Sweet Heat

Vegetarian and Vegan BBQ Flavours that pair beautifully with Date Sugar and Date Syrup

BBQ season has grown and adapted over the years and now boasts an array of delectable options for vegetarians and vegans – we can’t get enough! The range of flavours from spicy to smoky, the colours and texture… the aromas… it’s all so mouth-wateringly moreish.

Sweet flavours are by no means strangers to a BBQ spread, in fact, they contribute to some of the most popular and craved flavours on the BBQ. Historically, these sweet flavours have come from molasses, brown sugar, and a variety of other sweeteners. 

We’re here to propose a different, whole fruit option: Date sugar and date syrup.

By incorporating the natural sweetness of date sugar and date syrup into your vegetarian and vegan BBQ creations, you can elevate your dishes to new heights. Now, let's dive into the realm of vegetarian and vegan BBQ flavours that harmonize deliciously with date sugar and date syrup!

Smoky Maple Glazed Tofu with Date Syrup

Tofu, with its versatile nature, is an excellent canvas for absorbing flavors. Create a tantalizing marinade by combining date syrup, smoky spices like paprika and cumin, a hint of liquid smoke, and a dash of soy sauce. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least an hour before grilling. As it cooks, brush the tofu with a mixture of date syrup and maple syrup, creating a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully. The result is a smoky, sweet, and utterly irresistible tofu dish that will convert even the most dedicated meat-eaters. Sweet tip: carefully carve a lattice effect into the top of the tofu to encourage more of those crave-worthy charred edges.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Date Sugar Rub

Elevate your veggie skewers by adding a touch of sweetness with a date sugar rub. Combine date sugar with a blend of savory spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick (or more if you love the heat). Toss your favorite vegetables—such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes—in the date sugar rub. Thread them onto skewers and grill until they are beautifully charred and tender. The result is a medley of perfectly caramelized vegetables with a hint of sweetness that will satisfy any vegetarian or vegan palate.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich with Date Syrup

Jackfruit is a fantastic meat substitute due to its fibrous texture and ability to absorb flavors. For a sweet and spicy BBQ jackfruit sandwich, create a marinade using date syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Allow the jackfruit to marinate for at least two hours before grilling or baking until it becomes tender and shreds easily. Serve the succulent jackfruit on a bun with your favorite toppings for a vegetarian or vegan BBQ sandwich that combines smoky, spicy, and sweet notes in perfect harmony. We serve ours’ with coleslaw and pickles… the acidity with the sweet/smoky flavours is sublime.

Date Sugar and Lime Grilled Pineapple

For a delightful vegetarian or vegan BBQ dessert, turn to the tropical flavors of grilled pineapple. Sprinkle pineapple slices with a mixture of date sugar and lime zest, allowing the sugar to slightly caramelize as it grills. The heat intensifies the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while the tangy lime and date sugar complement each other beautifully. Serve the grilled pineapple as is or add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a refreshing and satisfying end to your plant-based BBQ feast.

Vegetarians and vegans can embrace the joy of BBQ season with an array of flavors that showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients. By incorporating the natural sweetness of date sugar and date syrup into your vegetarian and vegan BBQ dishes, you add a unique twist that wonderfully enhances the overall experience.

So fire up the grill, embrace the plant-based goodness, and enjoy a vegetarian and vegan BBQ feast that showcases the remarkable pairing of date sugar and date syrup in every delightful bite.