To make the cooking experience enjoyable, it’s important to stock your kitchen with the right equipment that will help you bring delicious plant-powered dishes to life. Here are thirteen of the best vegan kitchen tools and appliances that I’ve come to love, and can’t imagine living without. Cheers!

1. Excellent Chef’s Knife

Did you know dull knives are actually the cause of most kitchen knife accidents? The sharper the knife, the less likely it is to go somewhere you don’t want it to—like into your finger.

I’ve made this mistake for years. I bought one of those big knife sets thinking that the more knives, the better! But in reality, more knives = more problems.

For 98% of the chopping, mincing, and dicing you do, all you need is one great chef’s knife that can last you a lifetime (assuming you care for it and sharpen it regularly). One well cared for chef’s knife and a serrated bread knife and you’re golden. 

2. Quality Cutting Board

Too often I see friends pull out flimsy plastic cutting boards or boards that are far too small for the job at hand. Investing in a large, quality cutting board will pay off every time you’re cooking in the kitchen—which I hope will be almost every day! 

3. Nut Milk Bag 

Let me start by saying that I don’t always make my own plant milk. But when I do, this bag is a godsend! I use it to make almond or cashew milk. Or if you want to start drinking daily celery juice and really don’t feel like washing your juicer every morning (or just don’t have one) this works great! Blend the stalks with some water and then strain it with the bag. Voila! Fresh celery juice.

4. High-Powered Blender

Okay, if you have a standard blender that will do. But the power of a high-powered blender like a Vitamix or a Blendtec cannot be understated. They work faster and better, working wonders even on tough ingredients like nuts and thick sauces. They’re great for smoothies, homemade nut milk, vegan cheese sauces, salad dressings, creamy soups, and beyond.

I have personally used both a Blendtec and Vitamix and significantly prefer Vitamix. The Vitamix comes with a tamper—a large wand that you can use to help get things moving. This is especially helpful when blending very thick foods like frozen bananas (to make banana soft serve). Look for certified refurbished models to save some moolah!

5. Food Processor

I use my food processor to make thick dips like hummus and spinach artichoke dip (I use the incredible recipe from my favorite vegan cookbook: Chloe’s Kitchen). I also use it to make banana soft serve without adding any milk, and it does a better job than my Blendtec blender.

Plus, it comes with an attachment that can shred and slice veggies in moments ,which is super fun, and I use to create my own DIY salad bar. Note: There are some super expensive food processors out there, but I got a cheap-y model and it’s been working great for me for years. No need to get too fancy here. 

6. Instant Pot Pressure Cooker

Say bye-bye to your slow cooker and rice cooker. There’s really no need for them when you have a pressure cooker—which can do essentially the same thing but way, way faster!

I wrote an entire article gushing about why everyone needs a pressure cooker. I use mine every week to make staples like rice, beans, lentils, soups, stews, and beyond. It has become one of my most essential vegan kitchen appliances!

7. Wide-Mouth Mason Jars

My friend Allison introduced me to the wonders of wide-mouth mason jars. I bought a 12-pack years ago and I’m about to go buy more because I use them for everything now! I buy most of my pantry ingredients from bulk bins these days because it’s way cheaper and also reduces plastic waste, and I store the items in these mason jars. They also work great for storing homemade nut milk, leftover soup, and beyond. The wide-mouth element is important because you can fit your hand in there so they’re easy to clean. 

8. Silicone Baking Mats

Silicone baking mats are ingenious. They enable you to roast veggies without oil and bake cookies (and whatever else) without sticking and creating a big mess to clean off your pans. I got a pair of these baking mats 4+ years ago and they’re still going strong today.  

9. Non-Stick Sauté Pan

I just recently learned what a sauté pan is, and already feel like I can’t live without it. Saute pans have tall straight sides that prevent spilling, and it’s great for making tofu scramble, sautéeing veggies, making fully loaded pasta sauce. and beyond. 

10. Great Vegan Cookbooks

Ahhh, vegan cookbooks. The source of much of my cooking inspiration. There are thousands out there to choose from today, and more coming to life every month, but here are a few of my favorites.

I have to give a special holler to my cookbook—The Friendly Vegan Cookbook—which I wrote with gifting in mind! This is the perfect book for anyone looking to dip their toes into some vegan meals, and a great addition to any vegan’s bookshelf. 

11. Capresso Milk Frother

If you’re a coffee drinker, step up your morning coffee game with a milk frother. This simple little tool heats up and froths plant milk so you can transform your bland coffee into a luxurious latte experience. The original WestSoy soymilk froths up the best, I’ve found. Move over, Starbucks!

12. Trusty Waffle Iron

Because…waffles! What life is complete without an occasional waffle weekend? I even have a recipe video featuring my favorite waffles from The Joy of Vegan Baking, one of the cookbooks I recommend!

13. Convenient Composter

If you’re at all interested in composting, check out the Lomi Electric Kitchen Composter. It’s an amazing addition to your appliance collection if you live in the city without access to a garden or composting pick-up service. Super cool and really does a great job!

More Handy Kitchen Information to Know

• How to spring clean your vegan pantry
• What to put on your vegan grocery list
• Easy kitchen conversions like how many ounces in a quart or grams in a pound

This article is not sponsored and does include affiliate links when available. Shopping through these links supports World of Vegan.

The post 13 Vegan Kitchen Tools You Can’t Live Without appeared first on World of Vegan.

Imagine two slices of your favorite crusty bread (or use a squishy white bread if you wish, no judgement!) air-fried until golden brown and crispy and then filled with a scoop of each of the most savory and scrumptious dishes from your Thanksgiving feast. To finish it off, you can top it with a generous spoonful of warm and peppery plant-based gravy. Are you drooling yet?

If it’s not quite Thanksgiving yet, do yourself a favor and bookmark this page (or better yet, share it on social media!) so that you will have it for future use. You’ll be glad to have it on hand the day after the enticing event. Also, don’t forget to check out our full vegan Thanksgiving guide for more ideas and recipes!

Are you ready to make the most out of your luscious leftovers? Let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Is So Awesome

On the whole, sandwiches are really versatile and are perfect for personalization. We have dozens of reasons why this recipe is a must-make, but read below and judge for yourself. (We bet you’ll agree!)

• Quick and easy
• Great way to use up leftovers before they spoil (Yay, less food waste!)
• Super tasty and fun to make
• Perfect for meal prepping or on-the-go lunches
• Dairy-free (and also nut-free and soy-free, depending on which ingredients you use)

Tips for Serving Up Your Savory Vegan Thanksgiving Sandwich

Because this meal is such a mishmash of mouthwatering ingredients, the best approach for serving it is simplicity. That way, you can easily appreciate the individual elements as you bite into them without confusing your plant-based palette. Which of the vegan sandwich ideas below tempt you the most?

• Opt for Open-Faced – Grab your fork and make the choice to have a vegan open sandwich for a change. Instead of a single sandwich, you can top each slice with as many toppings as you wish, toast, and then slather with gravy. So decadent and delicious!
• Pile on the Pie – Thanksgiving dishes never seem complete without a slice of apple, pumpkin, pecan, or chocolate pie. Serve your succulent sandwich alongside a sweet slice of warm and wonderful pie. Heaven!
• Supplement With Salad – We know, we know…this is not the most exciting side, but it would be the most filling and nutrient dense. If you’re worried about overdoing it with leftovers, then adding a heavy dose of fiber from the salad greens will help to balance out the rest. Try this out with tahini dressing—it’s incredible!

How To Make This Vegan Air Fryer Sandwich

If we’re being totally honest here, you can pretty much make this sandwich by slapping everything you like between two pieces of bread. But, (hear us out) we feel that the arrangement of the yummy Thanksgiving leftovers makes a big difference in the enjoyment of this vegan sandwich. Trust us just this once and you’ll be so happy you did!

1. Gather all Thanksgiving leftovers and two slices of bread.
2. Preheat the air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes (or turn on your oven/heat up the skillet).
3. Spread the cranberry sauce on one side of the bread, add the mashed potatoes (and/or stuffing), and smoosh it down. Sprinkle with corn and peas. Add the slices of vegan deli turkey, plant-based meat, or lentil loaf. Finally, spread the gravy onto the other slice of bread and place it on top (with gravy on the inside). Season with salt and pepper. Spray the top of the bread with a little bit of oil.
4. Place the sandwich in the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes at 350 degrees. Turn, spray the other side with oil, and cook for another 3 minutes.
5. Slice diagonally or vertically (let us know which one you like better in the comments!) and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this a vegan gluten-free Thanksgiving sandwich?

Great question! Consider three things: the bread, the stuffing, and the vegan meat. If you’re able to use a vegan, gluten free bread and stuffing—yay! Many vegan Thanksgiving roasts are made with vital wheat gluten, so try to find a substitute by choosing a slice of lentil (or bean) loaf, gluten-free vegan turkey slices, or even marinated slices of tofu or tempeh flavored with parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, and black pepper. You can easily make a vegan tofu cutlet to put into the sandwich.

I don’t have an air fryer. Can I still make this air fryer sandwich recipe?

Absolutely! This vegan sandwich can easily be heated up in the microwave for 1-2 minutes (warm, but soft), in the oven at same temperature for 10-15 minutes (or until desired crispiness), or on the stovetop using a non-stick skillet. Bring heat to medium high and fry on one side for approximately 4 minutes and then 2-4 minutes on the other. Keep a careful eye on it while cooking because it really does depend on your skillet and the heat from your stovetop.

Adding oil is not an option for me. How can I adapt this vegan thanksgiving turkey recipe?

No worries at all. You can completely eliminate the spray oil if you wish. The sandwich will still toast up and taste amazing, though it might not have the same crispiness or golden color. 

Equipment You’ll Need 

There’s no need to stress about the kitchen equipment you’ll need for this recipe. No matter which method you use (air fryer, microwave, skillet, or toaster), we can promise that it will be the best vegan sandwich you’ve ever made.

• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Air Fryer
• Sharp Knife
• Spatula

If you try this vegetarian sandwich recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

Simple Storage

Because this recipe is all about the leftovers, you can keep making this vegan turkey sandwich fresh any time you have the urge. If you’re planning on making the sandwich to eat later, make sure to wrap it up well in either a plant-based wax paper, recycled aluminum foil, or covered container. (Adding a paper napkin around your sandwich does help a little to absorb excess moisture.) It’s best if you heat it up right before eating, but if you don’t mind your sandwich a little soggy, then you can air fry it before storing.

You can technically freeze this meal, but it’s not recommended. If you’ll never be able to get through all of your Thanksgiving leftovers in time, just freeze each food separately and then defrost before making into a sandwich. Individual items should last 2-3 months in the freezer, if stored correctly.

More Tantalizing Thanksgiving Recipes to Try

• Glazed Seitan Turkey Roast
• Sweet Potato Pie
• Garlic and Kale Potato Cakes
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce
• Quick and Easy Mushroom-Free Gravy
• Sweet Spiced Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
• Simple Roasted Delicata Squash (with Air Fryer option)
• Vegan Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins
• Herbed Air Fryer Kabocha Squash
• Sweet Squash Bisque
• Garlic Green Beans and Cranberries

Also, if you’re searching for more sandwich ideas for a party or small gathering, check out our Vegan Tea Sandwiches and Tea Party Tips guide!

Print

Ultimate Air Fryer Sandwich With Thanksgiving Leftovers

This ultimate air fryer sandwich with Thanksgiving leftovers is possibly the messiest and most mouthwatering air fryer sandwich you’ll have all year! There’s no end to the luscious leftovers that you can add to your vegan Thanksgiving sandwich. Say goodbye to food waste and say hello to quick and easy lunches all week long. Warm, savory, and absolutely delicious!

