Welcome to a Flavorful New Year: Celebrating Our Top Vegan Recipes of 2011!
As the calendar turns to 2012, we’re filled with anticipation for another year of culinary adventures, innovative plant-based creations, and connecting with our amazing community of food lovers. But before we dive headfirst into new recipes, it’s the perfect moment to look back and celebrate the dishes that truly captured your hearts and taste buds in 2011. This compilation features not only your most beloved reader favorites but also a few personal picks that hold a special place in our kitchen. Get ready to revisit some delicious memories and discover new inspirations for a vibrant year ahead!
We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support, enthusiasm, and willingness to explore the incredible world of vegan cuisine with us. Here’s to a year filled with delicious food, wonderful new friends, and countless joyful moments in the kitchen. Happy 2012, everyone!
Your Most Popular Picks: Reader Favorites from 2011
Our community has spoken, and these are the recipes that soared to the top, becoming instant classics and go-to meals for so many of you. From comforting snacks to delightful desserts, these dishes truly showcase the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based eating.
Irresistible Vegan & Gluten-Free Apple Fritters
Who knew a simple craving for something sweet and comforting could lead to such a sensation? These delightful Apple Fritters quickly became a breakout star in 2011, proving that incredible taste doesn’t require complicated ingredients or animal products. We simply had some crisp apples on hand and a spontaneous desire for a warm, sweet treat, and these fritters were born. They’re wonderfully fluffy on the inside, perfectly crisp on the outside, and infused with the natural sweetness of apples. It’s a simple recipe that delivers immense satisfaction, making it a perfect gluten-free indulgence for any time of day. Try them for breakfast, as a dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, and you’ll understand why they topped the charts!
Addictive Roasted Garam Masala Chickpeas (Gluten-Free)
Prepare to be utterly captivated by these Roasted Garam Masala Chickpeas – another incredibly addictive and naturally gluten-free snack that quickly became a fan favorite. We believe a significant part of their popularity stems from that perfect photo, taken on a gloriously sunny day with just the right camera settings, truly capturing their golden crispness. But beyond the visual appeal, these chickpeas are a flavor explosion! Perfectly seasoned with aromatic garam masala, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory spice in every bite. They’re fantastic on their own, sprinkled over salads, or added to wraps for an extra layer of texture and taste. This recipe proves that healthy snacks can be utterly delicious and hard to resist.
Decadent Vegan Tiramisu Pancakes
Some creations are so self-evidently delicious that they need little introduction – and our Vegan Tiramisu Pancakes are definitely one of them. This recipe took the internet by storm for good reason! Imagine the rich, coffee-infused layers of classic tiramisu reimagined in a fluffy, stackable pancake form. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and subtly bitter notes, making breakfast feel like a luxurious dessert. They’re perfect for a special weekend brunch, a birthday celebration, or any occasion where you want to impress and indulge. If you haven’t experienced the magic of these pancakes yet, you’re in for a truly delightful surprise that perfectly combines two beloved treats into one unforgettable dish.
Versatile Chilla / Puda: Chickpea Flour Pancake/Omelette (Gluten-Free)
Simplicity meets incredible flavor and versatility in our Chilla / Puda recipe, a popular gluten-free breakfast or snack that has become a staple for many. Made from chickpea flour, these savory pancakes are incredibly easy to customize and can be enjoyed in various ways – like a thin crepe, a fluffy omelette, or a thicker pancake. They’re naturally high in protein and a fantastic canvas for incorporating a multitude of vegetables. In fact, one of our resolutions for 2012 is to “Eat More Kale!”, and these chillas have been an excellent vehicle for adding more greens into our diet. They cook up quickly, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal anytime you need it. Discover the endless possibilities with this adaptable and wholesome dish!
