Summer is the hottest season, and it’s only getting hotter. As temperatures soar, backyard wildlife faces numerous challenges in finding water, shade, and nourishment. Extreme heat can mean heatstroke, overexertion, and even death for these animals.

We can support animals and help them endure the heat by taking a few simple steps. Here are some effective ways to ensure the well-being and survival of backyard wildlife during scorching weather.

Young Starlings bathing in a bird bath / Source

Water is the most important element in keeping animals cool and hydrated when the temperatures rise. You might be familiar with birds visiting bird baths, but they aren’t the only ones who benefit from having access to clean water.

Animals like squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, toads, opossums, raccoons, skunks, deer, and foxes will all appreciate a cool sip on a hot summer day. Even insects like bees and butterflies need access to water, often returning to the same source daily once they find it. You never know who will surprise you by stopping off for a sip of water. 

Help backyard wildlife survive the heat with these water tips:

• Place shallow water dishes or birdbaths throughout your yard to provide a reliable water source for wildlife.

• Ensure the water is replenished regularly to prevent stagnation and evaporation.

• Add stones or branches to the water feature to provide safe landing spots for birds and insects.

• Installing a small fountain or dripper can attract a wider range of species and create a refreshing oasis.

RELATED READING: How to Help Pollinators

Cooper’s Hawk standing in a bird bath / Source

Birdbaths are a simple way to add a reliable water source to your yard. You can purchase a pre-made bird bath or make your own. All you need is a container, a cleaning brush, and water.

• A bird bath can be made from any container that can hold water. To accommodate both large and small species, choose a variety of containers with different depths. Choose containers no bigger than 3 inches deep for smaller birds and size up for larger ones. Add extremely shallow dishes for butterflies, bees, and insects to sip from. If your container is too deep, add a layer of rocks to the bottom for birds and insects to stand on while drinking.

• While you can use any container, try to choose one where the interior is textured. Much like you would if the bird bath was too deep, add a layer of rocks to the bottom if you can’t find a textured container. This will help the birds get a foothold while in the bath.

• Set up your birdbath near shrubs or trees, or select locations with easy access for animals to find shelter to avoid predators.

• Keep it clean! Regularly cleaning bird baths is necessary for the summer to keep the water fresh and healthy and prevent mosquitos from breeding in the standing water. Use a stiff scrubbing brush to remove bird droppings and algae from the inside of the bath, rinse and refill with fresh water.

• Add moving water. Moving water attracts birds due to the splashing and reflections on the water. “The sound of moving water like a stream or even water slowly dripping into a basin or against a rock or foliage will attract many species of birds,” says Mark Kiser, Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail coordinator. The moving water also helps slow algae growth and discourages mosquitoes from breeding.

Shade-filled garden / Source

Many animals will seek shelter during the hot times of the day to help them cope with summer temperatures. Add shaded areas to your yard by creating tiered landscaping and adding vegetation along buildings for more shelter. “Native trees, shrubs, and vines are beneficial in the landscape to provide shade, shelter, and food for birds,” says Angel Wintrode, president of the Bi-State Wildlife Hotline of Missouri and Illinois. “A dense, fruiting shrub, for example, can provide all three at the same time.”

Place bird feeders in cool, shaded areas of the yard during summer. Doing so will keep birds more relaxed while feeding and prevent seeds and other foods from spoiling. If you can, place houses in breezy areas for additional cooling effects. Bird houses should also be mounted in shady locations with air holes to provide circulation.

Help backyard wildlife survive the heat with these shade-filled tips:

• Plant native trees, shrubs, and tall grasses to provide shade and shelter for wildlife.

• Consider creating a wildlife-friendly garden with dense foliage that provides cool and shaded areas.

• Strategically place rocks, logs, or brush piles to offer hiding places for small mammals, reptiles, and insects.

• Erect birdhouses or nesting boxes in shaded areas to provide bird refuge during the day’s hottest hours.

Raccoon stopping by for a snack / Source

Offering food to wildlife during hotter temperatures is super important for their survival. Here’s why it makes a big difference: When it gets really hot outside, natural food sources can become scarce because plants and insects struggle to thrive. Providing extra food like seeds, juicy fruits, or sweet nectar ensures that wildlife has something to eat even when their usual food supply is limited. This helps them stay energized and healthy, which is crucial for their overall well-being.