Course Lunch or Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword air-fried sandwich, thanksgiving leftovers recipe, vegan holiday recipe, vegan sandwich, vegan thanksgiving recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 1 large sandwich

Calories 267kcal

Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 2 slices bread your choice
• 1 tablespoon cranberry sauce
• ¼ cup mashed potatoes and/or bread stuffing
• 1 sprinkling corn and peas optional
• 1 tablespoon vegan gravy
• a few vegan turkey deli slices or a thick slice of veggie roast or lentil loaf
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper or to taste
• Oil spray

Instructions

• Place all of your Thanksgiving leftovers on the kitchen counter and place the slices of bread on a plate.
• Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F for 5 minutes.
• While the air fryer is heating up, assemble the sandwich. Spread the cranberry sauce evenly on one slice of bread, add the potatoes (and/or stuffing), and smoosh it down a bit. Top with corn and peas, if using. Add the slices of vegan deli turkey, plant-based meat, or lentil loaf on next. Finally, spread the gravy onto the other slice of bread and place it on top (with gravy on the inside). Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
• At this time, you can include anything else that you like—just make sure that you don’t make the finished sandwich too big so that it will be difficult to turn halfway through cooking.
• Carefully place the sandwich into the air fryer basket.
• Spray the outside of the top slice of bread with a little bit of oil.
• Cook for 5 minutes at 350 degrees until the outside looks crisp and golden and then gently flip the sandwich over, use a little more spray oil on the other slice of bread, and cook for another 3 minutes. Check often once you flip the sandwich over so that it doesn’t burn. Once done, use a spatula to remove the sandwich. Slice in half or diagonally and enjoy immediately!

Notes

• Other Cooking Methods – This sandwich can easily be heated up in the microwave for 1-2 minutes (warm, but soft), in the oven at same temperature for 10-15 minutes (or until desired crispiness), or on the stovetop using a non-stick skillet. Bring heat to medium high and fry on one side for approximately 4 minutes and then 2-4 minutes on the other. Keep a careful eye on it while cooking because it really does depend on your skillet and the heat from your stovetop.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free, vegan bread and also choose a vegetable, soy, or bean-based loaf (such as lentil, chickpea, etc) instead of the vegan roasts, which are often made solely of wheat gluten.

Nutrition

Calories: 267kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 1668mg | Potassium: 123mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 167IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 3mg

This air fryer sandwich recipe made with vegan Thanksgiving leftovers toasted was created and written by Gina House for World of Vegan. Vegan food photography by JJ Steele. Edited by Amanda Meth.

The post Ultimate Air Fryer Sandwich (Made With Thanksgiving Leftovers) appeared first on World of Vegan.

No special equipment or ingredients necessary. All you need is a dear little delicata squash, a knife, an oven, and a little bit of ordinary spice. Steam, slice, season, and roast—that’s the way we like it most!

So scoop up that sassy squash and let’s get started!

Why You Need To Make This Recipe

If you’ve been suspicious of squash in the past, then this is the recipe for you. We’re pretty positive that this scrumptious delicata squash will win you over. And, if you’re still not quite satisfied, here are even more reasons why you should make this uncomplicated roasted recipe.

• Easy to cut and simple to make
• Delicious and highly satisfying
• Nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals, while also low in calories
• Great way to use up extra squash from the garden or local farmer’s market
• Gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and dairy-free

Tips for Serving Up Your Simple Roasted Squash

While this vegan roasted squash recipe is meant to be simple and stress-free, we also wanted to inspire you with other ideas for baking and serving. Once you feel comfortable cooking with these gorgeous little gourds, you can come up with your own culinary creations.

• So Much Squash, So Little Time – You can use other types of squash for this recipe. Kabocha, acorn, and butternut all work well in this recipe. Steaming time may vary with squashes that are more dense than the delicata, so remember to microwave in 1 minute extra intervals if 4 minutes is not enough and your squash is still very hard.
• Dare To Make a Double Batch – You may find that you (or your family) will gobble up this single squash in one sitting. In that case, microwave as many squash as you wish, cool, prepare, and cut them all before adding to the baking sheets. Each single squash uses approximately one entire baking sheet so, if you have extra sheets, make as much squash as you wish.
• Let’s Get Saucy – Make a terrific tahini sauce to accompany your roasted squash. Add 2 tablespoons of tahini to a small bowl and add ½-1 tablespoon of warm water. Use a fork or whisk to mix well. Drizzle over your squash or add to a small bowl for dipping.
• Spice It Up – When adding your winter squash to the oven, consider sprinkling in a few spices to make it extra special. Flavors that complement this cozy side include: thyme, cumin, chili, smoked paprika, sage, ginger, and cinnamon. Yum!
• No Pain, More Grain – Roasted squash partners perfectly with creamy pastas and whole grains. Serve alongside plant-based macaroni and cheese, vegan risotto, quirky quinoa, or basic brown rice. Lovely, warm, and super filling.

How To Make Simple Roasted Delicata Squash

No need to feel intimidated by baking this lovely little squash. Just take it step by step and you’ll be amazed at how simple it really is. If you’re nervous because you’ve never liked squash in the past, we think you’ll be more than pleasantly surprised by the incredible flavor and texture of this recipe.

1. Preheat the oven. Wash and dry the squash. Cut off the ends.
2. Steam the squash in the microwave for 4 minutes. Cool before cutting.
3. Make ½” slices and place on a parchment lined baking sheet.
4. Oil, season, and bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
5. Add tahini sauce, if desired, and enjoy!

Star Ingredient: The Dashing Delicata!

Delicata is such a special style of winter squash. Besides it’s beautiful little bumps and luminous lemon-lime color, it’s got a delicate brown sugar flavor and creamy texture. We also love it because:

• High in fiber
• Good source of vitamins A and C, lutein, potassium, and folate
• Only 80 calories per cup
• Smaller and easier to cut than other squashes
• Low in carbs (if that is something you need to reduce)

What Can I Do With the Seeds? (Scoot Over, Roasted Pumpkin Seeds!)

Can you believe that you can roast delicata squash seeds just like you do with pumpkin seeds? Follow the directions for our roasted pumpkin seeds recipe and just reduce the cooking time to 8-10 minutes, depending on your oven. You’ll know that they’re done when you hear them start to pop and crackle, just like popcorn popping. You’ll love how crisp and delicious they are!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re a complete beginner at baking squash, we’re here for you! It can feel intimidating to cut and cook something unfamiliar, but it’s totally worth it. Here are answers to some common questions, in case you had the same concerns.

I can’t find a delicata squash! Will a different type of squash work in this recipe?

You can use other types of squash for this recipe. Kabocha squash, acorn squash, and butternut quash all work well in this recipe. Steaming time may vary if the squash is more dense than the delicata squash, so microwave in 1 minute extra intervals if 4 minutes is not enough and your squash is still very hard.

Can I air fry delicata squash?

Definitely! Here’s how to do make easy air fryer delicata squash: while you cut the squash into slices, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees for 5 minutes. Lay your squash slices out on a plate or cutting board. Brush with oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Add the slices in a single layer to the basket and air fry at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices over halfway and being careful to check that they are crisp (but not burnt) on the outside. Voila! Air fryer delicata squash!

What if I don’t have a microwave? Can I still make this recipe?

Yes, you can. Another option is to quickly steam the delicata squash in a pot with a steaming rack, in the Instant Pot, or simply leave out the steaming all together. Because the skin of this squash isn’t as thick as others, you can choose not to steam and just roast the slices for a little longer, if needed.

I try to avoid added fat in my diet. Do I need to use the oil when baking the squash?

No worries. You can completely eliminate the oil if you wish or just give the bare minimum of oil spritzes onto the tray of squash slices. The squash won’t be quite as crispy or golden when it’s cooked, but it will still be delicious.

Storing Your Delicata Squash Leftovers

Any leftover cooked squash will last about 3-5 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container. You can also freeze any remaining simple roasted squash in a freezer-safe covered container or bag for up to 4-6 months.

More Roasted Vegan Recipes to Try

• Perfect Sweet Spiced Pumpkin Seeds
• Sheet Pan Roasted Peas
• Simple Sweet Roasted Chickpeas
• Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
• Roasted Asparagus With Garlic, Tomatoes, and Tahini Drizzle
• Savory Roasted Chickpeas
• Roasted Beetroot Hummus
• Oven Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
• Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Pilaf

Equipment You’ll Need

There’s not a whole lot you’ll need to make this ravishing recipe. All that’s truly necessary is an microwave, knife, oven, and baking sheet.

• Measuring Spoons
• Oven
• Microwave
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board
• Pastry or Silicone Brush (optional for oil application)
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
• Baking Sheet
• Spatula

Print

Simple Roasted Delicata Squash (With Air Fryer Option)

This simple roasted delicata squash recipe is so scrumptious, you just have to give it a try! It's easy to make anytime and serves as a tasty side dish during the autumn months when squash are plentiful. This dish is warm, nutty, and truly flavorful.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipes, delicata squash recipe, roasted delicata squash

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 1 -2

Calories 213kcal

Author Gina House

Ingredients

• 1 medium Delicata squash around 6-8 inches in length
• ½ tablespoon vegetable oil or oil spray or oil of your choice
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper or to taste

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
• Wash the outside of the squash.
• Cut the ends off of the squash. Place the squash into the microwave and cook for 4 minutes on high (depends on the power of your microwave). The squash should be slightly squishy, but not fully cooked.
• Let the squash cool for at least 5 minutes before cutting. Once the squash is cool, use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out all of the seeds.
• Cut the squash into ½” slices so that you have semi-circle (smiley) shapes.
• Lay the squash slices in a single layer onto a parchment lined baking sheet.
• Brush or spray the pieces with oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the outside looks crisp and golden, gently flipping them over halfway through the cooking process. Once done, use a spatula to remove the slices from the baking sheet. Serve with tahini or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tahini Sauce – Add 2 tablespoons of tahini to a small bowl and add ½-1 tablespoon of warm water. Use a fork or whisk to mix well. Drizzle over your squash or add to a small bowl for dipping.
• Oil-free Version – You can completely eliminate the oil if you wish or just give the bare minimum of oil spritzes onto the tray of squash slices.
• Air Fryer Method – While you cut the squash into slices, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees for 5 minutes. Lay your slices out on a plate or cutting board. Brush with oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Add the slices in a single layer to the basket and cook at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices over halfway and being careful to check that they are crisp (but not burnt) on the outside.
• Squash Substitutions – You can use other types of squash for this recipe. Kabocha, acorn, and butternut all work well in this recipe. Steaming time may vary if the squash is more dense than the Delicata squash, so microwave in 1 minute extra intervals if 4 minutes is not enough and your squash is still very hard.
• Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free

Nutrition

Calories: 213kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 1185mg | Potassium: 1586mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 6193IU | Vitamin C: 56mg | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 3mg

Roasted squash photos by JJ Steele for World of Vegan. If you try this simple roasted squash recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below. Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

The post Simple Roasted Delicata Squash (With Air Fryer Option) appeared first on World of Vegan.

With a few skillful cuts and a lot of creamy vegan butter, you’ll be enjoying your corn ribs in no time. All you need is your air fryer, a fresh cob, and a sharp knife. No need to be forlorn, we know you’ll totally love this way of making corn!

Why You Need to Make These Vegan Corn Ribs

Do you really need a good reason to carve up some corn on the cob? If you need more motivation, consider the fact that they’ve got a fabulous flavor and keep reading!

• Quick and easy to make (once you get the corn spears cut)
• No need to turn on the oven (so helpful on super hot days)
• Colorful, creamy, and sweet
• Learn a new technique to impress your family
• Gluten-free, soy-free (if using soy-free vegan butter), nut-free, and dairy-free

Star Ingredients

Although there are so few ingredients in this recipe, they all add up to a healthy and happy digestion. What more could you ask for?

