mash. Add plant-based milk, vegan butter, salt, and pepper, all to taste, and continue mashing until completely smooth. Set aside.
• In a medium bowl, add the dried mushrooms, bouillon cube, and water. Let the mushrooms soak for 8 minutes, and mix to dissolve the vegetable stock.
• Preheat the oven at 430 degrees F.
• Heat a large frying pan with the olive oil on medium heat. Add the carrots, onion, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Stir and cook until lightly soft.
• Add the tomato puree to the frying pan and stir. Take your soaking mushrooms and pour the liquid into the frying pan, holding back the mushrooms. Roughly chop the mushrooms before adding them to the pan as well. Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and lentils, and simmer until thickened.
• Once the cottage pie mixture is ready, spread it evenly in a casserole dish. Top with the mashed potatoes and sprinkle generously with nutritional yeast. Cook in the oven for 10 minutes or until the surface is golden. Garnish with parsley or chives and enjoy!

Notes

Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can’t find canned lentils? Use about 1 cup of cooked lentils instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 497kcal | Carbohydrates: 81g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 89mg | Potassium: 2109mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 5420IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 5mg

Photos by J.J. Steele for World of Vegan, all rights reserved. Thanks to our recipe testers Ruth Havertz and Taylor Gillespie. 

The post Vegan Shepherd’s Pie (Cottage Pie) appeared first on World of Vegan.

If you’ve gotten into a dinner rut or are looking to make your weekly Sunday dinners more exciting, our answer is to cook more vegan roasts! You’ll love how great your kitchen smells as the various herbs and spices waft through the air, instilling feelings of comfort and coziness.

There’s also nothing quite like enjoying a perfectly tender bite of Sunday roast as a new week is about to begin. So grab your favorite bakeware, break out those aromatics, and let’s get to work!

Make Your Own Vegetarian Holiday Roast

Below you’ll find a round-up of the very best vegan roast recipes from around the web. All of the following recipes are:

• vegan
• vegetarian
• plant-based
• dairy-free
• cholesterol-free
• meat-free

We also included options that are soy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free for allergen-friendly roasts.

Plant-Based Roast Base Ingredients

What goes into these succulent, meatless masterpieces? Vegan roasts boast a palette of wholesome ingredients, including seitan (wheat gluten), mushrooms, nuts, tofu, beans or lentils, grains, and an assortment of vegetables. Elevating these natural elements are a harmonious blend of aromatic spices and herbs, transforming these simple ingredients into a culinary symphony that will redefine your perception of plant-based dining. Dive into the recipes and witness the magical metamorphosis of whole foods into your next vegan dinner sensation.

Best Vegetarian Roast Recipes (100% Vegan)

The Perfect Vegan Wellington

A beautiful and delicious recipe by Audrey Dunham, this vegan mushroom Wellington is savory, flaky, and completely worth the effort. It’s actually surprisingly easy! It’s made with vegan puff pastry (which you can easily fond from brands like Pepperidge Farm) and decorated with a gorgeous braid. This is any mushroom lover’s dream roast.

Vegan Turkey Roast

A delicious vegan turkey for Thanksgiving, this recipe will have you feeling like it’s the holidays all the time! Made using simple ingredients such as tofu and vital wheat gluten, this recipe is actually quite easy to put together. But it is recommended that you prepare the seitan a day in advance if possible for optimal texture and flavor.

Veggie Meatloaf

If you’re dining with meatloaf lovers, this is a must! It’s a health-ified version of a classic meatloaf made with lentils, walnuts, and mushrooms. Crazy? It may sound nuts (and it is, literally, made with nuts!) but this popular recipe has stood the test of time. Dozens of iterations of this veggie meatloaf have spread across the internet, but this is our all-time fave by Desiree Neilsen.

Vegan Holiday Roast

This amazing meatless roast by Vegan Huggs is both beautiful and delicious and will make a beautiful centerpiece to any meal! Using a seitan base and stuffed with a delicious sourdough bread stuffing, this recipe is actually relatively easy to put together. You just need to wait patiently for a few hours as it finishes up in the oven.

