Vegan BBQ Brisket

A close up of some meat on the grill

Creating a vegan BBQ brisket involves using plant-based ingredients to replicate the flavors and textures typically associated with traditional brisket. Here’s a recipe along with some potential health benefits of the main ingredients:

Ingredients:

For the Seitan Brisket:
  • 2 cups vital wheat gluten
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 c chickpea flour
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 t cumin
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
  • 1 T dark brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 T soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free)
  • 1 T vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • black pepper
For the BBQ Sauce:
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 T dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 t chili powder
  • 1/4 c molasses
  • 1 T minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 fresh bay leaves
For Roasting and Rub:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Mama Vega Hillbilly Spice Rub

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Seitan Brisket:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, chickpea flour, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder.
    • In a separate bowl, mix vegetable broth and liquid smoke. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and knead until a firm dough forms.
    • Shape the dough into a brisket-like form.
  2. Cook the Seitan Brisket:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the seitan brisket on all sides until browned.
    • Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are softened.
    • Mix vegetable broth with the BBQ sauce ingredients and pour it over the seitan brisket.
    • Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is crisp with a crust.
    • Flip and brush with the liquid.
    • Bake for another 20-25 minutes.
    • Check every 5-10 minutes and baste with the liquid as needed until the seitan is firm for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours.
  3. Rub and Sauce:
    • Remove the seitan from the pan and cover with Mama Vega Hillbilly Spice Rub.
    • Cover with BBQ sauce.
  4. Serve:
    • Allow the vegan BBQ brisket to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, fresh fruit, a green salad with water vegetables, and a root vegetable.

Health Benefits:

  1. Seitan (Vital Wheat Gluten):
    • High in protein, making it a good meat substitute.
    • Contains essential amino acids necessary for muscle health.
  2. Nutritional Yeast:
    • Rich in B vitamins, including B12, which is essential for energy production.
    • Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
  3. Tomato Sauce:
    • Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that may contribute to heart health.
    • Contains vitamins C and A.
  4. Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar:
    • Natural sweeteners that provide a sweet taste without refined sugars.
    • Contains some antioxidants and minerals.
  5. Apple Cider Vinegar:
    • May help with digestion and weight management.
    • Contains acetic acid, which has potential antimicrobial properties.
  6. Soy Sauce or Tamari:
    • Adds umami flavor to the dish.
    • Provides a source of plant-based protein.
  7. Liquid Smoke:
    • Enhances the smoky flavor of the dish without the need for actual smoking.
    • Used in moderation, liquid smoke is a low-calorie flavoring.
  8. Onion and Garlic:
    • Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
    • May have cardiovascular benefits and support the immune system.
  9. Olive Oil:
    • High in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
    • Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

This vegan BBQ brisket recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional meat-based brisket while providing a good source of plant-based protein and essential nutrients. As with any recipe, individual dietary needs may vary, so adjust ingredients based on personal preferences. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.

Author

  • Charmene M. Vega

    Charmène Vega, widely known as Mama Vega, is a powerhouse of creativity and expertise, seamlessly blending her rich background in education, nutrition, and public relations into a dynamic career as an author and advocate for optimal health. Before founding Mama Vega Enterprises, Charmène honed her skills as a High School English teacher, where her passion for language and storytelling took root. This foundation has propelled her into a literary journey that captivates and empowers readers. Charmène's writing credentials are impressive, with her contributions featured in The Loop Newspaper in Tehachapi and the prestigious Rogee of Beverly Hills magazine. She has co-authored two internationally recognized books, "Overcomer Redeemed Masterpiece" and "Mental Wealth Tool-Kit: Tools to Achieve Mental Wellness." Her influence doesn't stop there; she has penned six insightful books available on Amazon, including "I Don't Want the Neighbors to Know" and the "Now Chew On This" series, which covers topics from boosting immunity to optimizing hormones for better health. As a board member of the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary and the Blue Zone Project’s resident nutrition educator, Charmène's impact goes far beyond the written word. Her dedication to teaching, whether through her books or her engaging classes on nutrition, reflects her commitment to transforming lives. Her unique ability to weave together the science of nutrition with the art of storytelling makes her a compelling voice in the world of health and wellness. Charmène Vega is not just an author; she is a beacon of knowledge and empowerment, guiding others toward a healthier, more vibrant life through her words and actions. #mamavega #charmenevega #optimalhealth360 #theloopnewspaper #nowchewonthis #bakersfieldbreakfastrotary #bluezonesprojectbakersfield #bakersfieldca #cityofbakersfield #womenempowerment #mentalhealth #specialeducation #autism

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