Corn – Rich in vitamin C and fiber, good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, plus small amounts of vitamins B, E, K, and minerals such as magnesium and potassium. Explore more vegan corn recipes for corny inspiration!

Chipotle – adds a moderate amount of spiciness and some fruity notes to the food.

Garlic – Brings a pungent element into the recipe, along with vitamin C, B6, manganese, and fiber. Garlic also has antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.

Vegan Butter – You can use any plant-based butter in this recipe. We used Flora Plant Butter, which we love because it’s sustainably packaged in paper instead of plastic!

Salt – These corn ribs are very flavorful, due in part to the salt. If you’d like more mild corn ribs, use less salt. And if you double or triple the recipe, the flavor may become overpowering, so scale back on the salt and garlic powder. You can always add more once they’re done cooking!

Corn Rib Cutting Technique

Our advice: slow and steady wins the race. Or, in this case, the corn! When making your cuts, just take your time and don’t strive for perfection. Even if the ribs are a little bit off, they’ll still be scrumptious.

• First, cut the cob in half lengthwise to make two shorter cob sections. Not too bad, right?
• Second, you’re going to stand the cob on its end so that it like a tall-ish cylinder. Keep in mind that the next steps are very similar to cutting a circular pizza.
• Third, (now this is important) use slow, sawing motions with a sharp knife (you can try both a chef’s knife or bread knife to see which one works better for you) to cut through the center of the cob from top to bottom to make two semi-circular pieces. Do this for both cob sections. You should have 4 pieces total.
• Finally, do the same thing for each of the semi-circular pieces so that they form spears (like pickles, only with corn). You should have 4 spears (or ribs) from each short cob section, making 8 total.

How to Make Corn Ribs

Please don’t feel intimidated by this simple rib recipe. Once you cut your first slice of corn, you’ll know what you’re doing and the rest will be a breeze.

1. Pull the husks and silks off of the corn cob.
2. Cut the corn into 8 rib spears.
3. In a bowl, mix the butter and spices together.
4. Coat each of the ribs on both sides with the butter mixture.
5. Air fry the corn at 375 degrees for 8 minutes, flip, and then cook for another 4 minutes.

Equipment You’ll Need

There’s not a lot of equipment needed to make these super yummy ribs, but it may take extra time and patience to cut into the cobs. You can do it––just focus on going slow and steady.

• Very Sharp Large Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Spoons
• Basting Brush
• Air Fryer (or baking sheet and oven)
• Strong muscles

How to Serve Up Your Spicy Corn Ribs

A simple and spicy side can only enhance a midweek meal. If you’re not sure how to serve up these mouthwatering ribs, here are a few suggestions:

• Call Up The Chili Train – Corn and chili really go well together and the combined festive flavors would be divine. Make our two-bean chili recipe with these crispy corn ribs on the side for maximum mealtime happiness.
• Burgers, Buns, and Barbecue – I don’t know about you, but a barbecue isn’t complete without some sort of delightful corn dish. Pair our black bean burger with these rich and savory riblets for the most amazing indoor barbecue adventure.
• Team Up With Tacos – Crunch and munch go hand in hand when it comes to corn and tacos. Choose from chipotle mushroom tacos, or our amazing meat lover’s beefy tacos! Both would really be delicious by either double-blending the chipotle or adding extra spice to the Taco Tuesday turnout.

Vegan Corn Ribs FAQs

Here are some more frequently asked questions when it comes to cooking and storing the chipotle corn ribs. If you came up with any tips or tricks for this recipe, please add them to the comments below. It would be a great resource for other World of Vegan readers!

Can you freeze the corn ribs?

You can freeze any leftover corn ribs in a sealed plastic container or freezer-safe bag for up to a year. Though once they’re seasoned, cooked and frozen, they will slowly degrade in both flavor and texture.

How long do corn ribs keep?

In the fridge, any remaining corn will be good for about 3-4 days.

Can you make this recipe soy-free?

That’s an easy one––yes! Just choose a plant-based butter that does not contain soy. Some brands will use coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil instead.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

Though your ribs will be crispier and a little bit crunchier in the air fryer, you can certainly use your oven to make these. If you have a convection option, even better. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place your ribs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cook for about 10 minutes on one side, flip, and then 8-10 minutes on the other side.

How do I reheat corn ribs?

Either use a skillet on medium heat, the microwave, or add back to the air fryer for a few minutes. All methods will warm up your ribs, though the air fryer will get them back almost to their original texture.

More Vegan Air-Fryer Recipes to Try

Unlock the convenience of vegan air fryer recipes and savor guilt-free indulgence. From crispy tofu bites to wholesome fries, these recipes showcase the effortless, healthy, and delicious side of air frying for your plant-based journey.

• Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
• Nooch-Encrusted Tofu Cubes
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
• Crispy Potato Wedges
• Vegan Burger Tater Tots

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Chipotle Corn Ribs (in the Air Fryer)

These spicy vegan chipotle corn ribs are so flavorful and easy to make—no grill necessary! It’s a delicious way to enjoy corn any time of year. It’s a perfect party food—just cut the corn into corn ribs in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry them. Cutting the raw corn cob is the hardest part, so be sure to bring some muscle power and a steady hand! Thank you for this brilliant food trend, TikTok!

Course Sides

Cuisine American

Keyword air-fried corn ribs, bbq side dish, corn ribs recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 27 minutes minutes

Servings 8 corn ribs

Calories 23kcal

Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 corn on the cob uncooked
• 1 tablespoon vegan butter melted
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Note: the hardest part about this recipe is cutting the corn cob. Please be safe about this! It requires a very sharp large knife and a lot of muscle strength. 
• Shuck the corn by removing the husk and all the stringy fibers (which can be discarded or added to your compost).
• Cut the corn cob in half and then into quarters creating 8 spears that will be your “corn ribs.” Here’s how: Using a sharp knife, lots of muscle, and steady hands, slice the corn in half crosswise creating two much shorter cob (this is the easiest cut). Then, take one half, steady it on the cutting board, and cut it in half lengthwise. This is tough to do, and will require a see-saw motion with your knife as you slowly work your way through the core of the rind. Once cut, place each piece with thee flat side down, and cut in half lengthwise again, so you have four spears (“corn ribs”). Take your remaining half-cob and do the same, so you have a total of 8 corn rib spears.
• In a small bowl, mix together the melted vegan butter, garlic powder, chipotle powder, and salt until well combined.
• Using a basting brush, brush the buttery mixture evenly over all the corn ribs until they are fully coated.
• Place the seasoned corn ribs into an air fryer, forming a single layer. Air fry at 375ºF for 8 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4 minutes.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 23kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 51mg | Potassium: 33mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.1mg

If you try this chipotle corn ribs recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration. Vegan food photography by J.J. Steele.

The post Chipotle Corn Ribs (in the Air Fryer) appeared first on World of Vegan.

Tempeh, like tofu, can take on the flavors of any marinade. In this recipe, salty and savory ingredients combine with a sweet sauce for maximum satisfaction. With only one bite, you’ll be totally hooked on this anytime, air fryer technique.

If you’ve had tofu too many times this week, we highly recommend giving air fried tempeh a try!

Why Air Fryer Tempeh is So Awesome

You don’t have to take our word for it, but air fryer tempeh is the tops! Not only is the block unfailingly fun to cut into chunks, but the chewy quality is extremely satisfying. Want more reasons to enjoy this fermented food?

• High in plant-based protein (around 31 grams in one cup).
• Excellent in a variety of different dishes from salads, soups, tacos, noodles, and everything in between!
• A delightful snack for any time of day.
• The air fryer creates the best combination of a crispy outside and tender inside for the tempeh.

What is Tempeh?

Originating in Indonesia, tempeh is a rectangular block (or patty) of fermented soybeans. The texture is firm, slightly crumbly, and has a white overcast (created from the fermentation process). Tempeh’s flavor is dry, nutty, and slightly bitter.

Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions

Feel free to swap out an ingredient or two to help personalize this recipe and make it your own. The essential ingredients are listed at the top with some suggestions on items you can change underneath. If you feel adventurous with sauces, go for it!

• Tempeh: This isoflavone-rich food is a great source of protein, B-vitamins, iron, fiber, and calcium. It’s easy to find in most grocery stores and can be a savory sandwich filler.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: A little goes a looong way! Be careful that you use toasted rather than plain sesame oil for this recipe. The flavor is completely different—the toasted element is essential.
• Soy Sauce: If you’re gluten-intolerant or gluten-sensitive, swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This slightly spicy, slightly sweet condiment creates the most luscious glaze on the tempeh. It’s the perfect complement to the dry, crumbly texture of the tempeh.
• Saucy Suggestions: Tempeh, like tofu, is extremely versatile when it comes to flavors. Other sauces that would go well with the air-fried tempeh include—peanut dipping, panang curry, sweet and sour, and homemade barbecue.

This recipe is so easy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a bold dish that’s delicious and filling.

How To Cook Tempeh

Tempeh needs to be cooked before eating. Besides baking and pan frying, this nubbly and pleasant protein can be also be air-fried. The best way to take out the bitterness of tempeh is to steam it first.

How long to cook tempeh? For baking, give the tempeh about 15-20 minutes to cook in a 350 degree oven. If you’re pan-frying, 10-12 minutes should work out well over medium heat in an oily skillet.

How To Air Fryer Tempeh

Step One: Start with a block of tempeh. Cut into ½-inch thick cubes. Steam the tempeh for about 10 minutes to help remove some of the bitterness. Allow to cool before marinating. Combine the marinade ingredients together in a plastic bag or container, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Marinate for 1 hour, or up to overnight, for the best flavor.

Step Two: If your air-fryer requires preheating, do so first. Remove the tempeh from the marinade, shaking off any excess and add to the basket in a single layer. Cook at 350 degrees for 10 minutes, shaking the basket once after 5 minutes. Garnish with the scallions and sesame seeds and drizzle with the sweet chili sauce. Serve immediately!

How To Serve Up Marinated Tempeh

This is the fun part! Once you have cooked and marinated your tempeh, there are endless ways to add it to your weekly meal plan. If you come up with an especially delectable combination, make sure to share it in the comments below!

• For an Asian-inspired dish, serve with broccoli (steamed, baked, or air-fried), sticky rice, and/or peanut noodles.
• If you’re in the mood for Mexican, swap out the sweet chili sauce for avocado or salsa. Then, plate up with homemade corn tortillas and a tomato-based, seasoned rice.
• Lovers of Korean food will love this tempeh prepared with rice, kimchi, pickled veggies, bean sprouts, and cucumber salad.
• Boost the protein in your everyday salad by adding tempeh! You’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed fresh and crisp or sauteed greens without it! (Also, once cooked, the tempeh can be thrown into your salad cold and it’s still really tasty.)
• Tempting toppings can add even more depth and dimension. How about crushed red pepper, hot sauce, pickled ginger, or wasabi?

Air Fryer Tempeh Q&A

More Appetizing Air Fryer Recipes to Try

• Air Fryer Broccoli is a smart way to get in more cruciferous veggies. Crisp and delicious!
• Include savory Air Fryer Home Fries to your bunch menu for an extra special treat.
• Instead of crowding the grill, make Chipotle Corn Ribs in the air fryer. Perfect for weekend BBQs!
• Swap out potatoes for zucchini and serve up these unique and super tasty Air Fryer Zucchini Fries.
• Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash has its own serving container! Simply air fry, scrape out strands (so fun!), and top with your favorite sauce. Yum!

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Air Fryer Tempeh

Quick, easy, and tantalizing tempeh in under 30 minutes! It’s a scrumptious substitute for tofu, too. It’s as simple as cutting into cubes, marinating, and allowing the air fryer to do its thing. A delicious, Asian-inspired dish that has satisfying elements of sweet, savory, and umami. You’ll love it!

