Herbs for Vegetarian and Vegan BBQ: Enhancing Plant-Based Grilling

Barbecuing isn’t just for meat lovers. With the right herbs, vegetarian and vegan BBQ dishes can be just as flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re grilling vegetables, tofu, or plant-based burgers, herbs can elevate the taste and add a burst of freshness. Let’s explore some essential herbs commonly used in vegetarian and vegan BBQ, along with tips and recipes to get you started.

Key Herbs for Vegetarian and Vegan BBQ

1. Marjoram:
   • Flavor Profile: Mild, sweet, and slightly floral.
   • Uses: Perfect for grilled vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins. Marjoram adds a gentle, aromatic flavor.
2. Thyme:
   • Flavor Profile: Earthy with minty and lemony notes.
   • Uses: Versatile for all types of grilled vegetables and plant-based dishes. Thyme adds a subtle yet complex taste.
3. Rosemary:
   • Flavor Profile: Piney, slightly peppery, and woody.
   • Uses: Ideal for grilled potatoes, mushrooms, and tofu. Rosemary’s robust flavor stands up well to the high heat of grilling.
4. Basil:
   • Flavor Profile: Sweet, slightly peppery, with hints of mint and clove.
   • Uses: Great for grilled tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant. Basil adds a fresh, aromatic quality to the dishes.
5. Oregano:
   • Flavor Profile: Bold, slightly bitter, and peppery.
   • Uses: Excellent for marinades and rubs for plant-based burgers, seitan, and tempeh. Oregano provides a robust, Mediterranean flavor.

Some great Vegetarian and Vegan BBQ Recipes

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Marjoram

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh marjoram leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Thread the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
2. Season the Skewers:
   • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, chopped marjoram, salt, and pepper. Brush the vegetable skewers with the oil mixture.
3. Grill the Skewers:
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the vegetable skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

Thyme and Garlic Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Mushrooms:
   • Brush the portobello mushrooms with the marinade and let them sit for 15 minutes.
3. Grill the Mushrooms:
   • Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until tender and juicy.

Conclusion:

Using herbs like marjoram, thyme, rosemary, basil, and oregano in your vegetarian and vegan BBQ dishes can add depth and complexity to the flavors. These herbs enhance the taste of plant-based ingredients, making your BBQ meals delicious and satisfying. Experiment with these herbs to create fresh and aromatic vegetarian and vegan BBQ dishes that everyone will love.