As a vegan, I have always been on the lookout for plant-based alternatives that not only resemble the taste and texture of meat but are also delicious and satisfying. Sausages are no exception, as they are versatile and can elevate any meal.
Thankfully, with growing interest in veganism, manufacturers have started creating sausages that cater to plant-based diets without compromising on taste or quality.
Vegan sausages come in a wide range of flavors and textures, mimicking classic meaty sausages like bratwurst, Italian, or chorizo. This diversity offers endless options to experiment with and incorporate into recipes.
Some sausages contain ingredients like vital wheat gluten, soy, and pea protein, while others use wholesome plant-based ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, and vegetables.
When choosing the best vegan sausage, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredient list, nutritional value, flavor profile, and texture. Look for a product made with high-quality ingredients, minimal artificial additives, and a good balance of taste and texture.
After spending a significant amount of time researching, I tested a variety of vegan sausages to help you find the best option that makes plant-based eating enjoyable and satisfying. So let’s dive into the top contenders and discover the best vegan sausage for your mealtime needs.
Best Vegan Sausages
I’ve gathered a list of the best vegan sausages available on Amazon. Check them out below to find your perfect plant-based alternative!
The Sausage Maker – Vegan Sausage Casings
I’d recommend these vegan sausage casings for those looking to make tender sausages with a classic snap.
Pros
- Remarkably similar to fresh collagen casing
- Suitable for various fresh, small-diameter imitation sausages
- Composed of non-GMO and allergen-free ingredients
Cons
- Fragile, requiring careful handling
- Incompatible with boiling or oil cooking methods
- Limited to stuffing capacity of approximately 20 lbs. per strand
I was quite impressed by how similar the Sausage Maker’s vegan sausage casings look and taste compared to traditional collagen casings. It gave my sausages a familiar appearance and feel while remaining completely vegan.
One thing I noticed is that these casings can be a bit delicate, so they need to be handled with care during the stuffing process. It’s essential to slowly bring up the temperature during cooking to prevent them from breaking. I found pan-frying them on medium/light heat for around 3-4 minutes without any oil to be the best cooking method.
Unfortunately, these casings aren’t suitable for cooking techniques that involve boiling or soaking in water, as they’ll disintegrate. That said, if you follow the recommended guidelines, your final product will be tender and delicious.
These casings’ allergen-free and non-GMO ingredients undoubtedly widened their appeal, so more people can enjoy homemade vegan sausages without worrying about potential allergens or genetically modified organisms in their food.
Keep in mind that each strand will stuff approximately 20 lbs. of your choice of imitation sausage, so the stuffing capacity may not be as vast as you’d like. However, I found it to be more than sufficient for my home cooking needs.
The Sausage Maker’s vegan sausage casings are a suitable option for creating tender, delicious sausages with a classic snap, as long as you follow the appropriate cooking methods. Just be prepared to take extra care while handling these delicate casings to ensure the best possible results.
Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties
These delicious plant-based sausages offer a satisfying alternative to traditional meat, perfect for powering up your mornings.
Pros
- Juicy and protein-packed
- Quick to cook from frozen
- Healthier alternative to pork sausages
Cons
- Slightly unusual smell while cooking
- May require lower temperature to cook well
- May be a tad pricey
I recently tried the Beyond Breakfast Sausage Plant-Based Patties and was pleasantly surprised by their taste and texture. Made with peas and brown rice, these sausages have 11 grams of plant-based protein to kickstart my day. As a bonus, they have 35% less saturated fat and sodium per serving compared to pork sausages.
One thing I noticed while cooking the sausages was the unusual smell. I thought it might affect the taste, but once cooked, the flavor was excellent. In the future, I’ll also be careful about the temperature when frying as these sausages differ from traditional ones and require a bit of adjustment.
With each box containing six plant-based patties, I find the Beyond Breakfast Sausage Patties a great addition to my kitchen. The only downside is that they can be somewhat pricey, but considering the health benefits, convenience, and taste, I believe they are worth it.
I also highly recommend giving Beyond Breakfast’s Spicy Sausage Plant-Based Patties a try if you want a little kick to your breakfast meal. These sausages will have you enjoying your morning meal without sacrificing taste or quality.
Field Roast Smoked Apple Sage Sausage
I believe the Field Roast Smoked Apple Sage Sausage is a tasty and versatile vegan option for those seeking a satisfying plant-based meal.