Course Appetizer or Snack, Lunch or Dinner

Cuisine asian

Keyword air fryer, air fryer recipes, tempeh

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Steaming (optional) 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 157kcal

Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 8-oz block of tempeh plain
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce tamari or coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 large scallion finely sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds black or white

Instructions

Advanced Instructions: Steaming (optional) & Marinating

• Cut the block of tempeh into ½-inch cubes.
• Place the cubes in steaming insert, cover, and steam over boiling water for 10 minutes.
• Once at room temperature, place the tempeh cubes into a container or a zip bag. Pour in the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, pepper, and smoked paprika and shake or mix. Make sure every piece is coated, and then cover the container or seal the bag. Let marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight (for deeper flavor).

Cooking Instructions

• Preheat the air fryer (if your air fryer model requires preheating).
• Carefully scoop out your marinated tempeh, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and add it to the air fryer basket.
• Cook at 350 for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Transfer the air fried tempeh to a serving bowl, drizzle with the sweet chili sauce, and mix well. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.

Notes

This air fryer tempeh is perfect served with steamed rice, noodles, and/or with a mixture of roasted, air fried, or fresh vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 157kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 566mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 125IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Air Fryer Tempeh appeared first on World of Vegan.

Originally from the Indonesian island of Java, satay quickly spread to the surrounding Southeast Asian countries, developing into hundreds of thousands of unique variations in this basic concept. All it takes is marinated protein cooked on a stick and served with peanut sauce to qualify. We can make that one better: We can make it vegan, and even better than restaurant take out, too!

Why You’ll Love This Tofu Satay

• Eat with your hands! No forks or knives necessary for this fun entre. Just reach right in, grab a skewer, and start dipping! That also means there are fewer dishes and utensils to wash afterwards.
• Effortless, versatile cooking options. Depending on your preference, you can toss these skewers on the grill, in the oven, or into the air fryer, all with brilliantly crispy results.
• High in protein. Forget chalky protein powders, shakes, and bars; you can easily get all the protein you need from delicious whole foods! Each serving has a whopping 13 grams of protein, and that’s assuming you can stop at just one helping.
• Family-friendly. For more picky palates, you can adjust the spices to any heat level you want, be it mild or wild.

Key Ingredients

If you think satay demands obscure ingredients only found in specialty stores, think again! Everything you need is waiting for you at your nearest everyday grocery store.

• Tofu: Extra-firm from Hodo Foods makes this recipe a snap. There’s no need to press before marinating since it’s already dense and meaty right out of the package. Other brands might be labeled this as “super-firm” and are sold in vacuum-sealed packages in the produce department.
• Pineapple juice: Naturally sweet without added sugars, the bright, tangy acidity of pineapple juice helps caramelize the tofu, while also cutting through the richness of the peanut butter.
• Soy sauce: Instant umami in a bottle, just a splash of soy sauce adds world of savory flavor to any dish. It can also add a considerable serving of sodium, so you might want to seek out “lite” or low-sodium options if salt intake is a concern.
• Peanut butter: All peanut butter is not created equal. Creamy, natural, no-sugar-added peanut butter is your best bet here to avoid excess sugars and unnecessary additives.
• Rice Vinegar: Clear and neutral in flavor, rice vinegar is very mild. In a pinch, you could substitute apple cider vinegar instead.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes are the spices that make this meal sing! No pantry is complete without these staples; you’ll never regret having extra on hand.

How To Make Tofu Satay

Here’s the easy process to make this tofu satay in the air fryer with step-by-step photos. For baking or grilling instructions, reference the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step One: Drain the tofu and pat dry with a lint-free towel. If using tofu packaged in water, press out the excess water first. Cut into satay strips approximately ¾-inch wide, ¾-inch thick, and 3-4 inches long. Use a toothpick or skewer to pierce each piece of tofu several times on each side to help it absorb more marinade.

Step Two: Prepare tofu marinade by mixing together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.

Step Three: In a shallow container with a lid or in a large silicone or ziplock bag, lay the tofu flat (in at most two layers) and pour over the marinade. Cover (or seal) and place in the refrigerator for at least two hours to marinate. Flip the tofu pieces over and continue marinating in the fridge for several more hours (or ideally overnight). The marinated sides will become brown in color. If needed, flip tofu again to evenly marinate all sides.

Step Four: When the tofu is ready, remove one slice at a time from the marinade and lay it on a flat surface. Gently push a bamboo skewer lengthwise through the center, stopping when the skewer reaches the end of the tofu. Repeat with the remaining tofu.

Step Five: Trim the skewers to about two inches beyond the tofu. Lay the tofu skewers flat in the air fryer and cook at 400 degrees for 3 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until nicely browned. Longer air fryer time will create firmer chewier and dryer tofu satay. If you prefer softer tofu satay, cook for less time.

Step Six: While the tofu is air frying, prepare the peanut dipping sauce. Combine the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl and mix well until you have a smooth sauce.

Serve tofu satay drizzled with peanut dipping sauce and topped with fresh cilantro, along with a side of peanut dipping sauce (optionally topped with peanuts). Enjoy hot.

Tips For Success

Ensure success from the very start with a few simple tips and tricks:

1. Soak your skewers in warm water for 10 to 30 minutes before cooking to prevent them from burning or catching on fire.
2. The longer you can marinate the tofu, the better. Overnight is ideal, but you can even let it sit for 24 hours to really lock in those flavors.
3. Make sure none of the tofu pieces are overlapping while they cook. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. If your peanut sauce is too thick, slowly drizzle in water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

How To Serve Up Your Tofu Satay Skewers

These handy, single-serving skewers are ideal party food, ready to mix and mingle with the best of them. If you’d like to turn them into a full meal, there are lots of complimentary side dishes that would make a perfect pairing, such as:

• Stir-fried vegetables
• Cucumber salad
• Shredded cabbage dressed with sesame oil and lime juice
• Steamed sticky rice or brown rice
• Noodles

Ideas For Using Peanut Satay Sauce

This vegan peanut sauce recipe is as good as liquid gold. It’s worth doubling to make sure you have leftovers, since it’s endlessly useful in many other delicious meals. You can also use it as…

• Salad dressing
• Pasta sauce
• Dip for crudité or spring rolls
• Curry sauce starter
• Soup base or mix-in

FAQs

More Tempting Tofu Recipes To Try

• Tofu Kebabs
• Shredded Tofu Bowl
• Szechuan Tofu
• Tofu Waffles
• Crispy Tofu Fries
• Palak Tofu (Tofu Spinach Curry)
• Tofu Scramble
• Easy Tofu Bacon
• Vegan Lasagna With Tofu Ricotta

Take a peek at our Soy Curls guide with lots of recipes on how to serve up these tasty little morsels. Soy curls are a fun and delicious cousin to tofu that is totally worth a try. Highly recommended!

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Easy Tofu Satay with Peanut Dipping Sauce

This sweet and spicy tofu satay paired with an easy peanut dipping sauce will be your new favorite weeknight dinner! It's fun and fancy enough for a special occasion or serving a crowd, but simple enough to pull off any day of the week.

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Thai

Keyword tofu satay, vegan satay

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 6 minutes minutes

Marinating 8 hours hours

Total Time 8 hours hours 11 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 176kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer (or oven or grill)
• Bamboo skewers

Ingredients

Marinated Tofu Satay:

• 1 block super-firm tofu Hodo
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons pineapple juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Peanut Dipping Sauce:

• ¼ cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• ½ lime juiced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon water

Garnishes:

• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
• Chopped peanuts
• Lime wedge

Instructions

• Drain tofu, pat dry with a paper towel, and cut into satay strips approximately ¾-inch wide, ¾-inch thick, and 3 – 4 inches long. Using a toothpick or skewer, pierce each piece of tofu several times on each side (this will help the tofu soak up more of the marinade and become more flavorful).
• Prepare tofu marinade: In a small bowl, make the tofu marinade by mixing together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
• In a container with a lid (like this) or in a large silicone or ziplock bag, lay the tofu flat (in at most two layers) and pour the marinade on top. Cover (or seal) and place in the refrigerator for at least two hours. Flip the tofu pieces over and allow to marinate in the fridge for several more hours (or ideally overnight). The longer you give the tofu to marinate, the more flavorful it will become. You will see the marinated sides become brown in color. If needed, flip tofu again to evenly marinate all sides.
• Once marinated, lay a tofu piece on a flat surface and gently push a bamboo skewer lengthwise through the center, stopping when the skewer reaches the end of the tofu. Repeat for remaining tofu.
• Use sharp scissors to trim the skewers to just two inches beyond the tofu. Lay tofu flat in the air fryer and air fry at 400 degrees for 3 minutes. Flip and air fry an additional 3-4 minutes, until nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Longer air fryer time will create firmer chewier and dryer tofu satay. If you prefer softer tofu satay, cook for less time.
• Prepare peanut dipping sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ground ginger, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and water, and mix well until you have a smooth sauce.
• Serve tofu satay drizzled with peanut dipping sauce and topped with fresh cilantro, along with a side of peanut dipping sauce (optionally topped with peanuts). Enjoy hot.

Notes

To bake: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and lay tofu skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flip, and bake another 10-15 minutes.

To grill: Cook tofu satay on the grill to your liking.

Nutrition

Calories: 176kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 975mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 86IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Tofu Satay appeared first on World of Vegan.

It may sound fishy, but there’s a wide range of news option out there for seafood lovers that comes from the land, not the ocean. Plant-based salmon has been in the works as long as veggie burgers have been hitting hot grills but are only now making a splash onto the market. Replicating the distinct, delicate flavor and texture is much more challenging than generic ground meat, which makes the latest innovations in food technology a real coup for compassionate consumers.

What’s Wrong With Conventional Salmon?

The problems with salmon go far beyond the concerns over eating animals. Fishing is destroying our oceans, isn’t as healthy as you may think it is, and there are even human rights issues as well.

Slave labor on fishing boats is a common practice outside of the US. That means lower prices at the grocery store at the cost of incredible human suffering. According to the Global Slavery Index, a 2017 study of Cambodian and Burmese fishers in Thailand between 2011 and 2016 found more than 75 percent of migrant workers in the Thai fishing industry had been held in debt bondage. Nearly 40 percent had been trafficked into the Thai fishing industry in that time frame as well.

Overfishing takes critical food sources away from other wild animals, causing ecosystems to collapse. “Ecological extinction caused by overfishing precedes all other pervasive human disturbance to coastal ecosystems, including pollution, degradation of water quality, and anthropogenic climate change,” reports a study published in the peer review journal, Science. When we run out of salmon, we don’t just decimate that one species; it causes a ripple effect that will starve bears, orcas, eagles, and many more animals.

But most of salmon today is farm-raised. Farm-raised salmon contains unhealthy levels of contaminants like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls,) dioxins, mercury, and other chemicals shown to cause cancer and developmental problems in children.

What Is Vegan Salmon Made Of?

There are many novel methods for creating fish-free salmon yielding unique results, best suited for different types of preparation.

• High-tech plant protein blends: These are the most advanced faux fish meant to imitate the flaky texture and buttery mouthfeel of conventional salmon most accurately. Carefully developed to match the nutritional content as well, you can expect a full range of vital omega fatty acids that dietitians are most drawn to. Consider these the Impossible burgers of the sea.
• Konjac, AKA konnyaku or elephant yam: This Asian root vegetable is commonly dried, ground into powder, then cooked with liquid and spices before being molded into new shapes. This makes it possible to recreate the gentle curve or a shrimp’s shell, or in this case, the slick marbled pattern of raw salmon sashimi. It has a bouncy, chewy texture that suits raw seafood preparations particularly well.
• Traditional vegan proteins: Seitan (wheat gluten,) tofu, and tempeh can all be used to roughly approximate an oceanic eating experience. Marinades that include seaweed, such as kombu, nori, or kelp are key for the flavor. No one would be fooled into thinking it was genuine fish, but the finished dishes easily satisfy the same cravings.
• Fruits and vegetables: Really putting the “plant” into “plant-based,” this earthy, whole foods approach creates surprisingly convincing alternatives using just what nature provides. Humble carrots can be transformed into smoked salmon and watermelon into tuna using only carefully chosen seasonings, heat, and time.
• Algae oil: It’s not your imagination if your vegan fish tastes, well, fishy! A growing number of companies are including algae oil in vegan seafood products for a few reasons. First, it tastes fishy. Some products are almost indistinguishable from their oceanic counterparts because of the addition of this umami oil. Second, it’s rich in omega fatty acids—one of the main reasons people consume fish in the first place. You’ll also find algae oil added to non-fishy items like vegan milk in order to give it an omega fat boost.

