Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or simply looking for some inspiration for #MeatlessMonday, eating a delicious plant-based diet has never been easier. From cooking techniques to unexpected ingredients, there are all kinds of clever ways to boost the flavor of meatless dishes.
Here are 10 of our favorite tips and tricks for making next-level vegetarian meals:
1. Grill your vegetables just like you would meat. Certain vegetables including cauliflower, eggplant, and onions really lend themselves to grilling. You just need to follow a few simple tips for grilled veggie perfection. For a sweet and savory main dish, try this grilled Orange Glazed Broccoli & Cauliflower.
2. Tofu is your friend. Think tofu is bland and boring? Think again. This vegetarian staple is super versatile and full of protein. Try experimenting with different types of tofu, from soft silken tofu for smoothies and desserts to firm or dried tofu for stir frys and other savory dishes. Give it a try with this Grilled Teriyaki Tofu.
3. Learn how to make your own nut milk. Sure, store bought is fine but it’s fun to experiment with making your own nut milk, such as this this creamy almond milk, which will add creaminess to soups, pasta sauce, and desserts.
4. Load up on herbs and spices. Ginger, turmeric, garlic, basil, cilantro, mint and other herbs and spices not only taste great, they come with lots of health benefits and are packed with vitamins and minerals. This Spicy Garlic Portabella Burger from the Mushroom Council will be a hit at your next cookout!
5. Slow roast vegetables. Cooking vegetables on a low heat removes a lot of their water content, builds depth and intensifies their flavor, just like the tomatoes in this Roasted Vegetable Salad with Honey Dressing.
6. Pair fiber- and protein-rich beans and lentils with flavorful vegetables, like this White Bean Salad with Asparagus & Artichokes. Beans and lentils are not only good for you, they’re also budget friendly and great to keep in the pantry for quick, nutritious meals.
7. Don’t be afraid of good fats. By adding olive oil or a little butter to vegetables, you’ll amp up the flavor without sacrificing nutrition. Try this tasty Grilled Corn with Barbecue Butter.
8. Sauté aromatics like garlic, onions, ginger, and celery first and then add spices. Cook the spices for a few minutes before adding other ingredients to really bring out the flavor.
9. Experiment with miso (fermented soybean paste), to add umami to soups, sauces, and savory dishes. White miso is mild, while red miso is known to be pretty intense. Learn how to use it here.
10. Add smoky flavor without the bacon. The grill or home smoker is where it’s at when it comes to infusing vegetables and meat-free proteins with smoky goodness. You can also choose to opt for liquid smoke in moderation, or use ingredients such as nutritional yeast, toasted sesame seeds, and chipotle peppers, which can impart a bit of smokiness into recipes.
