Eating plant-based can be an exciting journey, especially with so many new vegan products on the market. We often find people are curious about trying plant-based foods but aren’t sure where to start. Vegan products can range from dairy-free cheeses to plant-based burgers, and even snacks and desserts. These products not only offer delicious alternatives to traditional animal-based items but also can be better for the environment and often for our health.
When shopping for vegan products, a few things are important to keep in mind. First, check the ingredients list to ensure there are no hidden animal products. Some seemingly vegan items might contain things like honey or gelatin. It’s also wise to consider the nutritional content. Some plant-based products might have added sugars or be high in sodium, so reading labels carefully can help make healthier choices.
We dove deep into the world of vegan goodies to discover five amazing products you might not know about yet. We focused on their flavors, texture, and the joy they bring to meals. We spent countless hours researching and testing ten vegan snacks to identify the ones that are a must-have for your pantry.
Must-Try Vegan Products
We’ve searched high and low to find some exciting vegan products you might not know about. Let’s check out our top picks that will add flavor and fun to our plant-based lifestyle!
Stroop Club Vegan Stroopwafels
These delicious vegan stroopwafels offer a perfect and delightful snack for any time of the day.
Pros
- Full of flavor with a smooth caramel taste
- Portable and easy to pack for a quick treat
- Made with organic ingredients for a healthier option
Cons
- Slightly expensive compared to regular snacks
- Might arrive a bit crumbled
- Texture can feel a bit grainy for some people
These waffle cookies have quickly become a favorite in our snack rotation. We love how easy they are to enjoy on the go, whether we’re heading out for a busy day or simply taking a break with a cup of coffee. The caramel filling adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the taste.
Heating them over a warm drink is an experience we recommend trying. It makes the waffle wonderfully gooey and enhances the caramel flavor. It’s also nice knowing these treats are made with plant-based, organic ingredients. They feel like a little indulgence but without any guilt.
Despite some minor issues like occasional crumbling or a slight graininess, we think these vegan stroopwafels are fantastic. We appreciate having a treat that satisfies our sweet tooth and fits our lifestyle.
Cocomels Oatmilk Chocolate Toffee
This toffee bark is a treat we think you’ll love, blending creamy oatmilk chocolate with crunchy toffee, crafted just for those who need or want a dairy-free option.
Pros
- Delightfully creamy without using dairy
- Made with clean, real ingredients
- Perfect for sharing or solo snacking
Cons
- May melt in warmer conditions
- Some might find it more expensive than typical candies
- Not returnable if packaging issues occur
The experience of biting into a piece of Cocomels Oatmilk Chocolate Toffee is incredibly satisfying. The blend of smooth oatmilk chocolate and crunchy toffee offers a unique taste that’s hard to resist. The fact that it’s vegan and gluten-free makes it even more appealing for those who have dietary restrictions.
We found it incredibly convenient that the packages were resealable. Whether you’re packing a lunch or need a midday snack, it’s easy to save some for later, though we must admit, it’s so tasty, it can be hard to stop!
While we enjoyed this treat, it’s wise to be careful about where you store it. Since it can melt, a cool, dry place is best. It’s a bit pricier than regular candies, but we believe it’s worth it for a quality, worry-free treat.
Primal Spirit Vegan Jerky
If you’re a snack lover on the hunt for tasty vegan options, this might just be a must-have for you.
Pros
- Tasty range of flavors
- High in plant-based protein
- Convenient on-the-go snack
Cons
- Not a perfect match for meat jerky texture
- Some flavors can be hit or miss
- Can be a bit pricey for regular snacking
We were excited to dig into this sampler pack. Each bite delivered a punch of flavor, making it hard to choose a favorite. With six flavors like Hickory Smoked and Thai Peanut, there’s always something new to enjoy. Plus, it’s great knowing we’re munching on something cruelty-free.
This jerky is packed with plant-based protein, which is perfect for keeping us energized during hikes or long bike rides. Throw a stick into your backpack, and it’s an instant energy boost without weighing you down.
The texture is softer than traditional meat jerky, so for those of us accustomed to the chewy texture of beef, this might be a different experience. Thankfully, the bold flavors make up for it! While it might be on the pricier side, sometimes investing in quality plant-based snacks feels worth it.
Lenny & Larry’s White Chocolate Macadamia Cookie
For anyone craving a sweet vegan treat that packs a protein punch, this cookie is a must-try.
Pros
- Packed with 16g of protein per cookie
- Deliciously soft and chewy
- Certified vegan and non-GMO
Cons
- Size might be too large for a single snack
- Can be a bit dry
- High-calorie count
We recently tried Lenny & Larry’s White Chocolate Macadamia Cookie. We were amazed by its size and found it super filling. This is perfect for anyone who wants to indulge their sweet tooth while still getting a good amount of protein.
The texture of the cookie is pleasantly soft, and the white chocolate macadamia flavor did not disappoint. These cookies are sweet, but not overpowering. Each bite is a delightful mix of chewy softness and tasty flavor.
For those of us looking to add more protein to our diet with a sweet twist, this cookie is great. We love sharing one as a snack because it’s pretty big. Just be prepared for a few extra calories if you decide to finish a whole cookie on your own.
Native Forest Jackfruit
This jackfruit is a solid choice for anyone looking for a tasty and versatile meat substitute.
Pros
- Great texture similar to shredded meat
- Absorbs flavors of sauces well
- Sustainable and organic
Cons
- Some cans may arrive dented
- Requires preparation to remove briny taste
- Texture might not suit everyone
Our experience with Native Forest Jackfruit has been delightful. The texture is impressively similar to shredded meat, making it an easy choice for vegan tacos and pulled “pork” sandwiches. It’s quite satisfying to see the jackfruit absorb the flavors of any sauce we cook it with—whether barbecue or teriyaki.
While it’s a great meat substitute, there is some prep work involved. Rinsing and boiling help remove the initial briny flavor. Doing this properly can be the difference between an okay meal and a great one. It really does pay off in the end for those who aren’t fans of that initial taste.
We did have to be careful with the packaging, though. Some cans arrived dented, which was a little disappointing. Despite this, we’re happy to keep using it, as the taste and texture outweigh any minor hiccups we encountered. Shredded and seasoned, Native Forest Jackfruit is definitely worth the try for any vegan kitchen.
Vegan Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich with Coleslaw
Ingredients:
For the Pulled Jackfruit:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine or water, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix of red and green cabbage)
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 toasted buns
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish
- Extra barbecue sauce for serving
Instructions:
Prepare the Jackfruit:
- Drain and rinse the jackfruit. Cut off the core and remove any seeds. Shred the jackfruit pieces with your fingers or a fork to create a pulled texture.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the jackfruit to absorb the spices.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce and stir well to coat the jackfruit. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jackfruit is tender and flavorful.
Prepare the Coleslaw:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Toast the buns until golden brown.
- Place a generous amount of the pulled jackfruit on the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with a scoop of coleslaw.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and place the top half of the bun on the sandwich.
- Serve with a small bowl of extra barbecue sauce on the side.