Best Vegan Salmon Brands

When you want vegan salmon that tastes and looks identical to conventional fish, there are more choices than ever to indulge in. Shop online for the widest selection since most are still specialty goods and imports from overseas.

• Vegan Zeastar Zalmon Sashimi
• GreatFoods It’s Vegan Vegan Salmon Sashimi
• Goldie Lox Vegan Carrot Lox
• Good Catch Salmon Burgers
• Sophie’s Kitchen Vegan Smoked Salmon
• Plantish Vegan Salmon Fillet
• Prefera Foods Unfished PlantZalmon Spread
• Save Da Sea Plant-Based Smoked Salmon
• May Wah Vegan Salmon Fillet
• Miyoko’s Unloxed Cream Cheese

Vegan Zeastar Zalmon Sashimi

GreatFoods It’s Vegan Vegan Salmon Sashimi

Goldie Lox Vegan Carrot Lox

Good Catch Salmon Burgers

Sophie’s Kitchen Vegan Smoked Salmon

Plantish Vegan Salmon Fillet

Prefera Foods Unfished Plant-Based Zalmon Spread

Save Da Sea Plant-Based Smoked Salmon

May Wah Vegan Salmon Fillet

Miyoko’s Fish-Free Lox Cultured Cream Cheese

Is Vegan Salmon Healthy?

While we often hear that fish is a healthy source of lean protein and omega fats, the benefits of eating fish may be overstated, and the actual health impact of salmon may equal a net negative.

The Environmental Defense Fund suggests that all adults limit wild salmon to one serving per month and farmed salmon to no more than two, because of PCB contamination. High acid levels in fish can cause calcium loss leading to osteoporosis and kidney stones.

A growing body of research continues to point to the benefits of a plant-based diet including healthy plant sources of omega fatty acids. Plant-based diets are often more cost-effective and a low-risk way to lower mortality risks such as high body mass index, high blood pressure, HbA_1C, and high cholesterol levels. Plant-based diets may also reduce the number of medications needed to treat chronic diseases.

Vegan salmon can come from a number of sources from pea protein to vegetables seasoned to taste like salmon. Since the sources of vegan salmon vary wildly, it’s difficult to assess the nutritional benefits as a whole. But, common vegan salmon substitutes (some are listed below) show strong nutrition profiles including lean protein, high fiber, and a healthy dose of omega fatty acids.

What About Salmon Roe?

Some people mistakenly believe that salmon roe, AKA fish eggs, or ikura in Japanese, can be done sustainably. While only one method involves killing the fish, all exploitative at best and horrifically brutal at worst. Eggs are stripped directly from the live fish’s ovaries for the span of their lifetimes.

Luckily, vegan salmon roe exists, too! Typically made from agar, which is a type of seaweed, it has the very same look and feel as the animal products, with the added benefit of costing a fraction of the price. Cavi-art is the most popular and widely available brand, or you can make your own using marinated tapioca pearls.  

How To Make Vegan Salmon From Scratch

Vegan salmon has yet to swim onto mainstream markets, but that doesn’t mean you need to go without. There are plenty of easy recipes for making your own healthy salmon alternatives at home.

• Vegan Salmon Fillets (see recipe card at the bottom of this post) transform tofu into a centerpiece with crispy skin and a tender, flaky interior. It can be baked or air fried for greater ease of preparation.
• Carrot Lox (Smoked Salmon) will upgrade your next bagel with cream cheese like nothing else. Smoky, briny, and flecked with fresh dill, it tastes like a million bucks, but costs less than one dollar per serving.
• Fish-Free Salmon Sashimi starts with unripe cantaloupe. It may sound like a questionable base, but the melon contributes only a subtle sweetness and beautiful orange hue. This recipe is perfect for making all your vegan sushi dreams come true.
• Vegan Flaked Salmon starts with jackfruit to create a quick and easy substitute for conventional canned salmon. The texture is ideal for making seafood salads, salmon cakes, or salmon noodle casseroles.
• Mock Salmon Pate is just nuts- Literally! Walnuts are blended to a smooth, spreadable texture for this completely raw recipe that makes an elegant topper for crackers or vegetable crudites.

More Recipe Ideas For Vegan Seafood

• Vegan Fish Tacos
• Artichoke “Tuna” Salad Sandwiches
• Fried Oyster Mushrooms
• Vegan Corn Chowder
• Vegan Chickpea Tuna Salad

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Easy Vegan Salmon Fillets

This vegan salmon recipe has a wonderful fishy flavor thanks to a secret ingredient—nori! It has a beautiful pink color, flaky flesh that replicates the look of salmon, and is surprisingly easy to make!

Course Lunch or Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword tofu salmon, vegan salmon, vegan salmon recipe

Prep Time 55 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings 4 fillets

Calories 107kcal

Author Rachel Lessenden | World of Vegan

Equipment

• Blender
• Shallow Marinating Dish
• Air Fryer or Oven

Ingredients

• 16 oz extra firm tofu
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup beet juice from canned beets
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 nori sheets divided
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

• Drain and press tofu for 15-30 minutes to remove excess water. Use a tofu press or wrap tofu block in paper towels and place between two cutting boards with heavy objects such as cans on top.
• Meanwhile, prepare the marinade. Add the broth, beet juice, miso paste, vinegar, and soy sauce to a high speed blender. Roughly tear 1 full nori sheet to help it fit into the blender (save the other nori sheet for later). If you want a smoky flavor, add the optional smoked paprika now.
• Blend on high for about 1 minute until the nori sheet is fully incorporated into the marinade.
• When the tofu is ready, transfer to a cutting board and slice the tofu block in half lengthwise, then slice in half lengthwise again to get 4 even rectangles.
• One at a time, place two chopsticks or metal straws, one on each long side of a piece of tofu, and carefully slice diagonally on top every 1/8-inch wide, using the chopsticks or straws to prevent from cutting all the way through. This replicates the flaky salmon look as well as allows more marinade to absorb.
• Transfer tofu to a large shallow dish cut-side up in a single layer and pour over the marinade. Make sure that the tofu is completely covered. It’s ok if the tofu floats. Tip: When covering the tofu with marinade, gently spread open the slices to allow more marinade to absorb. Using a larger shallow dish so that the tofu isn’t squished together helps. Allow to marinade for at least 30 minutes or overnight, covered in the refrigerator.
• When tofu is done marinating, preheat oven to 350°F if using this cooking method. If air frying, no need to preheat air fryer.
• Cut the last nori sheet to fit the bottom of the tofu salmons to replicate the “skin” (you may not need the entire nori sheet for this, feel free to save what you don't use to add to salads or sushi bowls). Remove tofu from marinade and set each tofu salmon cut-side up on top of the nori sheets. The moisture from the marinade acts as a glue to help it stick.
• Optional: Spray the tops with a little oil or alternatively, you can brush some olive oil on top, and gently push it into the slices of the tofu to help replicate the oiliness of salmon.
• By Oven: Transfer vegan salmon to a baking tray lined with parchment paper with the nori sheet side down. Bake in the oven on the top rack for 20-25 minutes until the top starts to crisp up.
• By Air Fryer: Transfer vegan salmon to the air fryer basket with the nori sheet side down. Air fry at 350 degrees F for 10-13 minutes until heated through.

Notes

Tip – If you chose to marinate overnight, you may need to cook a little longer. For baking, add 5-10 extra minutes until the top starts to crisp up. For air frying, add 3-5 extra minutes.

Serving suggestion – Serve with capers, lemon wedges, and fresh dill.

What to do with leftover marinade? – This recipe makes plenty of marinade to make sure that the tofu gets fully submerged. You can reuse it for more vegan salmon if you have extra blocks of tofu to cook up. You could also add it to a curry to give it a fishy flavor, or Pad Thai since that typically contains fish sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Sodium: 918mg | Potassium: 251mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 458IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 2mg

This vegan salmon guide was written with support from Hannah Kaminsky, Creative Compass, and Jill Ettinger. Vegan salmon recipe and photo by Rachel Lessenden. Brand photos are sourced from the respective salmon brand’s social media channels.

The post Vegan Salmon: The Complete Guide to Nutrition, Brands, and Recipes appeared first on World of Vegan.

Traditionally, the humble spud is transformed through a bath in bubbling hot oil, coming out impeccably golden and utterly irresistible every time. It’s the only reliable vegan staple on some road trips, earning it a place of honor for weary vegan travelers across the world. Take matters into your own hands back at home by updating the outdated recipe with a modern overhaul.

If you adore these Air Fryer Tofu Fries, make sure to check out these tasty Grilled Tofu Kebabs!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tofu Fries Recipe

• High protein. Every serving of tofu fries comes with 10 grams of complete plant protein. That’s better than many granola bars on the market!
• Low or no oil. If you’re watching your fat intake, you don’t have to give up the sensation of deep-fried foods when you have an air fryer in the kitchen. All it takes is one teaspoon of toasted sesame oil to contribute a similar sensation of richness, which can be omitted if desired.
• Family-friendly. Kids of all ages (including so-called adults) will love this savory treat! Even tofu-haters will clean their plates without a second thought, which makes it the ultimate “happy meal” in my book.
• Quick and easy. It’s tough to make smart choices when you’re tired and hungry. Eliminate the struggle and get this recipe on the table in 30 minutes or less.

Key Ingredients

Tofu – Extra-firm or super-firm would be ideal to make fries that stand up to air frying without falling apart. These are usually sold in vacuum-sealed packages in the produce department. We used the extra-firm tofu from Hodo Foods, which worked perfectly!

Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder are my go-to meal starters, but don’t let those suggestions hold you back. Adjust the amounts to taste and check out the section below on more creative ideas when you want to spice things up.

Toasted sesame oil – This flavorful savory oil is a vegan pantry staple in our opinion, right next to olive oil and vegetable oil. Nutty and rich, a little bit of toasted sesame oil goes a long way. Spread across four generous servings, it’s a literal drop in the bucket compared to the full vat of oil that’s typically used for conventional deep frying. Don’t have sesame oil on hand? Swap it out for Canola oil or your favorite vegetable oil.

Cornstarch – If you have an air fryer, cornstarch will become your best friend. Cornstarch is the secret to getting super crispy edges on tofu, whether you’re pan-frying, baking, air-frying, or deep frying. You can substitute an equal amount of potato starch or tapioca starch if you’d prefer.

Nutritional yeast – Butter, cheesy, and undeniably umami, nutritional yeast simply makes everything taste better!

How To Cut Tofu Into Tofu Fries

The average block of tofu may not immediately look like thin shoestring fries waiting to happen, but it’s very simple to slice out perfect matchsticks in minutes.

1. First, slice the tofu into long rectangular strips approximately 1cm wide. You should have 7 to 8 long strips, depending on the shape of your tofu.
2. Next, cut the tofu slab in half so you have two equivalent rectangles that look like two decks of playing cards.
3. Finally, slice each rectangle into two or three fry-sized strips (depending on the size and shape of your block of tofu) approximately 1cm wide.
4. Voila, you have tofu fries! Now separate and season.

