Vegan Bbq: Are Most Sauces Plant-Based?

BBQ sauce is typically associated with meat, but there are plenty of animal-free options for vegans. Most BBQ sauces are vegan, but some contain ingredients that are not considered vegan-friendly. The key non-vegan ingredients to look out for are anchovies, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and certain food colourings and gums. Some sugars may also be processed using bone char, which is not vegan. However, organic brands typically refrain from using this method. The safest option is to look for a vegan stamp on the label.

Common non-vegan ingredients in BBQ sauce

BBQ sauce typically starts with a ketchup-like base of tomato paste, vinegar, and smoke flavor, which is then supplemented with herbs and spices. However, some sauces contain ingredients that are not suitable for vegans. Here are some common non-vegan ingredients to look out for:

Honey

Honey is a popular sweetening agent in BBQ sauces, especially those with a lower sugar content. However, as honey is an animal by-product produced by bees, it is not considered vegan. Many BBQ sauce brands prominently feature honey on their labels, making it relatively easy to identify and avoid. Examples of non-vegan sauces containing honey include several offerings from Kraft, Stubb's, and Sweet Baby Ray's.

Anchovies

Anchovies are small, salty fish often used to add a savoury umami flavour to sauces. They are commonly found in Worcestershire sauce, which is itself an ingredient in some BBQ sauces. Anchovies are not considered vegan, and their presence in a BBQ sauce usually indicates that the product is not vegan-friendly. Examples of non-vegan sauces containing anchovies include several offerings from Heinz.

Dairy Products

Although less common, some BBQ sauces may contain dairy products such as milk or egg yolks, particularly those with more exotic or unusual flavours. These ingredients are not suitable for vegans, so it is important to carefully check the ingredient list of any BBQ sauce before purchasing. Examples of non-vegan sauces containing dairy include several offerings from Sweet Baby Ray's.

Meat-based Stocks

While not as common nowadays, some BBQ sauces may use meat-based stocks, such as beef or chicken stock, as their base. These meat-based stocks are obviously not suitable for vegans, so it is important to review the ingredient list to ensure the sauce is vegan-friendly.

When selecting a BBQ sauce, it is always a good idea to carefully read the ingredient list and look for any non-vegan ingredients that may be present. Additionally, some brands may offer specific vegan options, making it easier to identify suitable sauces.

How to identify vegan BBQ sauce

BBQ sauce is typically made from a combination of plant-based ingredients, including tomato paste, vinegar, herbs, and spices. However, not all BBQ sauces are vegan-friendly, and some ingredients may be unexpected. Here are some tips on how to identify vegan BBQ sauce:

Check the Ingredients List

The ingredients list on a product's packaging is a good place to start when determining its vegan status. Some common non-vegan ingredients found in BBQ sauce include:

• Honey: Bees produce honey, so it is not vegan. Fortunately, brands that use honey often advertise it on the front label, making it easier to spot.
• Anchovies: Anchovies are small fish that can be used to add a salty, umami flavour to sauces. They are not vegan or vegetarian.
• Dairy Products: While less common, some exotic or unusual BBQ sauce flavours may contain milk or egg yolks.

Be Wary of "Natural Flavours"

The term "natural flavours" on ingredient lists can be misleading. It is often difficult to determine whether these flavours are derived from plants or animals, and companies may not disclose this information upon inquiry.

Choose Trusted Vegan Brands

Look for BBQ sauces that are marketed as vegan or plant-based. Some reliable options include:

• Annie's: Original, Smoky Maple, and Sweet & Spicy varieties.
• Primal Kitchen: Classic, Golden, Hawaiian Style, and Mango Jalapeño varieties.
• Organicville: Original and Tangy varieties.
• Tessemae's: Matty's Organic variety.
• Kraft: Original Slow-Simmered, Hot & Spicy, Hickory Smoke Slow-Simmered, and Sweet & Spicy varieties.

Make Your Own

If you're unsure about store-bought options, you can always make your own vegan BBQ sauce at home. Start with a base of organic ketchup, then add soy sauce or tamari, vinegar, maple syrup, molasses, vegan Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and BBQ spices to taste. Thicken the sauce by simmering it in a pan for a few minutes, and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently identify and enjoy vegan BBQ sauce, knowing that it aligns with your ethical choices and lifestyle.

Vegan BBQ sauce brands

BBQ sauce is usually vegan, but not always. The most common animal-based ingredients to look out for are honey and anchovies, but there are other, less obvious ingredients that may be derived from animals. These include food colourings, cane sugars refined using bone char, natural flavouring, gums and emulsifiers like gelatin, and Worcestershire sauce, which is made with fermented anchovies.

