These vegan ribs require just 2 ingredients! They’re super simple to make, too. You might be thinking, how can tempeh really taste like ribs? It’s true, if you are expecting these vegetarian ribs to taste like actual meat, you will be disappointed. But they definitely will give you the feel of eating ribs like you used to enjoy, and you can rest easy knowing you’re just eating plants! I hope you give them a try! These tempeh ribs are sticky, sweet, smoky and perfect for a summer bbq or potluck when you want to bring a vegan option. Don’t forget the best vegan potato salad, queso dip or bbq cauliflower! They can be baked in the oven or cooked on the grill.
How to make tempeh ribs
The first thing you need to do is steam the tempeh. This is such an easy step that will make all the difference in both flavor and texture. Steaming helps release any bitter flavors, and opens it up to absorb more of the bbq sauce marinade. Simply open the packages of tempeh, cut the blocks in half, place in a steamer basket with water underneath and steam for 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Cut the tempeh into 1/2 inch thick slices and place in large container for marinating. Pour the bbq sauce over the tempeh, and stir to coat the pieces as much as possible. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, if possible and even overnight. If you don’t have time to marinate, don’t worry, they will still be delicious!
Oven baked vegan ribs
To bake in the oven, transfer the bbq coated tempeh pieces to a parchment lined pan. Brush even more bbq sauce on top of the pieces, and bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes. Towards the end, broil for a few minutes, watching closely to brown the tops slightly. My hands always get messy with bbq sauce at this point!
Grill option
Place the bbq tempeh coated pieces on a grill on low-medium heat for about 15 minutes.
Gluten free
To make sure your tempeh ribs are gluten free, you must use gluten free tempeh. Lightlife brand makes a few that don’t contain gluten, so check the ingredients list. Bbq sauce shouldn’t contain gluten, but check the ingredients just in case!
Homemade or store bought bbq sauce?
I love my homemade Quick & Easy Vegan Barbecue Sauce, so if you can whip that up real quick I highly suggest it! If not, use your favorite store bought brand. I love Kansas City Style for these ribs, and I often use Kroger brand or Trader Joe’s.
More backyard vegan bbq recipes
Chickpea SaladPesto Pasta SaladVegan Pasta SaladVegan Zucchini FrittersThe Best Vegan Baked BeansVegan Macaroni Salad
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