Vegetarian Barbecue Ribs

Ingredients

While the original American barbecue ribs are traditionally made with meat, this vegetarian adaptation replaces the meat with plant-based ingredients. The flavors and textures are carefully crafted to mimic the smokiness and tenderness of the original dish, providing a satisfying alternative for those following a vegetarian diet. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) vital wheat gluten 2 cups (470ml) vital wheat gluten
• 1/4 cup (60ml) nutritional yeast 1/4 cup (60ml) nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chickpea flour 1/4 cup (60ml) chickpea flour
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (235ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (235ml) vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons liquid smoke 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, chickpea flour, smoked paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough for 5 minutes to develop the gluten.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a rib-like shape.
6. 6.
   Preheat the grill to medium heat.
7. 7.
   Place the vegetarian ribs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are nicely charred and heated through.
8. 8.
   Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. 9.
   Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Vital wheat gluten — Ensure you use vital wheat gluten, as it is the key ingredient that provides the meaty texture to the ribs.
• Nutritional yeast — This adds a cheesy and umami flavor to the ribs, enhancing their overall taste.
• Liquid smoke — Use liquid smoke sparingly, as it is highly concentrated. Adjust the amount according to your preference for smokiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense smoky flavor, marinate the vegetarian ribs in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before grilling.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also bake the ribs in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Serve the ribs with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables for a complete vegetarian barbecue feast.

Serving advice

Serve the vegetarian barbecue ribs hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Accompany them with your favorite barbecue sides and sauces for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the vegetarian ribs on a platter, drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top, and garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an appetizing presentation.