Some of these foods, like juicy fruits and nectar, can also keep them hydrated. Finding enough water can be tough for animals during scorching weather, so offering water-rich foods helps them stay refreshed.

You can help backyard wildlife survive the heat by putting out food because we’re not only helping wildlife stay nourished, but we’re also attracting different species to our backyard, which is pretty important for promoting biodiversity. This creates a balanced environment that can better handle the challenges of climate change, helping wildlife adapt to changing conditions.

So, let’s lend a hand and fill those feeders!

While most people associate the backyard ritual of grilling with foods like meat or fish, a growing number of people are leaving meat off of their grills in favor of plant-based alternatives. If you aren’t familiar with plant-based cooking, it might be challenging to know what to grill when you’re not grilling meat.

Do you need help navigating a meatless grilling season? Here are a few unique ideas to keep the meat off your grill.

Avocados are a fantastic choice for grilling, transforming into a delectable treat when placed on the grill. The creamy texture of avocados becomes even more indulgent when heated, offering an incredibly satisfying buttery consistency. Grilling also brings out the natural flavors of avocados, unveiling their nutty and subtly smoky undertones.

These fruits are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which promote heart health and are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut.

To grill, cut the avocados in half and remove the seed. Brush each half with olive oil and grill face down for two to three minutes on each side until lightly charred. Top with salsa, enjoy with tortilla chips, use them in guacamole, stuff them with a salad or grilled vegetables, or eat them with a spoon. You can also enjoy them as a side dish, topping for burgers, or incorporated into wraps and tacos; grilled avocados elevate the culinary experience with their enticing flavors and wholesome properties.

Celery root, also known as celeriac, offers a unique and earthy flavor that becomes even more pronounced when grilled. Grilling celery root enhances its flavors and adds a subtle smoky note and a pleasant charred texture while preserving its nutritional value.

And speaking of nutrition, celery root is a low-calorie and low-fat vegetable, making it a healthy choice for grilling. A one-cup (156 grams) serving of raw celery root contains approximately 66 calories and only 0.6 grams of fat. Additionally, it is a good source of dietary fiber, providing around 3.8 grams per cup.

Peel and slice the celery root into thick rounds or wedges to prepare it for grilling. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings before placing them on a preheated grill. The grilled celery root can be enjoyed as a delicious side dish, topped with herbs and spices, or incorporated into salads and other recipes for added depth and complexity.

Grilling pizza is a fantastic way to create a delectable, smoky flavor profile that adds a delightful twist to this beloved dish. Whether you prefer a classic veggie extravaganza or a deluxe vegan meat pizza, the grill offers a unique cooking method that enhances the taste and texture of your favorite pie.

When it comes to nutrition, grilling pizza can have some advantages. You can achieve a crispy crust by grilling the pizza dough while using minimal oil compared to traditional oven-baked pizzas. This can help reduce the pizza’s overall calorie and fat content, making it a healthier option. Additionally, grilling allows the toppings to meld together, intensifying their flavors without excessive use of vegan cheese or oils.

Start by brushing the grill with a bit of oil. Roll or stretch the dough on the grill and brush the top with more oil. Grill for a few minutes, then flip the dough. Load your pizza with fresh vegetables, such as juicy tomatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and tender mushrooms. Add some fragrant herbs, like basil or oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil for a burst of flavor. Then continue to grill until the crust and toppings are fully cooked.

Grilled vegan pizzas can be a nutrient-rich option, packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber while satisfying your cravings for a satisfying meal.

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, grilled polenta is super tasty, and using pre-made polenta can help save time in the kitchen. Grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch to the polenta. It creates a golden, crispy exterior that contrasts with the creamy interior, resulting in a mouthwatering texture combination.

From a nutritional standpoint, polenta is naturally gluten-free and a good source of complex carbohydrates. It provides dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Additionally, it contains essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Polenta is also low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Grilled polenta can be enjoyed in various ways. To make, cut pre-made polenta into rounds. Brush both sides with olive oil, dust with salt and pepper, and grill for 5 – 10 minutes or until a golden crust forms. Serve it as a side dish, cut into wedges, or as a base for a flavorful vegan entrée. It pairs well with roasted vegetables or even topped with fresh herbs.