Chewy Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
For those who adore a cookie with a delightful chew and a complex texture, our Chocolate Oatmeal Raisin Chewy Cookies were a runaway hit. What sets these vegan treats apart is the subtle inclusion of quinoa, which contributes to their unique chewiness and almost lace-like texture. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of comforting oats, sweet raisins, and rich chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying. They’re perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a comforting snack to brighten your day. These cookies are a testament to how simple ingredients, with a thoughtful twist, can elevate a classic to something truly special.
Wholesome Multigrain Multifruit Loaf
Embrace the goodness of nature with our Multigrain Multifruit Loaf, a dense and flavorful bread that packs a nutritional punch. This loaf combines the best of grains and fruits into one delightful package: strawberries, blueberries, and apples mingle with a blend of wheat, oats, and quinoa. The result is a wonderfully moist and hearty bread that’s perfect for breakfast, a wholesome snack, or even a light dessert. It’s incredibly satisfying and boasts a rich texture and natural sweetness from the fruits. This recipe proves that healthy eating can be both delicious and incredibly convenient, providing a delightful way to enjoy a variety of wholesome ingredients in every slice.
Vegan Gulab Jamuns: A Traditional Indian Sweet, Reimagined
The popularity of our Vegan Gulab Jamuns is easy to explain: this deeply addictive Indian sweet is traditionally made with milk powder and milk solids, fried, and then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup, akin to a rich, milky, soaked doughnut. For those adhering to a vegan lifestyle, this beloved dessert seemed out of reach – until now! Our veganized version captures all the authentic flavors and textures of the original, allowing everyone to enjoy this exquisite treat. They are incredibly tender, perfectly sweet, and infused with delicate spices, offering a truly indulgent experience. This recipe was a monumental hit because it opened the door for so many to enjoy a cherished cultural delicacy, guilt-free and compassionately.
Incredibly Fluffy White Vegan Dinner Rolls
While we typically gravitate towards whole-grain breads, the desire to recreate those melt-in-your-mouth dinner rolls – without butter or eggs – was too strong to resist. And so, these incredibly Fluffy White Dinner Rolls were born, quickly becoming a community favorite! This recipe yields a super versatile dough that can be transformed into soft dinner rolls, perfect burger buns, pillowy pitas, or even a delicious naan. Its adaptability is truly impressive! The fact that these rolls also made it to TheKitchn! speaks volumes about their quality and appeal. Prepare for a light, airy, and utterly satisfying bread that will become a go-to for many meals.
It’s worth noting that these “all-year most popular” lists can sometimes be a bit skewed, as newer posts haven’t had quite enough time to build up the same level of popularity. Nevertheless, they represent the absolute best of what resonated with you throughout 2011!
Our Personal Favorites: Recipes We Absolutely Loved in 2011
Choosing personal favorites is always a delightful challenge, like picking a favorite child among a family of delicious creations! However, these are some of the recipes that truly stood out to us, bringing immense joy to our kitchen and proving to be incredibly satisfying. We highly recommend giving these a try if you haven’t already!
Crisp & Chewy Oatmeal Puffed Rice Chocolate Chip Cookies (GF)
Inspired by an oatmeal-only gluten-free cookie recipe, we wanted to add an extra element of fun and texture to ours – and voilà, puffed rice was the answer! These Oatmeal Puffed Rice Chocolate Chip Cookies are a game-changer. The addition of puffed rice creates a unique texture, making the cookie both delightfully lighter and wonderfully chewy at the same time. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by that comforting soft chewiness, complemented by rich chocolate chips and wholesome oats. They’re a fantastic gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture, making them one of our absolute favorite cookie innovations from 2011.
Adorable Beet Oat Chickpea Sliders
These cute little patties might be small, but they are mighty in flavor and undeniably fun to make and eat! Our Beet Oat Chickpea Sliders bring together earthy beets, wholesome oats, and protein-packed chickpeas to create a vibrant and delicious mini-burger. Their beautiful color and hearty texture make them a standout dish, perfect for appetizers, party platters, or a light lunch. They’re incredibly satisfying and offer a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables in a playful format. Serve them on mini buns with your favorite toppings, and watch them disappear! These sliders prove that healthy food can be both nutritious and incredibly enjoyable.
