Slovenian food tech startup Juicy Marbles introduces the world’s first plant-based ribs, complete with edible vegan bones, aiming to recreate the joy of eating meat without the environmental impact.
As a self-proclaimed barbecue virtuoso, the idea of replacing succulent ribs with a plant-based alternative didn’t exactly excite me. However, driven by my love for the planet and a desire to reduce my carbon footprint, I decided to give Juicy Marbles’ plant-based ribs a try. This Slovenian food tech startup claims to recreate the nostalgic experience of eating ribs while minimizing the negative environmental impact. With curiosity piqued, I fired up the grill and prepared to put these imitation ribs to the test.
Grilling the Imitation Ribs: Aesthetics and Texture
Juicy Marbles’ plant-based ribs impress with their appearance and texture on the grill, but do they live up to the real thing?
Upon receiving the package, I was pleasantly surprised by the resemblance the plant-based ribs had to their meat counterparts. The addition of edible vegan bones and beetroot juice for color helped create an authentic appearance. As I prepared the ribs for the grill, I found that they held up well, with the outer layer crisping to perfection. However, towards the end, the rack began to break apart, which was a minor setback. The overall cook time was approximately 10 minutes.
Taste Test: Flavors and Substitutes
Juicy Marbles’ plant-based ribs deliver succulent meat-like texture but fall short in replicating the complex flavors of real pork ribs.
The taste of the plant-based ribs was decent, reminding me of other soy-based products I’ve tried in the past. The texture resembled pulled pork more than traditional pork ribs, which was a minor qualm. Juicy Marbles’ patent-pending 3D assembly system, which layers proteins into linear fibers mimicking meat’s muscle structures, contributed to the meaty substance. The ribs also absorbed the spices and marinade well. However, the spoonfuls of sunflower oil added to the soy protein couldn’t replace the deliciousness of real pig fat, and the flavor profile felt unidimensional compared to the real thing.
Edible Vegan Bones: A Fun Addition
The edible vegan bones, although not perfect, add a playful element to the plant-based ribs experience.
The vegan bones, which have the same protein content as beef jerky, are meant to be fried or baked as a crispy snack. However, my attempt at air frying them left them chewy rather than crispy. Despite this, the bones remain a cool addition, adding an element of fun to the experience.
The Joy of Sharing: Bringing People Together
Juicy Marbles’ plant-based bone-in ribs aim to bridge the gap between meat-eaters and vegans, allowing everyone to enjoy the shared pleasures of a BBQ.
Juicy Marbles’ mission to recreate the primal joy of sharing food is where these bone-in ribs truly shine. Often, vegans and vegetarians feel excluded from the cultural traditions of BBQs due to the absence of animal protein. However, plant-based whole cuts like these ribs could unite everyone around the fire, fostering inclusivity and shared experiences.
The Potential Impact: Reducing Meat Consumption
Plant-based alternatives like Juicy Marbles’ ribs have the potential to reduce overall meat consumption, benefiting both the planet and our health.
Studies have shown that plant-based products with similar taste, texture, and price to processed meat have the best chance of replacing meat. While these alternatives may not turn carnivores into vegans, they can contribute to a reduction in meat consumption, which is crucial for addressing climate change and improving global health. Livestock farming is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and uses vast amounts of land and water resources.
Europe’s Shift Towards Plant-Based Alternatives
Europe leads the way in embracing plant-based alternatives, with the sector experiencing significant growth and meat consumption declining.
While the demand for plant-based meat declined in the US, Europe has seen a 49% growth in the plant-based food sector over the past two years. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands have witnessed a reduction in meat consumption, attributed in part to the rise of plant-based alternatives. The closing cost gap between conventional meat and plant-based options, along with the undeniable benefits of sustainability and health, suggests that plant-based whole cuts like Juicy Marbles’ bone-in ribs will become a common fixture at future barbecues.
Conclusion:
Juicy Marbles’ plant-based bone-in ribs offer a sustainable twist on a classic BBQ favorite. While they may not completely replicate the complex flavors and textures of real pork ribs, they provide a viable alternative for those looking to reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing the joy of shared meals. As Europe leads the way in embracing plant-based alternatives, the future looks promising for the growth and acceptance of these innovative products. With continued advancements in taste and affordability, plant-based whole cuts like Juicy Marbles’ ribs may soon become a staple at barbecues worldwide, bringing us one step closer to a more sustainable and inclusive food culture.
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