Grilled polenta offers a delicious and nutritious option that will satisfy your taste buds and dietary needs.

Grilling portobello mushroom caps is a delightful way to elevate your meal. These meaty and flavorful mushrooms become even more savory and satisfying when cooked on the grill.

From a health perspective, portobello mushrooms provide several benefits. They are low in calories and fat, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. Additionally, they offer a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety. Portobello mushrooms are also a natural source of B vitamins, such as riboflavin and niacin, which support energy production and contribute to overall well-being.

To make, soak them in one of these marinades for grilled vegetables or a marinade of your choice for 30 minutes. Lightly score the top of each cap before grilling. This allows the steam inside the portobello to escape, which helps mushrooms to cook evenly, creating a lovely sear.

Grilled portobello mushroom caps can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They make an excellent burger substitute, providing a hearty and flavorful base for toppings. Alternatively, they can be sliced and used in wraps, salads, or as a side dish.

Grilling romaine lettuce is a beautiful way to transform this leafy green into a mouthwatering dish. The grill’s heat imparts a smoky flavor and adds a delightful charred texture, taking the humble lettuce to new heights.

Regarding nutrition, romaine lettuce is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing essential nutrients for healthy vision and immune function. Romaine lettuce is also rich in vitamin K, which supports bone health and plays a role in blood clotting.

Wash a head of romaine lettuce and slice it down the center to create two halves. Place each half face down and grill for 5 minutes, then flip and grill for 5 minutes. Top with a creamy dressing like this Creamy Sesame Dressing or other creamy dressing of your choice, grilled vegetables, and big, crunchy toasted croutons. It’s salad, elevated.

Vegetable skewers are a delightful way to showcase various vegetables’ vibrant flavors and solid nutritional benefits. Grilling vegetables brings out the natural sweetness and smoky undertones of the vegetables.

Vegetable skewers provide a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. The assortment of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onions, offer a range of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and provide antioxidant properties. Additionally, the fiber promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.

Choose a mix of fruits and vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, mushrooms, peppers, or slices of corn on the cob. Layer between cubes of seitan, tofu, tempeh, or fruits like grapes, peaches, or pineapple. For a citrus twist, add lemon or lime quarters to the skewers. Grilling will soften the tartness of the fruit and add a great citrus flavor to the skewers.

It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled plant proteins or grains. These skewers satisfy the taste buds and nourish the body, making them a delicious and nutritious choice for a well-rounded meal.

Veggie burgers have a bit of a bad reputation because of their beginnings as being quite terrible-tasting, but that’s a thing of the past. No meatless grill would be complete without this plant-based staple. With endless combinations of ingredients and spices, there’s a veggie burger to please every palate. You can make your veggie burger or find one pre-made in the grocery store’s freezer section.

RELATED READING: Vegan burgers, hotdogs, ribs, and sausages

From a health perspective, veggie burgers can provide numerous benefits. They are typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than meat-based burgers, which can support heart health. Additionally, veggie burgers often contain a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness. Pair them with whole-grain buns and colorful toppings for a well-rounded and nutritious experience.

Since barbequing is a big part of grilling season, I can’t give you a grill post without offering you a good sauce to slather all over your favorite foods. I’m not that mean!

Here is a basic barbecue sauce recipe you can tailor to suit your tastes. Don’t worry if you’ve never made your own sauce at home before; the recipe will walk you step-by-step and give you everything you need to know.

So, what’s going on your vegan grills this season? I want to know! Tell me in the comments below!

Exploring the great outdoors is the perfect way to learn about the incredible variety of wildlife that calls our planet home. For kids, the natural world is a treasure trove of adventure and possibility, with something new and fascinating to discover around every bend.

Here are five outdoor activities parents can enjoy with their children as they explore and learn about the local wildlife.

Child using cell phone to watch and photograph birds / Source

Birdwatching is a fun and exciting activity that children can enjoy with their parents. It’s a great way to spend time together while exploring nature and learning about different types of birds. You only need a pair of binoculars, a bird guide, and a sense of adventure to get started!

