5 Steps to Hosting the Perfect Vegan Asado
How do you cook a vegan asado and make it guuud?
If you’re craving the smoky, savory essence of a traditional asado but want to keep it plant-based, this blog post is your ultimate guía to a vegan asado and vegan carne asada.
Hosting a vegan BBQ that celebrates both Mexican and Latin American flavors is easier than you think—plus, it’s an excellent way to impress amigos who might be new to plant-based recipes. Let’s gather around the parrilla, share a few laughs, and keep it sin carne while still honoring the spirit of the asados of our abuelos.
So what are the steps to a vegan asado?
1. Choose Your Star Protein
No asado is complete without a star protein, even if it’s 100% vegan. A few crowd-pleasers include:
- Seitan marinated in adobo for a spicy kick
- Tofu or tempeh soaked in a citrusy mojo
- Mushroom “steaks” brushed with chile-infused oil. See the tiktok below for an example.
Pro tip: Season liberally with marinades. A dash of achiote, some cumin, and fresh lime juice will make your protein the star of the show. This helps mimic the deep flavors of a traditional asado without the animal products.
2. Prep Flavorful Veggies
A colorful array of veggies is a surefire way to impress your guests:
- Grilled Nopales – Common in Mexican cuisine, cactus have a tangy bite that pairs perfectly with your main protein.
- Bell Peppers & Onions – Classic fajita-style veggies that are simple yet full of flavor when tossed with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Corn on the Cob – Slather with vegan butter, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime for a true elote sensation.
These veggies don’t just look pretty—they also add variety and freshness to your plate.
3. Create Fresh, Festive Sides
When you think asado and BBQ, the sides are just as important as the main dish. For your vegan feast, try:
- Guacamole/palta loaded with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and plenty of lime.
- Pico de Gallo or Salsa Verde, to add a tangy, spicy kick.
- Refried Beans (made without lard) or black beans simmered with onion, garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes.
- Make sure the beans don’t have any lard, and look for vegan brands instead.
These classic Latin American sides not only elevate your meal but also ensure no one goes home hungry.
4. Warm Up Some Tortillas
An asado with a nod to our Mexican and Latin American traditions wouldn’t be complete without tortillas. Warm up:
- Corn Tortillas for an authentic flavor.
- Flour Tortillas if you want something softer and more flexible.
- Read the ingredients to make sure they have no lard if you’re completely vegan.
Set them on the grill for a few seconds on each side or wrap them in foil and place them near the heat. Fresh, hot tortillas instantly transform your plant-based BBQ into a big party, man.
5. Elevate the Experience with Drinks & Dessert
Round out your vegan asado by offering:
- Agua Fresca made from fresh hibiscus , tamarind, or cucumber-lime for a refreshing sip.
- Margaritas—just be sure to check that the ingredients are vegan-friendly.
- Mocktails from brands like Trejo’s Spirits add a special touch to any vegan bbq.
- Vegan Churros or grilled pineapple drizzled with agave for a sweet finish.
These treats will give your event an extra wow factor and truly capture the essence of a Latin American BBQ.
Hosting a vegan asado is a fabulous way to celebrate tradition while keeping it cruelty-free and bursting with flavor. From perfectly seasoned plant-based proteins to crowd-pleasing sides and refreshing drinks, each step is designed to give you that authentic, smoky taste without any carne. Roll out the tortillas, pour the aguas frescas, and create a memorable Senora Era experience.
Ready to try these 5 steps at your next gathering? Make sure to share your vegan asado photos on social media—tag us for a chance to get featured. Happy grilling, queridas!
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