Unveiling the Best Vegan Recipes of 2013: A Journey of Flavor, Growth, and Compassion
As we reflect on the incredible journey of 2013, it’s clear that it was a year marked by significant milestones, both personally and within the vibrant world of plant-based cuisine. This past year, cauliflower emerged as an undeniable star in our kitchen, captivating palates and inspiring countless culinary creations. Above, you’ll find a glimpse of one of the year’s standout dishes: the much-loved Lentil Cauliflower Burger, a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based ingredients. This robust burger, brimming with flavor and texture, perfectly encapsulates the innovative spirit that defined our culinary explorations throughout the year.
A Year of Personal Transformation and Blog Development
Beyond the kitchen, 2013 was a pivotal year for personal growth and the evolution of this blog. It was the year I refined my food photography skills, finding renewed energy to explore and innovate in the culinary space. This period also brought a profound sense of calm and a better ability to manage anxiety. The meticulous process of setting up shots, holding still, and capturing an extensive number of images proved unexpectedly therapeutic. It significantly improved my balance and eye-hand coordination, bolstering my confidence in my physical capabilities and overall well-being. This renewed strength came after a challenging start to the year, including a two-month battle with sinusitis that left me barely able to stand for more than a few minutes in the kitchen – a truly frightening experience. Overcoming such health hurdles reinforced my dedication to creating nourishing, wholesome recipes, transforming a personal challenge into a source of creative inspiration. For a deeper dive into my personal journey and the philosophy behind my work, please visit the About Me section of the blog.
Despite the long hours spent editing photos, crafting posts, and networking – tasks that aren’t always my favorite – I dedicated myself to enhancing the blog’s resources and making plant-based living more accessible. A major highlight was the publication of my first Ebook: Indian Sweets Vegan-ized, offering traditional Indian desserts reimagined for a plant-based diet without compromising on authentic flavors. I also made significant strides in improving the blog’s navigation, notably with the comprehensive Recipe Index, designed to help you quickly find the perfect dish. Furthermore, I’ve been diligently expanding our resource pages, aiming to simplify the transition to a plant-based lifestyle for everyone. Explore the Indian Pantry here, which details essential ingredients like lentils and spices crucial for mastering Indian vegan cuisine, and learn more about Our Vegan Journey and Frequently Asked Questions here. These resources are designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive on a delicious and compassionate vegan diet.
Advancing Animal Rights: A Landmark Year for Compassion
Beyond personal and culinary achievements, 2013 stood out as a monumental year for animals and animal rights advocacy worldwide. We witnessed inspiring progress, including significant bans on wild animals in circuses and the closure of dolphinariums, reflecting a growing global consciousness towards ethical treatment. Petitions advocating for animal welfare gained unprecedented traction, powerful documentaries exposing animal cruelty graced national television screens, and numerous celebrities openly embraced and discussed veganism, amplifying the message of compassion to a broader audience. These collective efforts represent significant steps forward in creating a more humane world for all living beings, fueling our commitment to a vegan lifestyle and proving that positive change is always possible when we work together.
Looking Ahead to 2014: An Empty Canvas of Possibilities
What does the new year, 2014, hold in store? The truth is, I haven’t made any grand, detailed plans yet. I prefer to approach the future without rigid deadlines or extensive blueprints. For me, 2014 is an exciting, empty slate, ready to be filled organically as new ideas, inspirations, and opportunities arise. This flexible approach allows for genuine creativity and authentic engagement with the journey ahead, letting passion guide the way rather than strict schedules. I believe the most impactful creations often emerge from this spontaneous and open-minded approach.
To each and every one of you who reads this blog, I extend my deepest gratitude. Thank you for being a part of this vibrant community, for your unwavering support, for trying out the recipes, and for all your kind words and appreciation. I am genuinely overwhelmed by the love and encouragement I receive; it is truly what keeps me motivated and my creative spirit thriving, knowing that these recipes bring joy and health to your homes. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Let’s raise a toast to a fantastic 2014, envisioning a year overflowing with even more incredible vegan recipes, continued healthy eating habits, greater personal health and happiness, and further monumental progress for animals across the globe! May it be a year of delicious discoveries and meaningful impact.
The Top 13 Most Popular Vegan Recipes of 2013
Now, let’s dive into the highly anticipated list of our top 13 most popular recipes from 2013 – the dishes that resonated most with you, our amazing readers! These are the recipes that generated the most buzz, inspired countless remakes, and truly defined a year of culinary excellence.
1. Cara’s Crispy Orange Cauliflower (GF)
It comes as no surprise that this phenomenal Cara’s Crispy Orange Cauliflower dish claimed the top spot. Its popularity soared, boasting the most visits, pins, and widespread presence across all social media platforms. This gluten-free masterpiece offers a delightful crunch and a vibrant, tangy orange sauce that perfectly coats tender cauliflower florets. It’s an ideal choice for a satisfying main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, showcasing how plant-based dishes can be both indulgent and incredibly flavorful, without compromising on dietary needs.