The first step is to choose a location to observe birds in their natural habitat. A local park, nature reserve, or backyard can be great places to start. Once you arrive, take a few moments to look and listen for birds. You may hear their songs or calls before you see them.

You can get a closer look at the birds and observe their behavior using binoculars. Look for unique features such as their colors, size, and shape. You can also take note of their movements, such as how they fly, hop, or walk.

With the help of a bird guide, you can identify the different types of birds you see. The guide will provide information about the bird’s habitat, diet, and behavior. It can also help you distinguish between similar-looking birds.

As you continue to birdwatch, record the birds you see. You can create a journal or checklist to document the different species you observe. This can be a fun way to track your progress and learn more about the birds in your area.

With a bit of patience and curiosity, birdwatching can be a rewarding and educational activity for children and their parents. Remember to always respect the birds and their environment. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.

Butterflies drinking from a bath / Source

Butterfly gardening is an excellent way for children to learn about the importance of pollinators and the lifecycle of butterflies. Parents can help their kids plant a butterfly garden with flowers that attract butterflies and caterpillars. Kids can learn how to identify different types of butterflies, track their migrations, and observe their lifecycles, from egg to larva to chrysalis to adult.

Butterfly gardening can also help kids learn about the importance of biodiversity and how different plant and animal species rely on each other for survival. By planting native plants, children can help support local ecosystems and ensure that butterflies have the resources they need to thrive.

To start a butterfly garden, choose a sunny spot in your yard and plant various nectar-rich flowers such as coneflowers, zinnias, and butterfly bushes. You can also add host plants like milkweed, attracting butterflies to lay their eggs and providing food for the caterpillars.

As you tend to your garden, you can observe and learn about the different types of butterflies that visit, such as the monarch, swallowtail, and painted lady. Children can keep a journal to track the other species they see and learn about their unique characteristics and life cycles.

Butterfly gardening also provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability. By creating a habitat for butterflies, you’re helping to support local populations and protect their natural habitats.

In addition to being a fun and educational activity, butterfly gardening is a great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Spending time in nature has been shown to have a calming effect on children and adults, making it a perfect activity for families to enjoy together.

Bee house / Source

Making a bee house is a fun and easy activity to do with your children. Not only will it provide a safe space for bees to nest, but it also gives children the opportunity to learn about the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem. To make a bee house, you will need materials such as a wooden block, a drill, and some bamboo or reed stalks.

First, select a wooden block at least 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. Drill several holes into the block about 3-4 inches deep. Make sure the holes are spaced out and not too close together. Next, cut some bamboo or reed stalks into small pieces that fit into the drilled holes.

Hang the bee house in a sunny spot protected from wind and rain. Carefully place the bamboo or reed pieces into the holes, ensuring they are snug and won’t fall out. Bees will love their new home and help pollinate your garden.

It’s important to remind your children never to touch or disturb the bees and always give them space. By making a bee house, you are helping protect our pollinators and teaching your children about the importance of conservation and environmental awareness.

Children learning about nature / Source

Citizen science is an exciting way for families to come together and contribute to scientific research. By participating in citizen science projects, families can learn about the environment and animals and how to collect data like scientists. Citizen science projects can be done anywhere, from the backyard to a nearby park or even on vacation.

Some popular citizen science projects for families include birdwatching, counting butterflies, and identifying different types of plants. Families can also participate in projects that involve monitoring water quality or tracking the migration patterns of birds. By participating in these projects, families can learn about the world around them and contribute to necessary scientific research.

Parents can help their kids get involved in these programs by providing the necessary tools and resources, such as field guides and observation journals.

Citizen science is an excellent way for families to bond and spend time together while learning about the environment and scientific research. It’s also an opportunity for parents to model a love of learning and curiosity for their children. By participating in citizen science projects, families can create memories that will last a lifetime while making a meaningful impact on the scientific community.

Family cleaning up trash on a beach / Source

There are many different types of events, including beach cleanups, park cleanups, and other community events. Getting involved in local cleanup events can be a fun and educational activity for families. It’s a great way to teach children about the harmful effects of litter and pollution while also helping to protect wildlife and their habitats.

By participating in these events, children can learn about the importance of reducing waste and how they can make a difference in their local environment. Parents can talk to their kids about the impact of litter on wildlife and help them understand the importance of keeping their community clean and safe.