Pros
- Delicious flavor combination of apple, sage, and ginger
- Easy to prepare – just heat and eat
- Works well for breakfast or any meal
Cons
- Only available in a 3-ounce size
- May not suit those with wheat allergies
- Limited availability – ordering only
Having tried the Field Roast Smoked Apple Sage Sausage, I must say that it is a delightful addition to my vegan meals. The surprising blend of granny smith apples, Yukon Gold potatoes, sage, and ginger creates a unique flavor profile that pleases the taste buds.
What I love most about this vegan sausage is its ease of preparation. No need for intricate cooking steps—simply heat it up and enjoy it right away. It works fantastic as a breakfast addition or even as part of a main dish for lunch or dinner, making it a versatile choice for any time of the day.
However, there are some minor drawbacks to consider. For one, it is currently only available in a 3-ounce size, which may not be enough for those with larger appetites or for those who want to share with family and friends.
Moreover, the sausage contains wheat flour, which may not be suitable for individuals with wheat allergies. And lastly, this vegan sausage is only available through ordering, which might pose a challenge to some potential buyers.
Despite these minor drawbacks, I still believe Field Roast Smoked Apple Sage Sausage stands as an excellent vegan option. Its delightful taste, ease of preparation, and versatile character make it a great addition to any plant-based meal.
Companion Foods Canned Vegan Chinese Sausage
I think anyone searching for a unique vegan sausage should give this Companion Foods option a try, as it adds great flavor to dishes.
Pros
- Authentic Chinese flavor
- Versatile in various recipes
- Comes in a convenient 4-pack
Cons
- Texture may not be ideal for everyone
- Canned packaging may not appeal to all
- Not overly remarkable on its own
The first thing that I noticed with the Companion Foods Canned Vegan Chinese Sausage was how authentic the Chinese flavors were. When I used it in my stir-fry and over rice, I found that it added a nice touch to my meals, giving them a distinct taste. The fact that it comes in a pack of four cans is also convenient, as it ensures I have enough to experiment with in different recipes.
The texture of this vegan sausage is tender, as it is actually made from seitan. Personally, I didn’t have a problem with the texture, but I can imagine that it might not be everyone’s preference, especially if they are looking for a closer resemblance to meat. I also understand that the canned packaging may not be as appealing to some people, but I didn’t find that to be a significant issue.
On its own, the Companion Foods Canned Vegan Chinese Sausage might not be overly remarkable, but it really shines when added to different dishes. It makes for a great addition to various recipes, elevating the taste and providing a vegan alternative to traditional Chinese sausage.
All in all, I found that this product brings something unique to the table, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to explore new flavors in their vegan cooking.
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Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best vegan sausage for me, there are a few features I always consider to ensure I’m making a delicious and satisfying choice!
Texture and Taste
The texture and taste of the vegan sausage are probably the most important factors for me. I prefer a sausage with a bit of a snap when I bite into it and a texture that resembles a traditional sausage.
I also make sure it has a rich, savory flavor that will complement any dish nicely. Keep these qualities in mind as you browse, and don’t hesitate to read reviews about other people’s experiences!
Ingredients
As a vegan, I know how important it is to stick to plant-based ingredients. It’s crucial for me to check the label for any possible allergens or non-vegan ingredients, such as dairy derivatives or certain food additives.
Here’s a basic table of desirable and undesired ingredients:
| Desirable Ingredients | Undesirable Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Plant-based proteins | Artificial flavors |
| Whole food ingredients | Preservatives |
| Natural flavorings | High-fructose corn syrup |
Nutritional Profile
Of course, I’m always on the lookout for vegan sausages that provide benefits beyond just taste and texture. A good vegan sausage should contain a decent amount of protein (typically around 15-20 grams per serving), but I also pay attention to the fat content and, if needed, sodium levels.
- Protein: Aim for 15-20 grams per serving
- Fat: Consider a lower-fat option if dietary needs require it
- Sodium: Keep an eye on sodium levels, especially if you’re watching your salt intake
Cooking Versatility
As someone who loves to get creative in the kitchen, I appreciate a vegan sausage that can be used in various dishes, from simple grilling to casseroles and pasta dishes. Look for sausages that hold up well in different types of recipes and cooking methods, as this will allow you to enjoy them in a wide range of meals!
I hope this buying guide helps you in your quest to find the perfect vegan sausage for your tastes and needs. Happy shopping!