Seed & Carrot Roast Loaf

Great for those who are gluten-free or just love seeds and veggies! This loaf by Kind Earth is one of the easiest vegetarian roasts you could ever make, Once the carrots are boiled and the seeds are ground, it only takes a few minutes to combine everything together. Stick it in the oven for about 45 minutes, and you’re golden!

Vegan Ham Roast

This super flavorful vegan ham recipe by Shane & Simple is a must-try for you if you like your vegan roasts with a tinge of sweetness. With only 15 minutes of prep time and 75 minutes cook time in the Instant Pot, you’ll love how quickly this amazing dish comes to life!

Festive Butternut Squash Roast

Gluten-free, vegan, and full of fall flavor! This butternut squash roast by The Veg Space is a perfect vegetarian roast recipe for anyone who’s sensitive to gluten or just prefers more veggies in their life. Stuffed with a lentil filling, this squash roast has everything you need for a completely filling and tasty meal.

Cashew Nut Roast

Made with a combination of cashews, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, this yummy nut loaf from Vegan Punks is perfect for those who love the combination of crunchy nuts with salty breadcrumbs. Drizzle on some gravy and you’ll be all set for a Sunday roast dinner.

Gluten-Free Veggie Roast

Made from the mighty celeriac vegetable, this oil-free and gluten-free dish from Seven Roses is one of the most simple vegetable roasts you could ever make. Add as many fixings as you’d like to round out this nutritious and budget-friendly meal!

Vegetarian Lentil Loaf

Nut-free, gluten-free, soy-free and totally meatless, this vegan lentil loaf from Strength & Sunshine is made with the power of lentils and cauliflower. Covered in a red ketchup sauce, this nostalgia-inducing recipe only takes about 45 minutes to make and is filled with veggies and loaded with protein.

Vegan Mushroom Meatloaf with Sticky Asian Glaze

Mushroom lovers, rejoice! This tasty vegetarian loaf recipe from Sunnyside Hanne calls for mushrooms, carrots, chickpeas, and more before being finished off with a deliciously tangy Asian glaze. Great alongside potatoes and broccoli or some rice and smashed cucumbers!

Whole Roasted Cauliflower

What’s round and comes out of the ground but also tastes great on a plate? This delicious whole roasted cauliflower from Nutriplanet! It’s perfect for anyone who wants to keep their Sunday roast super simple. Gluten-free, soy-free, and totally tasty!

Juicy Vegan Roast Beef

This delicious vegan loaf recipe from My Plantiful Cooking makes a hearty holiday dinner or tasty meat-free treat throughout the week. With ingredients such as vital wheat gluten, kidney beans, and liquid smoke, this vegan roast beef comes together in just over an hour. It will keep 3-4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Brown Sugar Glazed Tofu

From Plant Based RD comes a ridiculously easy gluten-free roast recipe. You’ll never believe it uses tofu as the main ingredient! All you need to do is make sure it’s pressed and marinate it overnight before popping it in the oven the next day!

Holiday Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash

Elevate your holiday feast with the rich and savory allure of stuffed acorn squash—a delightful vegetarian alternative that effortlessly steals the spotlight from the traditional roast. Bursting with autumnal flavors, these golden-hued gourds are generously filled with a delectable medley of grains, nuts, and seasonal herbs, creating a hearty and satisfying centerpiece for your festive table. The velvety texture of the acorn squash perfectly complements the earthy stuffing, offering a symphony of tastes and textures that will captivate both vegetarians and meat enthusiasts alike.

Tempeh Pot Roast

Savory, comforting, and full of plant-based protein. This tempeh pot roast by From My Bowl is the answer to your easy meal dreams. With only about 15 minutes of prep time, most of the work is done in the slow cooker with this vegan roast recipe!

What to Do With Your Leftover Vegetarian Roast?

If you’ve got leftovers, you’ve got tot try this epic air fryer sandwich make with veggie roast leftovers. We designed this recipe as a creative way to use Thanksgiving turkey leftovers. But you can apply it to all types of vegetarian roasts! It’s simply divine.

Don’t Want to Cook Your Own Vegetarian Roast? Try These Store-Bought Options!

