Hey y’all!
Today, I’m bringing some Southern goodness to the kitchen with a Vegan Low Country Boil—and yes, you heard me right! No seafood, no meat, but all the flavor. Inspired by Big Sean’s plant-based journey, I wanted to challenge myself to create a soulful version of this iconic dish, minus the animal products. This was my very first time making it, so come cook along with me—and let’s turn this boil into a celebration of veggies and bold seasoning!
(If you enjoyed this post and want to try out the same ingredients and tools I use, feel free to check them out below!
These are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work 💛
- 7.5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven: https://amzn.to/4dcUqms
- Lodge Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Skillet: https://amzn.to/3TyyMSA
- Bamboo Seasonings Box with Mini Spoon: https://amzn.to/4dfHzA6)
🥦 VEGAN BOIL INGREDIENTS
Veggies You’ll Need:
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Broccoli florets
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Organic carrots (cut like Grandma used to!)
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Zucchini, chunked
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Yellow squash, chunked
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Large Portobello mushrooms, quartered
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About 6 potatoes, halved
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Corn on the cob
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1/2 onion (save the other half for the sauce)
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Half a lemon (adds brightness!)
Savory Broth Base:
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2.5 cartons of chicken-style broth (plant-based, of course)
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1 bag of crab & shrimp boil seasoning (I used Crackers brand)
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2 bay leaves
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Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste
Plant-Based Protein Goodness:
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Tofurky Apple Sage vegan sausage
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Smart Menu vegan meatballs
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Plant-based butter (for frying)
👩🏾🍳 HOW TO MAKE THE VEGAN LOW COUNTRY BOIL
1. Start the Broth:
In a large pot, add your chicken-style broth, crab boil seasoning bag, and bay leaves. Bring it to a strong boil to let those spices release flavor.
2. Prep & Layer Your Veggies:
Wash everything clean. Start chopping—carrots, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, potatoes—then add veggies to the pot in this order:
Carrots → Mushrooms → Squash → Potatoes → Corn → Onion → Lemon.
Let simmer until veggies are tender and infused with that broth.
3. Crisp the Protein:
In a skillet, melt some plant-based butter. Add the vegan sausage and meatballs, frying them until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Set them aside for the grand finale.
4. Check for Doneness:
Poke a potato with a fork—if it’s soft, you’re good to go!
🧈 BLEND UP THAT VEGAN SMACKALICIOUS SAUCE
This sauce right here? It's the flavor bomb. Rich, bold, spicy (if you like), and 100% vegan.
What You’ll Need:
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Earth Balance organic plant butter
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Pickled ginger & its juice (check your local Asian market)
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Minced garlic
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Chicken-style broth
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Pickled Vidalia onions (with mini red bell peppers)
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Yellow bell pepper (optional)
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Chopped mushrooms with Italian herbs
Seasonings (Add to taste):
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp MSG or Accent (optional)
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Crushed red pepper flakes 🌶
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1.5 tbsp chili powder
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Cajun seasoning & cayenne (optional, for heat)
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2 tbsp paprika (that beautiful deep red!)
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1 tbsp granulated garlic
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1 tbsp granulated onion
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Fresh chili paste (optional)
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A splash of vinegar (optional)
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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Tabasco (optional)
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Sugar (a little sweet balance)
🔥 HOW TO MAKE THE SAUCE
1. Build the Base:
Melt your vegan butter in a pan. Add chopped pickled ginger and its juice.
2. Layer the Flavor:
Stir in the garlic, then pour in the broth. Let it bubble lightly.
3. Toss in Veggies:
Add the pickled Vidalia onions and bell peppers (if using). Let them cook down.
4. Spice It Just Right:
Add each seasoning one at a time, stirring in between. Trust me—it’s worth it.
5. Adjust Consistency:
Too thick? Add more broth or water from the veggie boil. Too thin? Let it simmer down.
6. Final Hit of Umami:
Stir in those chopped mushrooms with Italian herbs right at the end for that rich, deep flavor.
🍽 HOW TO SERVE YOUR VEGAN LOW COUNTRY BOIL
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Load up a big ol’ bowl with your boiled veggies
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Top with those crispy, golden vegan sausages and meatballs
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Drizzle (or drown!) in the smackalicious sauce
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Serve hot and enjoy every bold, soulful bite
💬 BLOVE’S TIPS & FINAL THOUGHTS:
This was my first ever vegan boil, and I gotta say—I surprised myself! Flavor on point, texture divine, and no need for seafood to make it satisfying.
🔸 Don’t like it too spicy? Leave out the hot stuff.
🔸 Can’t find certain ingredients? Swap them out—make it yours.
🔸 Make it for friends, for family, or just for yourself—it's a feel-good meal either way.
If you enjoyed this recipe or have tips to level it up, drop a comment below! I’m always learning and love hearing what y’all think—it keeps things authentic and real around here