2. Lentil Cauliflower Burger with Roasted Peppers, Pickled Jalapeno, and Chipotle Habanero Mayo
This towering burger creation has been tried, tested, and adored by many, becoming a true fan favorite. The heart of this burger lies in its incredibly flavorful patties, crafted from simply cooked lentils and lightly roasted, grated cauliflower, infused with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. What makes these patties truly special is their dietary versatility: they are completely free of gluten, grain, soy, and nuts, making them accessible to a wide range of eaters. While assembling the entire burger might seem like a bit of an endeavor, you can easily streamline the process by incorporating some pre-made toppings or sauces. Our suggested build for this magnificent Lentil Cauliflower Burger features roasted peppers, tangy pickled jalapenos, fresh cilantro, crispy chickpea flour onion rings, vibrant spinach, and a kick from Chipotle habanero Mayo. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite, promising a gourmet experience at home!
3. Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Coffee Icing
Do we even need to elaborate on the irresistible appeal of these Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Coffee Icing? Their comforting aroma, soft, fluffy texture, and delectable, sweet glaze make them a perennial favorite, perfect for a cozy morning or a delightful treat any time of day. These rolls are a testament to the joy and simplicity of vegan baking, proving that classic comfort foods can be easily plant-based. Many recipes on the blog, including this one, now feature helpful step-by-step pictures to guide you through the process, ensuring perfect results every time you bake.
4. Triple Chocolate Salted Caramel Brownies
For the ultimate chocolate indulgence, look no further than these Triple Chocolate Salted Caramel Brownies. These fudgy, decadent bites of pure awesomeness require a bit of effort, but every moment spent is undeniably worth it. The rich triple chocolate combined with a hint of luscious salted caramel creates an unforgettable dessert experience that will satisfy even the most intense cravings. If you’re in need of a quicker fix for your chocolate desires, consider our simple Brownies recipe, posted more recently, which delivers fantastic results with less work. For both recipes, remember that slight underbaking is the secret to achieving that perfect fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. And for those who enjoy an extra layer of complexity, our Tiramisu Cheesecake Brownies, introduced just in the last week of 2013, quickly captivated hearts and palates, promising a delightful fusion of classic flavors.
5. Quinoa Shells in White Garlic Jalapeno Sauce (GF)
This recipe for Quinoa Shells in White Garlic Jalapeno Sauce quickly rose to fame, and for good reason. It’s arguably one of the easiest and most incredibly delicious pasta sauces you’ll ever make! The creamy, rich, garlicky, and subtly spicy sauce perfectly complements the quinoa shells, offering a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. Its popularity is no surprise, as it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a weeknight dinner hero. For even more convenience and variety in your pasta dishes, be sure to explore my Pasta Sauce Mixes in Jars, which offer different flavor profiles for quick and tasty plant-based meals.
6. 100% Teff Ethiopian Injera (GF)
The inclusion of 100% Teff Ethiopian Injera in our top 13 list was a pleasant surprise, highlighting a demand for authentic, gluten-free ethnic recipes. Apparently, comprehensive and reliable Injera recipes are quite scarce across the internet! This traditional Ethiopian flatbread, made entirely from nutrient-rich teff flour, offers a unique spongy texture and a distinct, slightly sour taste that is perfect for soaking up flavorful stews and curries. A dedicated blog reader even shared an authentic Injera recipe involving several days of fermentation and intricate steps, a true culinary project. While the thought of embarking on such a culinary adventure is tempting, the convenience of having an Ethiopian restaurant just seven blocks away often wins out! Nevertheless, this recipe provides an excellent starting point for those keen to explore homemade Injera.
7. BBQ Lentil Veggie Burger with Mango Carrot Slaw
Bringing a taste of summer to your plate, this BBQ Lentil Veggie Burger with Mango Carrot Slaw is an absolute sensation. It even comes complete with a recipe for a homemade barbecue sauce, ensuring maximum flavor and a truly authentic taste. This burger allows for incredible customization – feel free to add as many vibrant veggies as your heart desires! The process involves finely ricing your chosen vegetables (a Blendtec works wonders!), lightly roasting them, and then combining them with perfectly cooked lentils, a harmonious blend of spices, and crunchy sesame seeds. The result is a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying patty that truly screams “yum!” This year truly was the year of incredible burgers and sandwiches, and this one definitely stood out for its fresh, summery appeal.
You might notice a recurring theme of burgers set against a dark background in my photography. This isn’t a deliberate choice because I knew they’d look aesthetically superior (though they certainly do pop more on black than on white!). Rather, living in Seattle, where cloudy days are the norm, trying to achieve a perfectly white background in photos often led to exasperation and, dare I say, a few new bald patches from sheer frustration! The black background simply provides a more consistent and forgiving canvas in challenging lighting conditions, allowing the vibrant colors of the food to truly shine.
