Liquid smoke is a concentrated smoke flavouring that can add a smoky depth to a variety of dishes without requiring actual grilling or smoking. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of vegan and plant-based recipes. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of hickory, applewood, and mesquite liquid smoke and how to use them in your cooking.
As part of the retail selection, we now have them all available to purchase at the shop, and our conversations with clients (and maybe you reading this) have inspired me to dive deeper into the world of this vegan pantry must-have.
Hickory Liquid Smoke
- Flavour Profile: Hickory offers a strong, bold, and slightly sweet smoky flavour. It’s often used in barbecue sauces and rubs.
- Ideas:
- Seitan and Tempeh: Add a smoky flavor to seitan or tempeh steaks or burgers.
- Vegan Bacon: Use hickory liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor of traditional bacon.
- BBQ Sauces: Incorporate it into homemade vegan barbecue sauces for a smoky kick.
Applewood Liquid Smoke
- Flavour Profile: Applewood offers a mild, fruity, and slightly sweet smoky flavour. It’s a versatile option that complements many dishes.
- Ideas:
- Vegetables: Add a smoky touch to roasted or grilled vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Plant-Based Proteins: Use applewood liquid smoke to enhance the flavor of tofu or jackfruit.
- Marinades: Incorporate it into marinades for tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
Mesquite Liquid Smoke
- Flavour Profile: Mesquite offers a bold, smoky, and slightly bitter flavour. It’s a great choice for adding a smoky depth to hearty dishes.
- Ideas:
- Chili: Use mesquite liquid smoke to add a smoky depth to your vegan chili.
- Stews: Enhance the flavour of hearty stews or soups with a touch of mesquite.
- Beans: Add mesquite liquid smoke to your favorite bean dishes for a smoky flavour.
Tips for Using Liquid Smoke:
- Start with a small amount and taste as you go. Liquid smoke can be quite potent.
- Use liquid smoke sparingly, as it can overpower delicate flavours.
- Experiment with different combinations of liquid smokes to create unique flavour profiles.
By understanding the distinct characteristics of hickory, applewood, and mesquite liquid smoke, you can add a smoky dimension to your vegan and plant-based dishes.
Homemade Vegan BBQ Sauce with Liquid Smoke
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Wright’s Mesquite liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Let cool before using.
Tips:
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- To make a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of brown sugar.
- This sauce can be used to marinate tofu or tempeh, or as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches.
Enjoy your homemade vegan BBQ sauce!