Guide to the Ultimate Meat-Free Barbecue

More people than ever are choosing to follow a meat-free diet, which is great news for the environment. However, going vegetarian, vegan, or simply trying to reduce the amount of meat you’re consuming doesn’t mean that you have to go without many of your favourite meals.

The barbecue has long been a way of getting family and friends together to enjoy each other’s company and some great tasting food. Barbecues may have traditionally featured a smorgasbord of beef, chicken, and fish, but our evolving diets have certainly changed what you can expect to be served at such a get-together. 

Meat-free hamburgers and sausages are an ever-growing market. These products may have once been dry, flavourless, and unappetizing, but now, nothing could be further from the truth — particularly when paired with Australian tomato sauce. 

This is great news for both vegetarians and those looking to throw an all-inclusive barbecue. If you are planning a get together with close friends and family and you know that some of them prefer not to eat meat, keep reading to discover top tips and tricks on hosting the ultimate meat-free barbecue.

Nothing is more important at a barbecue than the food. When putting together your ultimate barbecue, there are a few food elements to consider:

Let’s start with the meat (and meat-free products). The two classic dishes that make up a barbecue are sausages and hamburgers. Alongside these, you might also want to serve chicken wings, kebabs, and fish.

In terms of meat-free products, both sausages and hamburgers can be easily found at your local supermarket. Instead of chicken wings, why not marinade some cauliflower in a buffalo style sauce? There are also many different types of battered meat-free fish available.

Your choice in vegetables is where your meat-free barbecue is really going to shine. When we think of vegetables, what comes to mind is often completely unappetising — some dried up beans and carrots, pushed to the side of the plate.

In reality, vegetables come in an incredible variety of flavours and textures. Marinating and grilling zucchini, mushrooms, capsicum, and eggplant on the barbecue will completely transform the way that you (and your guests) think of vegetables.

Sides is where you can let your imagination run wild. Salads are always a good choice at a barbecue (particularly if your guests are meat-free!) but there are so many other options that are often overlooked. Barbecued corn on the cob tastes delicious and goes well with other grilled vegetables. Pull-apart bread loaded with cheese and herbs is always a crowd favourite. And sliced fruit is an excellent option on a hot summer's day.

What is a barbecue without condiments?

Now, if your guests are predominantly vegetarian and vegan, it’s important that you check that all of your sauces and dressings are meat free. They most likely will be, but pay particular attention to gravy and barbecue sauce. 

Australian tomato sauce is a must have and is an excellent way of bringing some added flavour and moisture to meat-free products. 

Don’t let your guests go thirsty! Provide a range of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to keep everyone happy and hydrated.

Given that there are so many meat-free products out there, how can you be sure that you’re buying food your guests will enjoy? This is a common problem, particularly as meat-free meat can sometimes be dry and lack flavour.

● Make sure it has protein: Traditionally, red and white meat are our best sources of protein. This is why vegetarians and vegans often struggle to get enough of this energy-giving nutrient in their diet. Check the nutritional content of your meat-alternative carefully and make sure it contains at least some protein.

● Decide — fresh or frozen: For a long time, meat alternatives were only available in frozen form. We’ve come a long way over the past few years and you can now buy fresh meat-free hamburgers and sausages in your local supermarket. Regardless of what you are cooking, it’s always healthier to opt for fresh ingredients over frozen.

● Go natural: There are many vegetables that can be used as a complete substitute to barbecue meat products. Portobello mushrooms, for example, make an excellent hamburger patty. Strips of tofu can be used in place of a hot dog. By opting for natural, whole ingredients, you are reducing the likelihood of serving your guests food that is laden with artificial flavours and preservatives.

There you have it! Top tips for hosting the ultimate meat-free barbecue. Just remember to pick your ingredients carefully, load up on plenty of Australian tomato sauce, and don’t be afraid to go heavy on the vegetables. Your meat-free friends will love you!

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