8. Roasted Butternut Squash Slider with Balsamic Caramelized Onion and Sriracha Mayo
Just gazing at this magnificent creation, the Roasted Butternut Squash Slider with Balsamic Caramelized Onion and Sriracha Mayo, confirms its rightful place among the top 13. This beauty garnered immense popularity and has been recreated by countless home cooks eager to experience its unique flavor profile. The tender, naturally sweet roasted butternut squash perfectly balances the rich, savory balsamic caramelized onions, all tied together with a zesty kick from the sriracha mayo. It’s a sophisticated and incredibly flavorful vegan slider that truly impresses, proving that plant-based food can be both elegant and bursting with taste.
9. Sweet Potato Crepes Stuffed with Smoky Millet and Veggies (GF)
These Sweet Potato Crepes stuffed with Smoky Millet and Veggies offer a delightful and wholesome meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. The crepes themselves are incredibly delicious – soft, subtly sweet, and vibrant with the natural color of sweet potato. They can be enjoyed on their own as a light snack, but truly shine when paired with the savory, smoky millet and vegetable filling. This gluten-free dish provides a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and spices to create your own unique combinations, making this recipe a versatile base for culinary creativity!
10. Gobi Musallam – Whole Roasted Cauliflower (GF, Grain-Free)
Say “hello there gorgeous” to this stunning Gobi Musallam – Whole Roasted Cauliflower! This rich, decadent, and utterly impressive dish is an absolute must-make for any special occasion or when you simply want to treat yourself. Featuring a whole roasted cauliflower beautifully coated and bathed in a luscious, aromatic Indian gravy, it’s a true showstopper that delights both the eyes and the palate. As a gluten-free and grain-free option, it caters to various dietary needs without compromising on flavor or elegance. Prepare to impress your guests and your taste buds with this incredible vegan entree, showcasing the humble cauliflower in its most glorious form.
11. Cauliflower Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
Yes, these incredible Cauliflower Steaks with Mushroom Gravy have also captured the hearts of many and continue to be highly popular. Thick slices of cauliflower are expertly transformed into hearty “steaks,” pan-seared or roasted to golden perfection, offering a surprisingly satisfying and substantial texture that rivals traditional cuts. They are typically served with a rich, umami-packed mushroom gravy that elevates the dish to gourmet status, creating a truly comforting and flavorful meal. My husband even has his own delightful variation, topping charred cauliflower steaks with my spicy tomato chutney – an absolute yum, adding an Indian twist to this versatile dish! This recipe powerfully proves that vegetables can be the star of any meal, offering robust flavors and satisfying textures.
12. Potato Quinoa Patties with Sweet and Sour Chickpea Curry
This delightful combination of Potato Quinoa Patties with Sweet and Sour Chickpea Curry is a nostalgic favorite, reminiscent of my mom’s legendary “Tikki Chole” – absolutely slurpalicious! The crispy, flavorful potato and quinoa patties perfectly complement the rich, tangy, and subtly sweet chickpea curry, creating a comforting and incredibly satisfying meal that transports you straight to an Indian kitchen. It’s no wonder “Quinoa” remains a highly searched keyword, given its versatility and nutritional benefits evident in delicious and wholesome dishes like this. This recipe truly brings together the best of hearty comfort food with vibrant, authentic Indian flavors, making it a beloved staple.
13. Spiced Apple Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle
Rounding out our list of favorites is this incredibly easy yet deeply flavorful Spiced Apple Cake with Salted Caramel Drizzle. This comforting cake, redolent with warm spices and tender apple pieces, is made even more irresistible with a luscious salted caramel topping. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, simple enough for everyday baking but elegant enough for special celebrations. We even received the sweetest comment from a reader, Jori, who made this very cake for her daughter’s birthday, highlighting its universal appeal and joy-bringing qualities. This cake proves that vegan desserts can be both simple to make and utterly enchanting.
Explore More Vegan Delights and Future Favorites
If you’re as enamored with cauliflower as we are, you’ll be thrilled to discover even more creative and delicious Cauliflower Recipes on the blog here. Our archives are brimming with innovative ways to enjoy this incredibly versatile vegetable, from hearty main courses to delightful sides, proving its endless potential in vegan cooking.
In addition to these timeless favorites, several other recipes began gaining significant traction in the last two months of 2013, promising to be future hits and beloved staples. These include the hearty Portobellos stuffed with Harvest Chickpeas, a filling and savory option; the aromatic Quinoa Cauliflower Biryani, a flavorful and wholesome twist on a classic; the convenient Gingerbread Cake Mix in a Jar, perfect for quick, delicious treats; and the vibrant Palak Tofu (Spiced Tofu in Spinach Curry), a rich and nutritious Indian-inspired dish. Be sure to check them out for more inspiring plant-based meals that are sure to become new household favorites!
We’d love to hear from you! As we celebrate a year of incredible vegan cooking, growth, and advocacy, what was your absolute favorite vegan creation or recipe from 2013? Share your culinary highlights and personal reflections in the comments below! Your experiences and preferences help shape the future of our kitchen.
And with that, our comprehensive look back at 2013 comes to a close. Here’s to an even more delicious, impactful, and inspiring year ahead, filled with more delightful vegan recipes, personal triumphs, and continued progress for a compassionate world! We eagerly anticipate what 2014 will bring to our tables and our lives.