Whether you’re short on thyme or time, there are many options for delicious vegetarian roast dinners available both online and at the supermarket. From Field Roast to Tofurky, here are some of the most popular meatless roasts out there:

• Field Roast Celebration Roast
• Gardein Holiday Roast
• Tofurky Ham Roast
• Vegetarian Plus Turkey Roast 

Explore our vegan turkey guide for even more options. If you’re having a large gathering, why not have a taste test with as many vegan roasts as you can? That way you’ll get a beautiful array of different textures, colors, and flavors! And once your vegetarian roast dinner is done, serve it alongside some delicious mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or other desired vegan sides.

During the holidays, we come across foods that are uncommon or unfamiliar at other times of the year (especially at parties). If you aren’t sure what fois gras is, make sure to look into it before you consider taking a bite.

The post Best Vegetarian Roast Recipes appeared first on World of Vegan.

Whether you’re a passionate vegan or searching for the perfect gift for a vegan friend or loved one, you’ll be delighted to discover the world of luxury vegan gift ideas. From exquisite fashion accessories to cruelty-free cosmetics and gourmet treats, this article explores a range of lavish options for those who appreciate the finer things in life while staying true to their ethical values.

Sustainable Leather-Free Vegan Watch

Timepieces can be both elegant and cruelty-free. Consider gifting a stylish vegan watch from companies like Votch, Hurtig Lane, or Corkor. These brands offer exquisite watches made from eco-friendly materials such as Piñatex (pineapple leather) or cork, combining fashion and sustainability in one stunning accessory.

Designer Vegan Handbag

For the fashion-forward vegan in your life, consider gifting a luxurious vegan handbag from renowned brands like Stella McCartney, Matt & Nat, or JW PEI. These designers have mastered the art of creating high-quality, stylish handbags without using any animal-derived materials. From classic to contemporary styles, there’s a vegan handbag to match every taste, and dozens of vegan handbag brands to explore.

A Subscription to A Vegan Subscription Box

This is the gift that keeps on giving. By gifting a 3-month, 6-month, or one-year subscription to one of the many vegan subscription boxes out there (such as the Vegan Cuts Snack Box or Vegan Beauty Box), you’re giving a surprise dose of happiness every single month. Explore our guide to vegan subscription boxes to help you choose!

Handcrafted Pottery

Elevate your gifting game with exquisite, handcrafted vegan pottery pieces. Artisans around the world create unique ceramic works of art that are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. These pieces add a touch of rustic elegance to any home, making them the perfect gift for those who appreciate the beauty of sustainable craftsmanship.

Professional-Quality Chef’s Knife

For the culinary connoisseur in your life, a high-quality chef’s knife is an essential luxury. Precision, balance, and durability are the hallmarks of these kitchen tools, ensuring that every culinary creation is a masterpiece. Whether you’re shopping for a home chef or a professional, a chef’s knife is a gift that will be cherished for years to come.

An Almond Cow Plant Milk Maker

What’s an Almond Cow? Only the hottest new kitchen appliance that makes it crazy-easy to make your own nut milk from scratch in moments! This is a perfect gift for a sustainability-advocate or anyone who wants to save money and reduce packaging waste. They can say farewell to single-use milk cartons forever!

A High-Speed Blender

A brand-new high-speed blender (such as a Vitamix) wrapped up with a bow sits high on this list. It’s the gift that can be used almost every day for years to come. A high-speed blender is a godsend, especially for vegans who dream of making the creamiest cashew cheese sauce and most perfectly smooth green smoothies. The price tag keeps many from investing in this themselves, but if you really want to make a friend or loved one squeal, this will do it! Unless they already have one, that is. In that case, read on, dear friend.

A Beautiful Vegan Outerwear Piece

One of the beauties of choosing a cruelty-free lifestyle is that suddenly clothing, shoes, and jackets become a lot more affordable. With leather and wool off the table, shopping might typically take place at stores like Target because they use mostly man-made materials.

But guess what? High-end vegan pieces are out there, and the relative rarity makes them that much more special! Several companies exist that make luxury vegan outerwear that any gal or guy would cherish.

Ethical Jewelry

If you’re going to get your loved one a piece of jewelry, you’ll get infinite bonus points for going the extra mile and getting it from a conscious retailer. I’m talkin’ about a vegan jeweler (yes, they exist!). A great vegan jewelry shop option is Christy Robinson Design (stamped vegan jewelry) and there are lots of makers on Etsy.