Some popular brands of BBQ sauce that are vegan include:

• Annie's (Original, Smoky Maple, and Sweet & Spicy varieties)
• Primal Kitchen (Classic, Golden, Hawaiian Style, and Mango Jalapeño varieties)
• Kraft (Original Slow-Simmered, Hot & Spicy, Hickory Smoke Slow-Simmered, and Sweet & Spicy varieties)
• Bull's-Eye (Original variety)
• Tessemae's Matty's Organic
• McDonald's Tangy BBQ Sauce
• Sweet Baby Ray's (Original and Sweet 'n Spicy varieties)
• Heinz (Carolina Mustard Style, Carolina Vinegar Style Sweet & Tangy, Original Sweet & Thick, and Texas Style Bold & Spicy varieties)
• KC Masterpiece
• Hunt's
• Jack Daniels
• Guy's Award Winning Sugar Free BBQ Sauce
• HP Classic BBQ Sauce
• Triple Crown Organic BBQ Sauce
• Simple Girl Organic Carolina Kick BBQ Sauce
• Organicville (Original and Tangy varieties)
• Smoky Date Paleo Whole30 BBQ Sauce
• Bubbas Fine Foods Smokey Chipotle BBQ

Making your own vegan BBQ sauce

Ingredients:

• Ketchup: Look for organic ketchup without preservatives or high fructose corn syrup. You can also use tomato paste for a richer tomato base.
• Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is recommended for its tangy flavour. You can also use white vinegar or lemon juice.
• Sweetener: You can use brown sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, agave syrup, or molasses.
• Spices: Smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder or cayenne pepper, and black pepper are commonly used. You can also add a small amount of ground cinnamon and cloves for a unique flavour profile.
• Mustard: Prepared yellow or Dijon mustard adds a nice kick to the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Ensure you use a vegan and gluten-free variety, or make your own using apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tamari or soy sauce, onion powder, and spices.
• Liquid Smoke: This adds a beautiful smoky flavour. If you can't find liquid smoke, you can use more smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle chilli flakes or adobo sauce.

Optional Ingredients:

• Tomato paste: This can be added for a richer, more intense tomato flavour.
• Sesame oil: A small amount of oil can be added for flavour and texture.
• Water: Water can be added to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• Soy sauce or tamari: These can enhance the savoury, umami flavour of the sauce. Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce if necessary.

Method:

• Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk well. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium heat.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10-20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the sauce reduces and thickens. You can simmer for a shorter or longer time, depending on your desired consistency.
• Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
• Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Your homemade vegan BBQ sauce is now ready to enjoy! It will typically last for about 1-3 weeks in the refrigerator, and you can also freeze it for later use. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and adjust the recipe to your liking.

Vegan alternatives to BBQ sauce

BBQ sauce is typically vegan, but some popular brands contain animal products. The most common non-vegan ingredients to look out for are anchovies, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Some food colourings and gums may also be derived from animals, and some cane sugars are refined using animal bones.

If you're looking for a vegan alternative to your favourite BBQ sauce, there are plenty of options available in most grocery stores. Here are some suggestions:

Sweet Baby Ray's

Sweet Baby Ray's offers a range of vegan BBQ sauces, including their Original flavour, as well as Sweet Vidalia Onion, Sweet Golden Mustard, Sweet n' Spicy, Hickory and Brown Sugar, and Hawaiian Style.

Stubb's

Stubb's Spicy Bar-B-Q sauce is a good choice if you like your BBQ sauce hot. It's made with habanero and black pepper. If you prefer a milder flavour, Stubb's also offers Original, Dr. Pepper, Hickory Bourbon, Smokey Brown Sugar, and several other vegan options.

Primal Kitchen

Primal Kitchen's BBQ sauces are certified organic and free from added sugars. They offer several flavours, including Classic, Golden, Mango Jalapeño, and Hawaiian Style.

True Made Foods

True Made Foods offers five low- and no-sugar BBQ sauces that represent traditional American barbecue flavours from Memphis, Kansas City, Eastern Carolina, Western Carolina, and South Carolina. Their recipes include hidden veggies and are sweetened with American-grown fruits and vegetables.

Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce

Bachan's BBQ sauce has a teriyaki-like flavour with a blend of soy, mirin, ginger, garlic, and green onion. They also offer Hot and Spicy, Yuzu Citrus, and Hella Hot flavours, as well as a gluten-free version made with tamari.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also make your own vegan BBQ sauce at home. Most recipes include a combination of tomato paste or ketchup, vinegar, spices, vegan Worcestershire sauce, a sweetener such as maple syrup or agave, and liquid smoke. You can adjust the proportions and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Frequently asked questions