When it comes to plant-based cooking, many people think that smoking is off-limits. But fear not! With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create mouth-watering, smoky vegan dishes that will leave even the most dedicated carnivores impressed. In this article, we’ll explore 18 smoky vegan recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
From savory steaks to sweet and tangy glazes, these recipes showcase the incredible diversity of smoky flavors in vegan cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your plant-based journey, you’ll find inspiration and guidance in this collection of delicious and innovative dishes.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of smoky vegan cooking and get ready to rumble!
Smoked Portobello Mushroom Steaks
Transform ordinary portobellos into extraordinary “steaks” with a rich, smoky flavor profile. Perfect for vegetarian or vegan gatherings, these tender and savory bites are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke (hickory or applewood work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth, removing any stems or gills.
3. In a small bowl, mix together liquid smoke, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mushroom caps evenly with the mixture, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the mushrooms on the smoker or grill, leaving space between each “steak”.
6. Smoke or cook for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vegan Smoked BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Satisfy your cravings with this innovative vegan take on classic BBQ sandwiches, featuring tender jackfruit and a tangy smoked sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine (drained and chopped)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (homemade or store-bought)
– Pickle slices, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or oven to 275°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped jackfruit to the bowl and toss until well coated with the BBQ mixture.
4. Place the jackfruit mixture in the smoker or oven for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading a layer of coleslaw on each bun, followed by a generous helping of the smoked jackfruit.
6. Top with pickle slices and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Tofu with Maple Glaze
Elevate your plant-based game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked tofu with a sweet and sticky maple glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to please even the most skeptical palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. Cut the tofu into desired shapes and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Brush the tofu with olive oil and sprinkle with liquid smoke. Smoke for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
5. Remove the tofu from the smoker and brush with the maple glaze.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoked Eggplant Baba Ganoush
Elevate your snack game with this rich and creamy dip, infused with the deep flavor of smoked eggplant. Perfect for veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds and place them in the smoker for 30 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. Remove the eggplant from the smoker and let it cool.
4. Peel the cooled eggplant and scoop out the flesh.
5. In a blender, combine the eggplant, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Stir in the tahini, yogurt, and parsley.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (smoking time: 30 minutes)
Smoked Cauliflower Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Take your snack game to the next level with this unique and delicious twist on traditional chicken wings.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with a temperature control).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Place the cauliflower mixture in the smoker or grill for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
4. Remove from heat and toss with buffalo sauce until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Lentil and Walnut Loaf
This hearty loaf combines the earthy flavors of smoked lentils with the richness of walnuts, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian main course or sandwich filling. With its robust aroma and velvety texture, this recipe is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse lentils and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, smoked paprika, onion, garlic, parsley, oats, walnuts, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Sweet Potato Tacos
Smoked Sweet Potato Tacos: A Twist on Traditional Taco Filling
Sweet potatoes add a deliciously sweet and creamy twist to traditional taco fillings, while the smoky flavor adds depth and complexity. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix up their taco game.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and place them in the smoker for 4-5 hours, or until they’re tender when pierced.
3. Remove the sweet potatoes from the smoker and let them cool slightly.
4. Peel the sweet potatoes and mash them in a bowl with lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add chipotle peppers and stir to combine.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the sweet potato mixture onto tortillas and topping with your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Tempeh Bacon Strips
Transform your meals with the rich flavor of smoked tempeh bacon strips, a game-changing vegan alternative to traditional bacon. These crispy strips are perfect for adding smoky goodness to salads, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into thin strips.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together liquid smoke, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the tempeh strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay out the marinated tempeh strips in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chickpea and Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional skewers, these Smoked Chickpea and Vegetable Skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
• 1 onion, cut into large chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, bell peppers, onion, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the mixture onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place the skewers in the smoker or grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe transforms the humble butternut squash into a rich, velvety soup with a deep, smoky flavor. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and place on a smoker tray. Smoke for 4 hours, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute.
4. Scoop out the cooked butternut squash flesh and add to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until soup has reached desired consistency.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (smoking), 30-40 minutes (cooking)
Smoked Beet and Walnut Salad
This salad combines the earthy sweetness of smoky beets with the crunch of toasted walnuts, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice them into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and honey to make the vinaigrette.
5. In a large bowl, combine the sliced beets, toasted walnuts, and vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (including roasting time)
Smoked Garlic and Herb Cashew Cheese
This creamy cashew cheese is infused with the rich flavors of smoked garlic and a blend of herbs, perfect for spreading on crackers or using as a dip. This recipe is a great vegan alternative to traditional cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon dried dill weed
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse cashews, then add to a blender with lemon juice, smoked garlic powder, salt, black pepper, parsley, and dill weed.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
4. Transfer mixture to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Smoked Carrot Lox with Vegan Cream Cheese
Elevate your bagel game with this innovative recipe that substitutes traditional salmon lox with sweet and smoky carrots. This vegan twist on a classic appetizer or snack is surprisingly addictive!
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese (softened)
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Slice the carrots into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and water. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the carrot slices.
4. Smoke the carrots for at least 30 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of smokiness.
5. In a separate bowl, mix softened vegan cream cheese with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble by spreading a layer of cream cheese on a bagel or cracker, topping with smoked carrot lox, and garnishing with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (smoking time) + preparation time
Smoked Zucchini and Tomato Lasagna
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this innovative lasagna recipe, featuring smoked zucchini and tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz lasagna noodles
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini slices with onion and garlic until tender.
3. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. In a separate saucepan, heat crushed tomatoes over medium-low heat.
5. Layer lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese mixture (ricotta, mozzarella), tomato sauce, and sautéed zucchini in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Black Bean and Corn Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked black beans and corn with a hint of smokiness, perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) smoked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the smoked black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Smoked Coconut Bacon Bits
Transform your snacks game with these addictive Smoked Coconut Bacon Bits! A sweet and savory twist on traditional bacon, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for topping salads, adding crunch to sandwiches, or munching on as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together coconut flakes, brown sugar, smoked paprika, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the crumbled bacon to the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Spiced Nuts Mix
Elevate your snack game with this addictive blend of smoked and spiced nuts, perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the nut mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the nuts are fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Pineapple with Cinnamon Glaze
Elevate your grilled pineapple game by infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor and topping it with a sweet cinnamon glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pineapple wedges.
4. Grill the pineapple for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together melted butter and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
6. Once the pineapple is cooked, brush the cinnamon glaze evenly over each wedge.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 irresistible smoky vegan recipes! From savory dishes like Smoked Portobello Mushroom Steaks and Vegan Smoked BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches, to sweet treats like Smoked Pineapple with Cinnamon Glaze, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in classic comfort foods like Smoked Lentil and Walnut Loaf or Smoked Sweet Potato Tacos, or try new twists on old favorites like Smoked Tempeh Bacon Strips or Smoked Chickpea and Vegetable Skewers. With a range of flavors and textures to explore, these smoky vegan recipes are sure to become instant hits with your family and friends!