Ideas For Creative Spices And Simple Substitutions

Just like standard fries, there’s nothing wrong with a simple sprinkle of salt to finish the batch, but the potential for further customization is endless. A little creativity and a well-stocked spice rack will take your tofu to the next level.

• Cajun tofu fries: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, depending on how spicy you’d like your fries, and cook for a few extra minutes to enhance the “blackened” effect.
• Garlic tofu fries: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic in the last 4 minutes of cooking. Top with minced fresh parsley and a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan, if desired.
• Truffled tofu fries: Top the finished fries with truffle-infused salt or a light drizzle of truffle oil right before serving.
• Masala tofu fries: Add 1 tablespoon masala powder or madras curry powder and finish with a squeeze of lime juice and minced fresh cilantro.
• Hot vegan honey tofu fries: Toss the finished fries with 1 tablespoon vegan honey, agave, or maple syrup and 1 to 2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce.
• Herbed tofu fries: Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence before cooking. Toss with minced fresh parsley, dill, and/or scallions right before serving.
• Cornmeal-crusted tofu fries: Replace the nutritional yeast with coarsely ground yellow cornmeal for an extra crunchy coating.
• Peanut-crusted tofu fries: Replace the nutritional yeast with powdered peanut butter. Add 1 teaspoon lime zest and ½ teaspoon ground ginger to make it taste like satay!

Tips For Success

Don’t be afraid to dive right in the moment that hunger calls! This is an easy technique that anyone can master on the first try. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to make the process even more enjoyable and effortless.

• Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil. This helps prevent crumbs from falling through the bottom and allows for instant cleanup. Just toss it when you’re done cooking!
• If using firm tofu, take a few minutes to press it for a better texture. Super firm has a perfectly dense interior for this recipe, but medium firm tofu is a bit softer. While it still works brilliantly straight out of the package, you’ll get a more satisfying bite if you can extract some of the excess water.
• Blot tofu dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispy food, so you’ll get better results if you take the time to wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove any water still on the surface.

Dips & Sauces for Your Tofu Fries

Half the fun of eating fries is having a complimentary side to dunk and dip to your heart’s content! Any sauce or condiment you like is fair game here, but here are my top picks:

• Marinara
• Vegan Cheese Dip
• Hummus
• Artichoke dip
• Caramelized onion dip
• Vegan Ranch
• BBQ sauce
• Ketchup & Mustard
• Sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce)

FAQs About Tofu Fries

More Vegan Air Fryer Recipes To Try

If you’re hungry for more plant-based air fryer recipes, we have a whole collection that have been tried-and-tested and are well loved. Here are just a few of our favorites. They are all vegetarian, egg-free, and dairy-free as well!

• Air Fryer Tofu Cubes
• Chipotle Corn Ribs
• Air Fryer Broccoli
• Herbed Air Fryer Kabocha Squash
• Air Fryer Home Fries
• Ultimate Air Fryer Sandwich

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Crispy Tofu Fries (in the Air Fryer)

French fries made from tofu? Oh yes! These protein-filled plant-powered tofu fries are all the best of classic fries, plus so much more. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and crusted with a crispy savory nutritional yeast coasting. Get your air fryer ready, because once you try these, you'll be making them a lot.

Course Appetizer, Appetizer or Snack, Snack

Cuisine Amercan

Keyword air fryer tofu, easy fries

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

• 1 block tofu super-firm or extra-firm (the kind in a vacuum-sealed package)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast

Instructions

• Open and drain the block of super-firm (or extra-firm) tofu and pat dry with a towel. Using a sharp knife, slice into fry shapes (see video for instructions). Place tofu fries in a mixing bowl.
• Sprinkle on the salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and toasted sesame oil and mix until evenly coated.
• Add corn starch and mix until evenly coated.
• Add nutritional yeast and gently mix until all tofu is fully and evenly coated. It's okay if there are some loose nutritional yeast flakes at the bottom of the bowl.
• In an air fryer basket, spread tofu fries evenly in a single layer (not touching) and cook for 20 minutes at 390° F, pausing to shake the fries twice during this time. Note: every air fryer is a little different—some require preheating, others don't—so keep a close eye to get your perfect fry.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Video

Notes

These air fryer tofu fries are best enjoyed fresh, soon after making them. If you have leftovers, store in an air-tight container and reheat in the air fryer again when you’re ready to enjoy them! 

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 299mg | Potassium: 68mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 75IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 126mg | Iron: 1mg

Recipe by Michelle Cehn and food photos by Kaylie Grace. Happy air frying!

The post Crispy Tofu Fries (in the Air Fryer) appeared first on World of Vegan.

You know what goes great with vegan home fries? Everything! Woo! Make a batch of these crisp on-the-outside, pillowy soft on-the-side potatoes and serve them with pretty much anything you love. Our favorite Bring On the Sunshine breakfast combo includes: tofu scramble, fresh fruit salad, cinnamon-encrusted crumb muffins, and a batch of these sensational, savory home fries. Serve this mouthwatering menu to your family to show them all the love!

Find your air fryer, pull out a bag of potatoes, arm yourself with an onion, and let’s get cooking!

Why These Homemade Home Fries are So Awesome

• Best breakfast side
• Savory and satisfying
• Only a few ingredients needed
• Easy to prep ahead of time
• Gluten-free
• Soy-free
• Dairy-free
• Nut-free

How To Make This Home Fries Recipe

This air fryer home fries recipe is pretty foolproof. It’s simply a matter of preheating, chopping, and cooking before you can dig into this downright delicious side. If you’ve got an air fryer, a knife, a cutting board, and some basic seasonings, you’re good to go. Keep in mind that these air fried potatoes are best served immediately, but you can easily reheat them in the air fryer if needed.

• Prep and steam the potatoes.
• Preheat the air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
• Cut potatoes and onions into equally sized chunks.
• Mix veggies with seasonings and add to the preheated air fryer basket.
• Cook for 8 minutes, stir, and finish cooking for another 6-8 minutes.
• Enjoy!

Star Ingredients

Even though there are only a couple of ingredients in this recipe, both of them are nutrient dense superstars! Potatoes and onions are inexpensive, easy to find, and chock full of vitamins and minerals. You can mix it up by changing the type of potato that you use (try red, white, yellow, russets, purple, and even sweet potatoes) to create different flavors and textures. Feel free to swap out the red onion for a yellow or white onion…even a shallot would work if cut into chunks.

Potato – Low calorie density, high in fiber, and also protein. Packed with vitamins C, B6, folate, potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and niacin. Simple and satisfying!

Red Onion – High in antioxidants (particularly quercetin), full of prebiotics, and antibacterial, with a fair amount of vitamins B6 & C, manganese, biotin, and copper. Tasty and tangy!

Suggestions for Serving Up Your Home Fries in the Air Fryer

This delightful home fries recipe is appetizing on its own (we’ve been guilty of eating the entire batch by ourselves!) or serving alongside a favorite breakfast dish like waffles, maple french toast, tofu scramble, or even with mouthwatering blueberry muffins fresh out of the oven. Here are a few other ideas to keep in mind:

• Spice: Naughty or Nice? – For those who are sensitive to spices, feel free to stick with only salt and pepper or make them without any spice at all. If you are looking for even more flavor, double the amounts of the seasonings on the potatoes before cooking. Consider adding in dried herbs (like oregano, rosemary, or thyme) and possibly cayenne, cumin, or nutritional yeast to the mix.
• Prep Your Potatoes –  If you want to save a bunch of time making these potatoes on the day you’re going to serve them, you can steam your potatoes 1-2 days ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator. Take them out about 30 minutes before you want to cook them, so there’s time for them to come to room temperature before chopping them up.
• Not an Onion Lover? – No problem. You can leave them out of the recipe or, instead, add in chopped green or red bell pepper, mushrooms, or sprinkle on some rosemary after turning the potatoes.
• Select a Sauce – This, of course, is personal preference, but we love ketchup or barbecue sauce as a side (or smothered on top!) of our home fries. Other tasty choices include: maple syrup, hot sauce, salsa, vegan mayo, or even salad dressing.

Can I Make These Oven Baked Home Fries Instead?

Sure thing! We used an air fryer for this recipe to save time and add an extra crunch, but you can definitely use the oven instead.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and, while the oven is heating up, steam your potatoes (or do this the night before), and cut into chunks when cool.

Add the oil, seasonings, and onion. Mix well. Spread onto a parchment lined (or silicone) baking sheet and cook for 35-45 minutes or until desired crispiness. Turn halfway through cooking. Steaming your potatoes beforehand allows your home fries to be soft in the inside while perfectly crispy on the outside.

How to Store Leftover Home Fries

You can easily store any remaining breakfast fries in the freezer. If possible, place them in a single layer inside of a freezer-safe container or silicone storage bag. Make sure they are sealed tightly.

The leftover potatoes should last up to 3 months in the freezer. To defrost the frozen home fries, arrange them in a single layer in a preheated air fryer basket and cook at 400 degrees for 5-8 minutes or until desired crispiness.

More Brilliant Breakfast Recipes

• Vegan Crumpets
• Carrot Bacon
• Hash Brown Waffles
• Easy Lemon Custard
• Vegan Poptarts
• Vegan Chicken and Waffles
• Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes
• Crispy Tofu Fries

Recipe FAQs

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Air Fryer Home Fries {Golden and Crispy}

Boost your weekend brunch satisfaction with these heavenly golden and crispy air fryer home fries! Pillowy soft on the inside and a delightful crunch on the outside. Perfect to serve alongside your tasty tofu scramble or to pair with a savory slice of avocado toast. Perfection!

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, brunch, dairy-free, gluten free, potatoes, sugar-free

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 162kcal

Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds baby potatoes or 2 large potatoes
• 1 small red onion
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika sweet, smoked, or regular
• ¼ teaspoon salt to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Wash and scrub the potatoes. 
• Steam potatoes in the microwave (all baby ones together or 1 large on high for 5 minutes), in a pot with a steamer basket (add 1 inch of water, add potatoes to basket, cover, bring to a boil, and let steam for about 10 minutes) or in the Instant Pot (5 minutes on high pressure followed by a natural release). 
• Let the potatoes cool for about 5 minutes before cutting. 
• While you’re waiting for the potatoes to cool down, remove the outside onion skin and roughly dice the onions. Place into a mixing bowl. 
• Preheat the air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes. 
• While the air fryer is heating up and when potatoes are cooled, cut the potatoes into medium-sized chunks. 
• Add the potatoes to the onions in the mixing bowl, mix in the olive oil and spices. 
• Add the potatoes and onions to the air fryer basket in a single layer, if possible, and cook at 400 degrees for 8 minutes. 
• Stir the potatoes and onions and cook at the same temperature for another 6-8 minutes, or until desired crispiness.

Notes

• Oil-free Version – You can completely eliminate the oil if you wish or just give a couple of spritzes of oil spray on the uncooked home fries instead. 
• Spice-Sensitive – You can stick with only salt and pepper or make them without any spice at all and add your own toppings when the home fries are cooked. 
• Prep Your Potatoes – If you want to save a bunch of time making these potatoes on the day you’re going to serve them, you can steam your potatoes 1-2 days ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator. Take them out about 30 minutes before you want to cook them, so there’s time for them to come to room temperature before chopping them up. 
• Not an Onion Lover? – No problem. You can leave them out of the recipe or, instead, add in chopped green or red bell pepper, mushrooms, or sprinkle on some rosemary after turning the potatoes.
• Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free

Nutrition

Calories: 162kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 157mg | Potassium: 778mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 251IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 2mg

Thank you to our recipe testers for these homestyle fries, Kristen Sinch, Anandee Seshradi and Melanie Swanson!

This home fries in air fryer recipe was developed and written by Gina House and edited by Rachel Lessenden. This cottage fries content is copyright of World of Vegan, all rights reserved. Photos by J.J. Steele.