Cruelty-Free Beauty Products

Pamper your loved one with a selection of vegan beauty products that are not only cruelty-free but also luxurious. Brands like Fenty Beauty, Tarte Cosmetics, and Too Faced offer a wide range of vegan makeup and skincare items. From silky foundations to shimmering eyeshadows, these products are sure to make any beauty enthusiast smile.

Vegan-Friendly Fragrances

A luxurious scent can make a memorable gift. Many high-end perfume brands have embraced veganism by offering fragrances that exclude animal-derived ingredients and animal testing. Brands that make exclusively vegan perfume are also growing and offer a dazzling array of perfumes that come in beautifully designed bottles. If you want to make the gift extra-special, make your own vegan perfume!

Artisanal Vegan Chocolates

Indulge your loved ones’ taste buds with gourmet vegan chocolates from artisanal chocolatiers. Brands like Hu Chocolate, Raaka Chocolate, and Alter Eco offer a variety of delectable options, from dark chocolate bars to truffles. These vegan chocolates are crafted with care, making them the perfect gift for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Vegan-Friendly Wine and Champagne

Toast to special occasions with vegan-friendly wines and champagnes. Many wineries now produce wine without using animal-derived fining agents, making it easier than ever to find a bottle of exquisite vegan wine or bubbly. Brands like Frey Vineyards and Domaine Carneros offer a wide selection of vegan options that are perfect for celebrations.

A Vegan Meal Delivery or Meal Kit Service

We could all use more delicious home cooked meals with less effort, right? Today there are tons of vegan meal delivery services that could be a wonderful treat for someone special. Some of the services send frozen meals to your doorstep that you can simply heat and eat, while others send recipes with all the pre-measured ingredients so you can follow the instructions and make a dish at home from scratch.

The first is a great option for the busy mama who would give anything for a little more time in life, and the latter is great for the novice chef who is eager to practice home cooking (vegan-style).

A Fun Trip to a Vegan-Friendly Destination (Like Portland)

One of the best gifts one can give is an experience, and travel to a vegan-friendly city is bound to be an amazing one. The memories you’ll share on a trip to a vegan metropolis like Portland, Los Angeles, New York City or Berlin will be unforgettable. Make it extra-special by making reservations at a fancy vegan restaurant and planning a surprise visit to a local animal sanctuary!

If you’re unable to plan the trip yourself, you can give your loved on a certificate to airbnb or their favorite airline so they can book it themselves.

The Ultimate Vegan Getaway

How about a blissful vegan getaway? You can book a stay at an all-vegan resort such as The Stanford Inn By The Sea (in Northern California). Colleen Patrick-Goudreau also hosts annual vegan trips for the most adventurous among us. Others vegan retreats to look out for include: VegNews Vacations and Holistic Holiday at Sea.

A Generous Gift Certificate

A gift card makes a great gift option when you want to splurge on someone special, but don’t know exactly what they like. You can get a gift card to a vegan restaurant, a spa, or one of their favorite shops. Who doesn’t a shopping spree?

Luxury vegan gift options are on the rise, catering to those who want to enjoy the finer things in life while upholding their ethical principles. From designer handbags to sustainable watches, cruelty-free beauty products to artisanal chocolates, there’s a luxurious vegan gift for everyone. By choosing these thoughtful presents, you not only show your appreciation for your loved ones but also support the growing movement toward a more compassionate and sustainable world. So, go ahead and indulge in luxury while staying true to your vegan values – it’s a win-win for all!

The post 16 Luxury Vegan Gift Ideas That Any Herbivore Will Love appeared first on World of Vegan.

Sweet potatoes are one of the healthiest foods on the planet. They’re packed with Vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, and they’re a wonderful food to incorporate into your diet whenever possible.

So…how about swapping out that boring white bread you toast up in the morning with some colorful sweet potato toast? It’s healthy, delicious, and it’s even photogenic (for all you Instagram lovers)!

Without further ado, I’m excited to share this easy vegan breakfast recipe from The Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plan. This has become a staple in our homes, and I hope you love it as much as we do! 