One of the best things about volunteering for cleanup events is that it’s a hands-on learning experience. Kids can see firsthand the impact that litter and pollution have on their environment, and they can play an active role in making a positive change. Children can help keep their local environment clean and safe for wildlife by picking up trash and recycling.

In addition to teaching kids about the importance of environmental stewardship, volunteering for cleanup events is also a great way to spend quality time together as a family. It’s a fun and rewarding activity that can bring families closer together while positively impacting the world around them.

So if you’re looking for a meaningful and educational activity with your family, consider participating in a local cleanup event. It’s a great way to make a difference while creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Often called the first greens of spring, ramps are among the earliest plants to emerge in the new season. Look for them at farmer markets from April through May or sometimes early June.

That means one thing; it’s ramp season!

Botanically known as Allium trioccum, ramps are a member of the allium (onion) family native to North America, particularly in the Appalachian regions.

These delicious plants live in rich, moist soil and forest environments, shooting up big, green leaves in spring that eventually give way to white blossoms.

They’re pretty beautiful in wooded settings.

A wooded hillside filled with ramps / Source

Ramps can be a divisive topic depending on who you’re talking to. Harvesting them sustainably has become a controversial subject among foragers and connoisseurs alike.

The problem and foremost concern, since seeds can take 6 to 18 months to germinate, and the plants themselves can take 5 – 7 years to produce seeds, is over-harvesting.

If you plan to forage independently, you should follow a few sustainability guidelines.

Avoid harvesting from small, immature, or flowering plants. Don’t dig them up by the roots. Instead, take only half of each clump, and replant the rest and its rhizome (roots). And aim for ten percent or less of the entire plant.

Foragers are also encouraged to scatter ramp seeds on their patches to replenish them in the fall.

Or, avoid the problem entirely by growing them at home.

Are you a real ramp lover? You may want to attend one of the many springtime ramp festivals held yearly in the U.S.

The community of Richwood, West Virginia, holds the annual “Feast of the Ramson” every April. Sponsored by the National Ramp Association, it’s described as “the granddaddy of all Appalachian Ramp Feeds.” Legend believes that the first public ramp feed began from a private meal attended by thirteen ramp lovers.

The Polk County Ramp Tramp Festival was founded in 1958 by 4-H club members who” tramped” up Big Frog Mountain to enjoy a hike on a spring day and a ramp meal. The Annual Ramp Festival in Waynesville, North Carolina, is now in its 85th year. One of the oldest ramp festivals in the United States is the “Cosby Ramp Festival” in Tennessee. This large festival has attracted as many as 30,000 visitors, and former President Harry Truman even attended.

Here in Ohio, an annual Ramp Up Pennisula happens in April of every year.

And these are just a few of the festivals held annually. Check local listings for events or festivals in your area.

Fresh ramps with roots at a farmers market / Source

Because they have a short growing season, you won’t find ramps in the market year-round. They will appear first in their southern range in late March, with the season finally ending in the far north in early June.

When buying them, look for unblemished, bright green leaves with slender white stalks. Once home, store the plants unwashed and wrapped tightly in a plastic bag in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for around four to five days. 

If you have ramps with the bulb still attached, place them in a glass or jar with water covering the roots. You can store them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresher longer. With either storage method, remember that fresh is best, and you should use your ramps sooner rather than later.

Storage note: These plants have a bold, pungent smell that earned them the nickname “King of Stink.” Wrap them in multiple bags to prevent the strong garlic odor from affecting other foods. Wash them thoroughly in cool water before use.

Cooking ramps isn’t complicated. Because of their bold flavor, they work well in various recipes. Try replacing onions, scallions, or green onions with ramps, roasting or grilling them, pickling them, adding them to soups or stews, in pesto, and on pasta, and they make an excellent pizza topping.

They are incredibly versatile.

 Wild Garlic & Asparagus Risotto / Lovely Jubley

I have big plans for ramp season this year that include making delicious-looking Ramp Focaccia. In fact, researching ramp recipes for this article has led me to a lot of amazing and creative ways to use ramps.

Here are a few that I think you’ll want to try for yourself.