The post Air Fryer Home Fries {Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free} appeared first on World of Vegan.

Pick your favorite brand (we love the Alexia Sweet Potato Fries) and follow the instructions below to get the perfect crispy sweet potato fries (or sweet potato wedges) every time. Delicious vegan air fryer side dish, here you come!

All you need to do to satisfy your crunchy fry cravings is to buy a bag of frozen sweet potato fries, season, and add them to the air fryer. So simple, so easy. A mountain of mouthwatering snacks will be done in merely minutes, ready for munching.

They’re excellent to eat by all by themselves, dabbed into delightful dips, or as a side to vegan burgers, bean salads, or even plant-based burritos. Guys (and gals), we tell you no lies, this recipe gets the prize for being so easy to memorize. For fries, the sky’s the limit!

Why You Need To Make These Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

There’s no need to disguise (or analyze) your love of fabulously crispy fries. These succulent veggie strips with a golden crust and pillowy soft insides are just divine. Once you try our frozen sweet potato fries recipe, there will be cries of delight, as well as deliciousness.

There are so many reasons why we think you’d love this frozen fries recipe. Here is a short list, but we think you get the picture. Time flies when you’re enjoying sweet potato fries!

• Quick and easy
• Downright delicious
• Good portion of vitamins, minerals, and fiber
• Fun, spur-of-the-moment snack
• Gluten-free
• Dairy-free
• Sugar-free
• Nut-free

Star Ingredient – The Sincere Sweet Potato

Though we think of sweet potatoes as being part of the potato family, they’re actual the sweet roots of the morning glory family. Isn’t that weird and wonderful? A yam, on the other hand, is just like an everyday potato (or vegetable tuber). Today, we’re setting our sights on the simple sweet potato.

A single sweet potatoes offers:

• High in Vitamin A
• Rich in vitamins B and C
• Loaded with minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc
• Great amount of fiber (about 4 grams)
• Full of healthy complex carbohydrates
• A small amount of protein (about 2 grams)
• Low in calories

How To Serve Up Your Sweet Potato Fries

Sure, you can eat these scrumptious sweet potato fries right out of the basket, but here are a few ways to enjoy them to add a little more nutrition (and extra flavor). Remember––they’re best eaten hot as soon as they’re done, so plan your potato meals accordingly.

• Make Your Salad More Satisfying – Move over croutons! Adding a serving of sweet potato fries to your salad will give you a crispy component, as well as added fiber and some plant-based fat.
• Savory Sauce Suggestions – If you don’t like sweet or spicy sauces, these sweet potato fries are also delicious dipped in spicy maple mustard (see recipe card for details), creamy dill dressing, ketchup, or vegan ranch or mayo.
• Perfect Lunch Pita – Pack an on-the-go lunch including a pita pocket filled with chopped veggies, greens, hummus, and fries. Wrap in a piece of parchment paper along with a piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, and a bottle of water or herbal tea. Easy and delicious!

Helpful Tip: Add a medium-sized lettuce leaf (romaine works well) to the bottom of your pita before you add any veggies or hummus. This helps to keep the bottom of your pita bread dry so it doesn’t get as wet or disintegrate as quickly.

How Do I Store My Leftover Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries?

We all know how icky and limp fries can get once they’re left out on the counter for a while or after they’ve been in the fridge overnight. Even though it’s tempting to throw any leftover fries away, don’t do it! You can easily reheat these fries in the air fryer.

To reheat french fries (or, in this case, sweet potato fries) in the air fryer, first preheat the oven at 400 degree for 5 minutes. Then, place fries in a single layer into the air fryer basket and cook for around 4 minutes at 350 degrees. If you like them a little less crisp, check them at 3 minutes. If you want them extra crispy, cook for another minute more.

Equipment You’ll Need

You really only need a couple of things for this recipe. Most importantly, the air fryer and your frozen sweet potato fries. The rest is just a big ol’ bonus. Grab your kitchen tools and let’s get cookin’!

• Measuring Spoons
• Large Bowl
• Small Mixing Bowl
• Whisk or Fork (for blending sauce)
• Air Fryer

Frequently Asked Questions

More Salty and Savory Air Fryer Sides to Try:

• Spaghetti Squash in the Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Broccoli
• Herbed Air Fryer Kabocha Squash
• Chipotle Corn Ribs
• Nooch Air Fryer Tofu Cubes
• Ultimate Thanksgiving Sandwich in the Air Fryer
• Best Air Fryer Recipes
• Crispy Tofu Fries

Are Frozen Sweet Potato Fries Healthy?

Good question! The answer is––it depends on how you define healthy. While they are healthier than other junk food like chips, candy, or colas, they are still fried in oil before freezing. Plus, they usually have additives and preservatives. But, they are preferable over fast food fries.

Sometimes, you can find a brand that has very few ingredients; such as only sweet potatoes, salt, and oil. If you can find a brand like that, even better. For the healthiest alternative, try our air fryer sweet potato fries recipe which uses fresh instead of frozen sweet potatoes.

If you try this sweet potato fries air fryer frozen recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

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Frozen Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer {with Spicy Maple Mustard Sauce}

These frozen sweet potato fries are incredibly fast and flavorful! This recipe shows you how to make the perfect sweet potato fries in an air fryer. The outside is satisfyingly crisp, while the inside is soft and fluffy. You’ll find this spicy air fryer snack really fun to make and even more fun to eat. Keep them plain for spice up your fries with the optional additions we list in the recipe!

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword air-fried sweet potatoes, sweet potato fries

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 61kcal

Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 or ½ bag frozen sweet potato fries I used the Alexa brand, but the 356 Whole Foods brand is very good, too.
• Optional: Spray Oil I used avocado oil
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you like spicy fries
• Optional: ½ teaspoon black pepper if you like peppery fries

Spicy Maple Mustard Sauce Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
• Squirt of sriracha or hot chili paste optional

Instructions

• If your air fryer requires preheating, preheat the air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
• OPTIONAL: If you’d like to add spices, add frozen fries to a large bowl and spritz with a little bit of spray oil. Stir. Sprinkle on the black and/or cayenne pepper and mix. If you prefer plain fries, skip this step.
• When the air fryer is ready, dump half the bag of frozen sweet potato fries (or however many will fit) into the air fryer basket, arranging the fries to lay flat leaving some room for the air to move around them.
• Cook at 400 degrees for 8 minutes. Shake or flip the fries over and cook for another 7 minutes at the same temperature.
• While they’re cooking, make the Spicy Mustard sauce. In a small bowl, mix all of ingredients together. Whisk until well blended. Put aside for later.
• Serve your seasoned fries along with the Spicy Mustard Sauce or dip of choice. Enjoy while hot.

Notes

• Cooking Time – Because some air fryers are different, it might take you a little more or less than 15 minutes for the fries to be done. Check on the fries halfway to see how they’re doing. When golden brown and crispy, it’s time to take them out.
• These air fryer sweet potato fries are vegetarian, dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, plant-based, and totally delicious! 

Nutrition

Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 85mg | Potassium: 65mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 111IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 0.2mg

Alright friends. Now do you know how to make the most perfect frozen sweet potato fries in the air fryer? The air fryer is key to the quick, crispy finish! This article was written by Gina House. Frozen sweet potato fries in air fryer photography by JJ Steele. Edited by Amanda Meth and Michelle Cehn. Please note that this article may contain affiliate links which supports our work at World of Vegan.

The post Frozen Sweet Potato Fries In the Air Fryer {with Spicy Maple Mustard Sauce} appeared first on World of Vegan.

Free of excess fat, dairy, and all animal products, these fantastic, flavorful zucchini fries cannot be beat. It’s time to treat yourself to this alluring new appetizer that is purely plant-based and worth every moment of preparation. You can even make up a batch in advance, store them in a sealed container, and air fry the next day.

Raise your hand if you’re ready to put down that martini and air fry some zucchini!

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Air Fryer Recipe

Air fryer zucchini is where it’s at, if you’re lucky to own one of these super helpful cooking machines. Once you give this recipe a try, you’ll be completely hooked and a lot less hungry.

• A great substitute for mozzarella sticks, only healthy!
• Savory and delicious snack

Plus, it’s…

• Low calorie and low carb
• Plant-based and vegetarian
• Dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free
• Sugar-free

Star Ingredient – The Zestful Zucchini

This summer garden staple is not only easy to grow, but it’s also pretty prolific. When you have tons of extra zucchini that even zoodles cannot cover, consider preparing zucchini in the air fryer. Here are all of the reasons why we love zucchini zo much.

• Cholesterol-free
• Low sodium
• Fat-free
• Low calorie
• Low carb
• Great source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, B6, and potassium

How To Serve Up Your Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks

Fried zucchini in the air fryer will soon become one of your favorite appetizers or snacks when family and friends come to visit. You can dazzle them with the magic of vegan zucchini fries. Feel free to vary the recipe to your own taste by making a few culinary adjustments. Here are a few appetizing approaches:

• Cinnamon Sugar Sticks – Make the tastiest sweet treat by substituting the cornstarch in the flour mixture for powdered cane sugar and eliminating the spices. Add 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to the breadcrumbs and follow the same cooking instructions. You’ll have mini cinnamon sticks in no time! Serve with coconut whipped cream, dairy-free ice cream, or drizzle with a warmed, vegan-friendly icing or cream sauce. Superb!
• Savory Sauce Suggestions – These fries are very similar to mozzarella sticks in both texture and flavor. We recommend serving them with a sweet, thick marinara sauce, creamy dill dressing, vegan mayo, cheese dip, hot sauce, hummus, or spicy ketchup.
• Bulk Up A Burger – Swap out sweet potato fries for fried zucchini in the the air fryer for a savory side. Our barbecue black bean burger or vegan pizza burger would make the perfect pairing!

How Do You Cut Zucchini For French Fries?

To create the right shape for making air fryer zucchini, the key is to pay attention to the thickness. Less than ½” seems to work the best. Any thicker and the zucchini is too juicy and not crisp enough, while a thinner slice creates a tough texture that no longer resembles a plant-based mozzarella stick.

For zucchini chips, simply slice the zucchini into rounds that are approximately ⅜” thick. If you’d rather have zucchini sticks (or zucchini fries), slice the zucchini in half from top to bottom lengthwise and then in half again. Do this twice more until you have the correct thickness. Finally, cut the lengths in halves (or thirds, if you have a long pieces) so that the pieces are around 2″ long.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fried Zucchini

More Satisfying and Simple Vegan Air Fryer Recipes to Try

• Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
• Chipotle Air Fryer Corn Ribs
• Easy Air Fryer Broccoli
• Frozen Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer
• Herbed Vegan Air Fryer Kabocha Squash
• Nutritional Yeast Encrusted Air Fryer Tofu Cubes
• Ultimate Thanksgiving Sandwich in the Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Tempeh

If you have suggestions for more air fryer recipes, let us know! Make sure to check out our round-up of the best vegan air fryer recipes from all over the internet! If you’re not sure what to make in your air fryer, no need to fuss or fret. Your constantly cooking vegan food bloggers have got you covered!

Equipment You’ll Need To Make Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Although it may seem like there’s a lot to collect to create this recipe, it’s actually pretty simple once you have them assembled. Just measure out your ingredients and set out a station with three bowls, three forks, and your veggie pieces. Whether you’re aiming to make air fryer zucchini chips, zucchini sticks, or courgette fries (another name for zucchini), they’ll all come out amazing in the air fryer.

• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Sharp Knife
• Vegetable Peeler
• Air Fryer

Storing Leftover Breaded Zucchini Fries

These zucchini fries in an air fryer are best when eaten fresh right out of the air fryer basket. If you have eaten your fill and just can’t squeeze in any more, you can save them. Our suggestion is to store them in an air-tight container on top of a piece of paper towel or cloth. When you’re ready to give them another go, place them in a pre-heated air fryer (or oven) at 400 degrees for about 5 minutes. Check on them at about the 3 minute mark. Not recommended for freezing.

