The Original Black’s Barbecue might be synonymous with Texas barbecue traditions and smoked meat, but they know a thing or two about vegan recipes.
That means even plant-based eaters can get in on the smoky goodness with this vegan BBQ sandwich recipe to try at home.
Barrett Black, fourth-generation pitmaster, shares a vegan sandwich that uses smoked spaghetti squash and charred purple cabbage to create a savory, satisfying vegan meal.
By applying some of Black’s Barbecue’s decades of experience with smoking meat to this vegetable dish, Barrett delivers a delicious vegan BBQ option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Secrets to Delicious Vegan BBQ
Experimenting with vegetables means applying the same attention to detail that’s made the Black family’s smoked meat dishes famous.
“I like to experiment with different vegetables; it’s a challenge for me,” said Barrett.
He treats vegetables like any prized cut of meat — smoking them low and slow to develop deep flavors. Whether it’s smoky spaghetti squash or beautifully charred purple cabbage, he’s using techniques honed over generations.
“We’re going to apply some of the 90 years of cooking meat to cooking vegetables,” he explains.
These plant-based options aren’t just sides — they’re stars in their own right.
Making a Vegan BBQ Sandwich: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 Tbsp chipotle mustard pepper sauce (adjust to taste)
- Hamburger buns, pickles, and sliced red onions
Instructions:
- Preheat the Smoker: Set your smoker to 275°F, aiming for a mild to medium smoke. Spaghetti squash absorbs smoke quickly, so this temperature will help develop flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Prepare the Squash: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and pulp. Rub the outside with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite dry rub.
- Smoke the Squash: Place the seasoned squash halves cut side up on the smoker grates. Let the squash smoke for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the flesh is tender and easy to pull apart into strands resembling spaghetti.
- Shred the Squash: Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the flesh, creating spaghetti-like strands. Place the strands in a mixing bowl.
- Mix the Flavors: Add chili powder, garlic powder, barbecue sauce, and chipotle mustard pepper sauce to the shredded squash. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The smoky, spicy combination will bring the dish to life.
- Toast and Assemble: Lightly toast your hamburger buns. Spoon the smoked spaghetti squash mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Top with pickles, sliced red onions, and, if you want extra crunch, some charred purple cabbage.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches immediately, with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired.
Why Spaghetti Squash Works for Vegan BBQ
Spaghetti squash’s unique texture makes it an ideal base for vegan BBQ, offering versatility and the ability to absorb smoky flavors, much like meat. When smoked, its mild sweetness transforms into a deep, rich taste that mimics the essence of pulled pork or chicken. The squash’s natural strands provide a tender, satisfying bite that holds up in a hearty vegan sandwich.
The addition of barbecue sauce and chipotle mustard pepper sauce brings a dynamic balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. Combined with the crunch of pickles and onions, this vegan BBQ sandwich becomes a flavorful, filling option that delivers the best of barbecue without the meat. Beyond taste, spaghetti squash is a healthy alternative—low in calories, high in nutrients, and perfect for plant-based grilling enthusiasts
Experimenting with Sides: Charred Purple Cabbage
If you’re looking for the perfect side to complement your vegan BBQ sandwich, try Barrett Black’s favorite: charred purple cabbage. This simple yet flavorful side is easy to make and adds a smoky, crispy element to your meal.
Just season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and oil, then char it on the grill until it’s caramelized and tender. The charred edges give it a deep, smoky flavor, while the inside remains tender and slightly sweet.
Not only does it make a great side, but you can also use it as a topping to add extra texture and flavor to your vegan BBQ sandwich. The vibrant color of the cabbage also adds a pop of visual appeal to your plate, making your vegan BBQ meal as visually enticing as it is delicious.
Exploring New Vegan BBQ Possibilities
Barbecue is all about creativity and flavor, and this vegan BBQ sandwich is a great example of how you can explore new possibilities on the grill. By using ingredients like smoked spaghetti squash and charred purple cabbage, you can create a delicious plant-based option that’s rich in smoky, bold flavors.
Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, this vegan BBQ sandwich shows that there are endless ways to enjoy barbecue, even without the meat. So fire up the smoker and start experimenting—you never know what delicious new creation you’ll come up with next!