• Ramp Spaghetti
• Vegan Ramp Butter
• Ramp & Sorrel Risotto with Red Quinoa
• Grilled Potato & Ramp Salad
• Asparagus, New Potatoes, and Vegan Wild Garlic Pesto

Have you tried ramps? Have you ever foraged for them in a forest? I want to hear your story—tell me in the comments!

Disclosure: Gratitude and thanks to Book Publishing Co. for graciously sending me a copy of Crafting Seitan for review. All opinions expressed are mine and not influenced in any way by the receipt of goods or services. I will always notify you when a product has been given to me for review, use, or to talk about.

Let’s dig into Chef Skye’s cookbook, Crafting Seitan. There’s a lot to talk about.

First things first, the aesthetics of the book.

The book has a muted color palette using browns and greens with maroon and dark blue accents that work well. It sets the perfect neutral backdrop for the full-color photos, allowing them to stand out.

Recipe pages are in a clean, easy-to-follow format with an introduction and detailed preparing instructions. Most of the recipes have photos of the finished dish included. Chef’s notes and additional instructions on shaping or finishing the meats stand out inside colored boxes on recipes as needed.

As someone with vision impairments, I appreciate the soft off-white of the pages and adequately-sized, easy-to-read text with good spacing.

As for more practical matters, the book is broke out into the following sections:

• Essential Tips and Techniques

• Chikun

• Beaf

• Porq

• House Specials

• Individual Hand-Rolled Sausages

• Hard Sausages

• Seasoning Blends and Rubs

• Gravies, Sauces, and Glazes

• Incidentals and Extras

Vegan pepperoni from Crafting Seitan / Source

One of the things that I like about Crafting Seitan is the wide variety of recipes.

If you’re new to seitan, you’ll be surprised how versatile this protein-packed ingredient can be. Yes, there are burgers and sausages, but there are also drumsticks, lunchmeats, steaks, holiday roasts, and everything in-between.

Even if you’re unfamiliar with the cooking techniques, the instructions are clear enough for those with little to no cooking experience.

In regards to cooking times, these recipes need a lot of it. Not in the preparation of the ingredients but more in the cooking and curing portions of the recipes. These are not your 30-minute or less weekday meal recipes; they’re the plan-ahead and have on-hand meats to create meals around.

Finally, let’s talk ingredients.

You’ll need vital wheat gluten for every recipe in this book. While there are a few special ingredients like beet and mushroom powder, most are common ones you can find in well-stocked grocery stores.

You may even already have them in your pantry.

After reading through Crafting Seitan, I decided to make the Vegan Pepperoni from the Hard Sausages chapter. I had pizza on my mind.

Putting the ingredients together and forming them into the two packages was easy enough. So was cooking them in a pressure cooker for an hour. Once done, I cooled them before storing them in the fridge for eight hours to optimize their texture and make them easier to slice. Easy.

The next day I made some pizza dough in the Vitamix. Yes, you can do that. Once I had my dough, I topped it with onions and slices of the finished pepperoni and tossed it in the oven to bake.

Vegan pepperoni pizza / Source

This opinion might be personal, but one of the best things about pepperoni is how it crisps up when cooked, each round delicately cupping a tiny pool of grease. And to be honest, I’ve always found store-bought vegan versions a bit lacking in this way.

That’s why I wanted to test out this recipe. Can homemade vegan pepperoni beat the store-bought versions?

It just might.

This pepperoni was firm and toothy, just like I expected it to be. Rich with flavor, I could really taste the smoky paprika mixed with the fennel seeds. I like a lot of heat and spices in my food, so I’d bump up both the fennel and the crushed red pepper the next time I make it.

But does it crisp when cooked? Happily, yes. They even curl a little as their non-vegan counterparts do. The key is to slice them as thin as possible.

I’m pretty happy to add Chef Skye’s latest offering to my cookbook collection for a few reasons.

First, I like that I can choose the type of oil I use and the amount of salt, something I’m unable to do with store-bought vegan meats. Second, the cookbook is incredibly versatile; whatever meaty thing you like, it’s in there.

Finally, the recipes feel familiar, comforting even. I grew up eating the schnitzel my oma made, and I’ve missed it. Even more so now that my oma has passed away. Now I have a vegan schnitzel recipe to make whenever I want to feel closer to my family.

I like that.