Sweet Potato Benefits

Sweet potatoes are a deliciously nutritious food that offer a variety of health benefits while never lacking in flavor. Here are a few awesome advantages of the almighty sweet potato:

• Rich in Vitamins – Sweet potatoes are heavily packed with vitamin A (more than 700% of the recommended daily value!), vitamin B6, manganese, potassium, copper, niacin, and pantothenic acid. Having sweet potato toast for breakfast will give you a serious morning boost!
• Full of Fiber – Sweet potatoes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which makes them excellent in aiding in gut health and helps keep you fuller for longer.
• Awesome Antioxidants – Berries aren’t the only food that have a high antioxidant content! Sweet potatoes contain various antioxidants, including anthocyanins (specifically found in purple sweet potatoes), which have been found to slow the growth of various types of cancers.

Sweet Potato Varieties

Sweet potatoes come in several different varieties and depending on where you live, you may come across more than a few different kinds!

While jewel sweet potatoes are some of the most common for roasting and traditional baking, other types such as purple and creamsicle sweet potatoes offer a nice variance in color and flavor! If you do go with a purple sweet potato, be sure to check on the baking recommendations since they’re best baked at a low temperature due to their low moisture content.

How To Cut Sweet Potatoes

Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and a rustic touch. If peeling, use a vegetable peeler or a knife. Trim off both ends of the sweet potato for a clean start.

Slice the sweet potato in half lengthwise, then continue lengthwise cuts into planks that are about 1/4 inch thick. Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.

Alternatively, you can slice it into rounds, just keep in mind each piece will be smaller and hold less toppings.

When placing the sweet potato slices on a baking sheet make sure they’re in a single layer and aren’t overcrowded to allow proper cooking.

Once toasted, add your favorite toppings! Whether it’s avocado, nut butter, or savory spreads, sweet potato toast is a versatile canvas for a variety of flavors.

Topping Ideas

Nut Butter Goodness – Peanut butter is a classic choice for sweet potato toast but cashew and pistachio butter would also make fantastic options. If you’re sensitive to nuts, go for some warm tahini mixed with maple syrup instead!

Yay for Yogurt – If you want to get some probiotics into your morning routine, smother some delicious non-dairy yogurt onto your sweet potato toast! Also amazing with a little maple syrup and sliced fruit.

Avocados All the Time – If you’re feeling more savory than sweet, why not go for some sliced avocado and a little bit of pepper or nutritional yeast. 

Butter and Salt – if you’re craving traditional buttered toast, grab your favorite dairy-free butter (or make your own vegan butter!) and spread it on the hot toasted sweet potato with a sprinkle of salt. 

Mashed Banana – For a truly zero-waste breakfast option, mash a banana over the sweet potato and enjoy! Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra dimension and flavor

Sweet Potato Toast Storage

With this recipe, we’d recommend only making what you plan to eat but if you do find yourself with leftovers, we’d advise storing the cooked sweet potato in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-5 days separate from any toppings you may plan to add.

Serving Suggestions

Although we think sweet potato toast is perfectly acceptable to serve on its own, it’s also a great additional to a full blown brunch! Serve it with vegan French toast drizzled with maple syrup or a stack of blueberry vegan pancakes!

It’s also great serve served with a creamy berry polenta for something extra filling or this PB&J chia pudding parfait for something lighter!

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Easy Sweet Potato Toast

Are you ready to meet your new favorite easy breakfast recipe? This sweet potato toast is simple to make; plus, it's packed with far more nutrients than toast!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword baked sweet potato, gluten-free toast, sweet potato toast

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 1 serving

Calories 146kcal

Author Michelle Cehn and Toni Okamoto

Ingredients

• ½ large sweet potato or yam
• peanut butter
• jelly
• banana sliced

Instructions

• Preheat oven (or toaster oven) to 400°F.
• Slice the sweet potato in half lengthwise, and then thinly slice using a sharp knife into thin pieces. Note: If the pieces are too thick, they will take significantly longer to cook.
• Arrange slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes (until soft).
• Top with peanut butter, jelly, sliced bananas and enjoy!

Notes

• Have fun with this recipe and mix it up with different toppings!

Nutrition

Calories: 146kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 573mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 24118IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 1mg

Sweet potato toast recipe from the Plant-Based on a Budget Meal Plan (Week 3). Photos by Michelle Cehn.

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