Savory Tomato Wheat and Sprouted Quinoa Flatbread
This savory flatbread was a true highlight in our kitchen – a fun, flavorful, and incredibly versatile bread that quickly became a household staple. Combining the goodness of tomato, wheat, and sprouted quinoa, it offers a hearty texture and a delightful taste. We absolutely loved using this flatbread for everything from delicious sandwiches to pairing it with our favorite dips. Its robust flavor profile makes it an excellent base for various toppings, and the sprouted quinoa adds an extra layer of nutrition and unique texture. If you’re looking for a homemade bread that’s both substantial and incredibly adaptable, this Tomato Wheat and Sprouted Quinoa Flatbread is a must-try.
Gourmet Tempeh Sandwiches with Grilled Fruits & Veggies
Elevate your sandwich game with these incredible Tempeh Sandwiches, a recipe that brings together bold flavors and delightful textures. The tempeh is first cooked in a spicy, aromatic broth, infusing it with deep, savory notes, then lightly grilled to perfection. Served with an array of grilled vegetables and, for an unexpected twist, grilled fruits – seriously, try some grilled peaches in your sandwich! – this dish becomes a gourmet experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy tempeh, showcasing its versatility and ability to absorb incredible flavors. These sandwiches are hearty, satisfying, and full of exciting contrasts, making them a personal favorite for a vibrant and fulfilling meal.
Light & Fresh Buckwheat Soba with Grilled Zucchini, Pesto, and Cherry Tomatoes
For a taste of summer, this Buckwheat Soba with Grilled Zucchini, Pesto, and Cherry Tomatoes remains a cherished favorite. It’s a simple, light, and incredibly refreshing pasta meal that comes together beautifully. The nutty flavor of buckwheat soba noodles pairs perfectly with tender, smoky grilled zucchini. Tossed with vibrant pesto and burst-in-your-mouth cherry tomatoes, this dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for entertaining. This recipe reminds us that sometimes, the most exquisite flavors come from the simplest, most wholesome combinations, delivering pure culinary joy in every forkful.
And let’s not forget the countless other favorite cookies and delightful breads that graced our kitchen! From crisp Pistachio Almond Thumbprints to fluffy Banana Muffin Tops, and unique Candied Beet Thins, there’s a whole world of sweet treats waiting for you under our dedicated Cookie tag! Additionally, our currently popular Naan recipe—available in plain, avocado, garlic, and stuffed variations!—continues to be a sensation. This virtual party, celebrating the best of vegan cuisine, is proudly hosted by our friends at Lite Bite.
Thank you all so much for your incredible support throughout the year. 2011 was a pivotal year for us, marked by our steady and unwavering transition to a fully vegan diet, a whole host of exciting culinary experiments, the discovery of new taste profiles, the joyful veganization of old favorites, and the creation of intriguing new combinations and recipes. The best part of it all has been seeing you try these creations and share your love for them!
May this new year, 2012, bring you an abundance of love, happiness, courage to pursue your dreams, prosperity in all endeavors, excellent health, and practical solutions to all your challenges. Here’s to a year of growth, joy, and delicious plant-based living!
As a final thought, we’d like to leave you with something truly heartwarming. Here’s a beautiful video on how to feed newborn orphan puppies, filmed by Erika at Animal Aid Unlimited in Udaipur, India. This incredible sanctuary is a haven for all beings. If you ever find yourself vacationing in India, we wholeheartedly encourage you to visit their sanctuary for a few days – whether to volunteer your time or simply to bask in the beauty of their compassionate work. They are also a 501(c)(3) organization in the US, meaning all donations are tax-deductible, allowing you to support their vital mission.
This post is part of a vibrant virtual blog party celebrating food and community. To join in the fun and explore other amazing contributions, please see event details at Litebite here.