Are Restaurant Zucchini Fries Usually Vegan?

Zucchini fries are a rarity on restaurant menus, and sadly, when you see them they are typically not vegan. Red Robin makes zucchini fries, and helped popularize the concept, but sadly theirs are not vegan. That’s why making your own at home is such an easy and fun treat!

Are Red Robin Zucchini Fries Vegan?

These zucchini sticks are not cooked in an air fryer, but deep fried. They’re also not vegan because the batter contains both eggs and milk. In this recipe, we’re not only cutting down on the fat content by air frying, but we swapped out the eggs for a flax egg and eliminated the milk. Though, you could use dairy-free milk, if desired.

If you try this vegan air fryer zucchini chips recipe, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

These crispy air fryer zucchini fries are crispy and actually healthy! You won’t believe how delicious these zucchini fries can be until you’ve made them in the air fryer. The texture is totally spot on. Just like mozzarella sticks, only better! Savory, addictive, and animal-free!

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword air-fried zucchini, zucchini fries, zucchini recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 20 + fries

Calories 30kcal

Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 6 tablespoons water
• ¼ cup cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• ¼ cup flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt or to your taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup dairy-free panko breadcrumbs or ½ cup each panko and plain
• Spray Oil We used avocado, but olive oil would also work.

Instructions

• For this recipe, we are air frying batches of 20. You can keep making more batches or save the rest in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If making the entire batch, make sure to double (or triple) the dry coating ingredients so that you’ll have enough.
• Rinse and peel the zucchini.
• Cut the ends off of the zucchini and slice in half lengthwise into 2 even sections. Slice each section again lengthwise so that you have 4 sections. Cut each of the 4 sections in half lengthwise two more times so that you have a total of 16 thin lengths of zucchini. Cut each of these 16 slices in half widthwise two times so that each of the 16 slices has 4 pieces. 64 pieces total. Each fry should be approximately 2” long and ⅜” thick.
• In a shallow bowl, add in the ground flaxseed and water. Mix well with a fork and set aside for 5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
• Measure out the cornstarch, flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Add to a shallow bowl or high-edged plate. Mix well with a fork. Put aside for now.
• Measure out the breadcrumbs and also place in a shallow bowl. Keep the last fork handy to use with this bowl. Keep each fork with its own mixture for applying the coating.
• Line up the bowls so that you have the flour mixture first, then the flaxseed mixture, and then the breadcrumbs. Place a plate in the fourth spot.
• Place 2-4 fries into the flour mixture, making sure that every side is coated. Using the fork, take the fries out and lower into the flax “egg”. Using a different fork, moisten all sides of each fry with this flaxseed mixture. Lastly, drop each fry into the breadcrumb mixture. Using that fork, cover all sides with breadcrumbs and then place on the plate.
• Once you have all the fries coated, lightly spray with oil. Preheat air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
• Using one of the forks, set the fries slightly apart into the air fryer basket and cook at 400 degrees for around 10 minutes, turning gently (with a fork, not hands) halfway through cooking. (See Cooking Time in Notes section.) Enjoy immediately while still warm.

Notes

• Cooking Time – Because some air fryers are different, it might take you a little more or less than 10 minutes for the fries to be done. Check on the fries halfway to see how they’re doing. When golden brown and crispy, it’s time to take them out.
• Peeling Is Optional – Peeling is not absolutely necessary, but I found that the batter sticks better when the zucchini is peeled. Keep the peel on if you want some extra nutrition and fiber and don’t mind less coating.
• Size Matters – It’s important to keep the fries a uniform shape and size. I found that fries that measure less than ½” cook more evenly and make the fries the perfect consistency when done. Thicker than this and they will need a few minutes more frying time.

Nutrition

Calories: 30kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 167mg | Potassium: 42mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.5g | Vitamin A: 31IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.3mg

This article about zucchini chips in an air fryer was written by Gina House. Zucchini in air fryer photography by JJ Steele. Edited by Michelle Cehn. Please note that this article may contain affiliate links which supports our work at World of Vegan.

The post Air Fryer Zucchini Fries appeared first on World of Vegan.

Every 90s kid undoubtedly has fond memories of defrosting Bagel Bites (mini pizza bagels) from when they were young. Bursting through the door after a school day, ravenous and impatient, nothing would satisfy quite like having pizza on demand. A few seconds in the microwave was all that separated us from instant comfort food gratification.

As much a cultural phenomenon as basic snack food, these humble frozen staples have developed a cult following over the years. Songs have been written as tributes to their greatness, endless imposters have sprung up to capitalize on the viral trend, and most importantly, crafty home cooks have figured out how to reverse engineer the concept to make at home, from scratch.

The original pizza bites are far from vegan, but that doesn’t mean we have to go hungry until dinner! It’s a snap to make homemade mini bagel pizzas with higher quality ingredients, better nutrition, and all that for much less money. If you’ve missed these savory snacks from your childhood, here’s the secret to reviving them for your kids, or kids-at-heart!

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Bagel Bites

The attraction of anything remotely pizza-flavored is an obvious, easy win. Even the pickiest of eaters will gobble up this combination of crispy, chewy bagels piled high with savory red sauce, gooey dairy-free cheese, and any meatless proteins your heart desires. Beyond that, there are still so many more reasons why you’ll want to save this vegan bagel bites recipe to make again and again.

• Super simple: You only need four ingredients to make an amazing snack! We’re not talking about anything crazy or hard to find, either. There’s a good chance you already have what you need close at hand.
• Adaptable for all diets: Since these bagel bites are vegan, that makes them eggless and dairy-free by default. Choose gluten-free mini bagels or toast to make them suitable for those with celiac disease and double-check labels to find soy-free options to accommodate those with soy sensitivities.
• Perfect to prep in advance: Just like the original inspiration, these are fantastic to make ahead, freeze, and defrost whenever cravings strike!
• Good source of protein: Pick your favorite plant-based meat substitutes to add a boost of protein power into every bite. Beefy crumbles are the easiest to distribute evenly, but vegan pepperoni slices, sausage crumbles, diced meatballs, or even bacon bits are all great choices.
• Kids can make their own: Get the kids involved for this easy treat! They’ll find it even more satisfying when they can make their own savory creations. All you need to do is supervise to heating process for especially young children.

Key Ingredients In These Homemade Bagel Bites

Although there are only four primary ingredients needed to make your mini bagel masterpieces, you could even pare that down to three, for a plain cheese version.

Mini Bagels:

You should be able to find big bags of mini bagels right alongside the full-sized version in your typical grocery store. Thomas’ makes a great option that’s “accidentally” vegan, as does Target’s store brand, Favorite Day.

Pizza Sauce

Thick, rich, and heavily seasoned with herbs and spices, pizza sauce packs a punch of flavor into every drop! In a pinch, you can substitute your favorite marinara or pasta sauce instead, but it might be a bit waterier.

Dairy-Free Shredded Cheese

Simple mozzarella is classic for pizza, but there’s no wrong way to make things cheesy. The most popular brands are Daiya, Follow Your Heart, and Violife.

Vegetarian Beefy Crumbles

These meat “alternatives” are so good, they should be your first choice! Our favorite brand is Urban Accents since it’s both shelf-stable and ready to eat. Visit your local freezer aisle for tons of other brands, including Beyond Meat, Gardein, and so much more.

Flavor Variations and Fresh Ideas for Customizing Your Mini Pizza Bagels

The real beauty of this recipe is that it’s more like a guideline that exacting formula. Take those ratios and swap in different ingredients for a completely different flavor adventure every time!

• Instead of mini bagels, try: quartered pieces of toast, mini pita pockets, naan dippers, or small flour or corn tortillas.
• Instead of pizza sauce, try: vegan pesto, alfredo sauce, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or buffalo sauce.
• Instead of shredded cheese, try: nutritional yeast, cashew queso, vegan sour cream, or a drizzle of tahini.
• Instead of beefy crumbles, try: crushed crunchy chickpeas, chopped up veggie burgers, shredded deli slices, or even diced veggie dogs.

In addition, feel free to sneak in a serving of veggies with any of your favorites: chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, diced onions, sliced olives, and anything else you’d enjoy on a traditional slice of pizza! Also check out our Vegan Bagel Guide for more bagel recipes and inspiration.

How to Cook Your Pizza Bagel Bites

If you don’t have a full-sized oven or simply want an approach that’s a bit more kid-friendly, we’ve got you covered. No matter what equipment you have in the kitchen, you can enjoy a hot plate of cheesy bagel bites in no time!

• Convection oven: Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.
• Air fryer: Cook at 370 degrees for 8 – 10 minutes
• Microwave: Heat at full power for 2 – 3 minutes.

Air Fryer Bagel Bites? Oh Yes!

If you have an air fryer, you’ve gotta try cooking these up in the air fryer! Air fryer bagel bites have that extra satisfying crunch and cook in less time than the oven.

The key is to cook just until the cheese has melted. It won’t brown in the microwave, so err on the side of caution. You can always put them back in for another round if they’re not warm enough yet.

How to Keep Leftovers, Freeze Your Bagel Bites, or Prep in Advance

Let’s be honest: It’s unlikely you’ll have leftovers even if you double the recipe. If you’d like to prepare your bagel bites in advance so you can just heat and eat, though, that’s just as easy!

1. Fully cook the mini bagel bites according to the recipe and let cool completely.
2. Store in an airtight container lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not on top of each other. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
3. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in an air fryer at 370 degrees for 3 – 5 minutes, microwave for 2 – 3 minutes, or oven preheated to 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Frozen bagel bites are a perfect treat to keep on hand for the kiddos.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups

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Vegan Bagel Bites (Pizza Bagels) — Easy Vegan Kids Snack Recipe {Freezer-Friendly}

Who doesn't love a mini pizza bagel? These super-easy vegan bagel bites are fun to make and loved by kids. With just a few ingredients you can whip these up in no time. Plus, these pizza bagels are freezer-friendly, making them great for vegan meal prep, kids vegan lunches, and beyond.

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword easy vegan snacks for kids, freezer-friendly vegan recipe, kid-friendly vegan snack, vegan bagel bites recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 20 Bagel Bites

Calories 101kcal

Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Ingredients

• 10 Mini Bagels
• 14 ounces pizza sauce marinara or pasta sauce will work too if you don't have pizza sauce
• 1 cup vegan shredded cheese
• 1/2 pound vegan beefy crumbles any brand cooked according to package instruction (I used Plant Boss)
• Garnish with your choice of parsley chives, oregano, or basil)

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Prepare the meatless crumbles according to package instructions, adding 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce to the crumbles while they're cooking. Feel free to add additional spices, garlic, or onion to the pan at this time if you'd like a more complex meaty topping.
• Assemble bagel pizzas. Cut all bagels in half and on each half, spread on a generous dollop of pizza sauce, sprinkle on vegan cheese, and top with your cooked vegan meaty crumbles.
• Assemble on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until the vegan cheese is melted. If cheese is not melted, broil for additional minute or two.
• Top with green garnish and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 101kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 327mg | Potassium: 118mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 88IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

More Tasty Vegan Pizza Recipes

• Vegan Pizza Rolls
• Rainbow Pizza
• Valentine’s Day Vegan Pizza
• Vegan Matzah Pizza
• Vegan Pizza Burger
• Crunchy Vegan Pizza Bites

This vegan bagel bites recipe and article was photographed by Michelle Cehn and written with support from Hannah Kaminsky. Please note that this article contains affiliate links that support our work at World of Vegan. Happy cooking!

The post Vegan Bagel Bites {Air Fryer & Freezer-Friendly} appeared first on World of Vegan.