Of all of the articles I’ve posted so far, the one at has been viewed, liked and commented on the most (by far) is A Manly Vegan Meal. And here’s the upshot- women think veggie-loving men are sexy and more men are embracing a plant-based lifestyle. It’s a win-win!

I thought it was about time to post another of my husband’s favourite dinners and let’s face it – nothing is more manly than the barbeque. Even guys who never cook will brag about their prowess around the almighty outdoor grill. And as we head towards warmer weather, I start thinking about moving the cooking outdoors to spare heating up the house.

These Portobello “Steak” Burgers are easy to make, delicious and very satisfying. I whipped up a batch of homemade BBQ sauce to slather on top of them and I caramelized some onions just to make them extra masculine….grrrr….; ) They are perfect for summer pool parties and cookouts and even your meat-loving pals will enjoy the hearty bite of these thick and juicy burgers.

I applaud you openly-veggie loving, unabashedly greens-munching and healthy plant-eating men. As one fellow food blogger posted on my site “Bless our brave vegan men who show their strength through compassion.” Amen sister.

Portobello Steak Burgers

6 Portobello mushroom caps (stems removed)
6 whole grain hamburger buns
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp tamari
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Combine vinegar, oil, tamari, mustard, basil, salt and pepper in a shallow dish with a lid. Place mushroom caps in the marinade and swish around to cover. Marinate in the fridge overnight.

Prepare grill by preheating and brushing on a bit of olive oil. Discard marinade. Place mushroom caps on grill and cook for 5 minutes per side until tender.

Caramelized Onions
1 tbsp olive oil
2 medium onions, sliced

Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, cover and cook 10-15 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

I medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups of tomato sauce (I used Eden Organic brand)
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup molasses
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 – 1 tsp smoked paprika (adjust depending on how smoky you like your sauce)
Dash cayenne pepper

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until tender. Add in garlic and cook for 2 minutes longer. Add remaining ingredients and heat to simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes. Pour into blender and whir until smooth.

I also sliced up some beefsteak tomatoes and ripped up a head of lettuce to add to the burgers. Feel free to experiment your favourite toppings as desired. Enjoy!