Veganism is exploding in the USA. A recent Gallup poll suggests that up to 5% of Americans now identify as vegan, with an additional 7% identifying as vegetarian. There are many reasons for this rise but it is likely due to the increased awareness about the unethical treatment and murder of animals in factory farms, the environmental impact of animal agriculture, and healthier eating habits.
Another large group that is largely ignored in this debate is those following a high-raw vegan diet. The raw part refers to eating unheated foods (above 118 degrees F). As well as health benefits, many also see this as the most ethical and compassionate way of living.
In addition, veganism is popular around the world with celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Brad Pitt, Bill Clinton, and Al Gore, sporting plant-based diets. Obesity rates are rising worldwide while at the same time food supply is becoming increasingly industrialized and unethical (such as the expansion of palm oil plantations in South America).
Many people love eating meat but hate harming animals. Unsurprisingly many people are turning to a more plant-based diet and veganism is no longer seen as extreme.
About Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is a popular steakhouse franchise that has spread across North America, the UK, and Australia with over 1000 outlets to date. Customers can expect high-quality steaks at competitive prices in an atmospheric setting. There are several restaurants in the UK, centered around the London area.
All steakhouses have their roots in America and have been spreading ever since across North America and beyond, with many Australian’s claiming that they invented it! The concept is simple – a menu dominated by steak cooked to your liking. A wide variety of side dishes are also offered. All steaks are served with a choice of fries, rice, or baked potato – this is included in the price. If you want something else, there are salads and veggies available too along with the soup. Desserts include ice cream sundaes to complete your meal.
Outback Steakhouse has developed an interesting concept of sharing dishes. This offers diners some choice, as well as trying a bit of everything on the table.
The formula seems to work – it is stylish and interactive, with friendly staff who relate well to the customer. The steakhouse has made its name by offering quality food at low prices (for Manhattan) with an attractive atmosphere.
Everything Vegan At Outback Steakhouse (2023)
Outback Steakhouse has introduced vegan meals to its menu. Customers can now enjoy vegan burgers, pasta, and ribs in addition to the wide range of tasty salads which are already on offer. However, it will come as no surprise that all desserts (ice cream sundaes, etc) are still non-vegan – for this, you would need to visit an independent ice cream parlor.
This is great news for vegans and vegetarians alike. It means that no matter where you happen to be dining out, vegan options are becoming more readily available – which is taking the pressure off the host. The move follows an increasing trend of veganism in societies around the world, especially among young people.
There is no doubt that vegans and vegetarians will benefit from this, as well as anyone simply curious about veganism. However, we should remember that Outback Steakhouse is a business and it won’t hurt to ask them why they didn’t go the whole hog (excuse the pun) and provide purely vegan options!
Continue Reading: Vegan Options at Burger King
Vegan Menu Options at Outback:
- Baked Sweet Potato (Plain or with chives)
- Baked Regular Potato (Plain or with chives)
- House Bread (the free one) without butter
- Steamed broccoli without butter
- Mixed Vegetables without butter
- Grilled Asparagus (see below)
- Cut Fresh Fruit (Kids Menu side)
- House Salad (No Croutons or Cheese)
- Oil & Vinegar Salad Dressing
- Tangy Tomato Dressing
- Mustard Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
What About Outback’s Fries, Bloomin’ Onion, etc?
None of them are vegan as Outback uses Beef-lard/Tallow as oil rather than vegetable oil, and thus everything fried from Outback is non-vegan. It’s not even vegetarian.
So what should a Vegan do at Outback Steakhouse?
Grilled asparagus is delicious and cooked to perfection. It doesn’t need butter or any other sauce that usually comes with it, because it tastes amazing plain! And for those of you that don’t know what grilled asparagus is, it’s asparagus cooked on the grill. The grilled asparagus has just the right amount of crunch complemented with a subtle smoky flavor that makes you want to keep eating more!
The mixed vegetables are also cooked to perfection and taste amazingly plain. They’re in a thinner sauce, but still, have that little extra flavor you don’t get in the steamed veggies.
The steamed broccoli tastes great with or without butter, it’s not drowned in oil which is nice too!
Outback has salads that you can order with no croutons or cheese, and any dressing you want. There is also the House salad that comes with every meal (included in price) – unfortunately, this isn’t vegan, but it’s a nice addition to your meal since they also give you two sides of bread with butter when you sit down!
If there are options for fries or onion rings, they come with an oil and vinegar dip and ketchup.
Must Read: Vegan Options at Fatburger
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can vegans eat here?
Yes! Many vegan foods are available at Outback. Just make sure to omit butter and cheese from your order.
What is the vegan burger made from?
The veggie patty in the Outback Veggie Burger is a mixture of vegetables and brown rice. This is topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, pickle and served on a bun. And it’s delicious!
What about dessert?
Unfortunately, Outback doesn’t offer any vegan-friendly desserts at the moment. However, if you want some ice cream, just ask for it without whipped topping and marshmallows!
Read More: Vegan Options at Round Table Pizza
Conclusion
The future is bright for vegans, especially when it comes to dining out. There are more and more vegan options popping up all around us! Outback Steakhouse offers vegan customers more choices than they ever had before. Their marketing strategies mean it is more and more likely that we will see vegan foods on menus across America. They aim to be a place where everybody can go and have a good time. This is not only the case for vegans but also for those who are lactose intolerant or even allergic to gluten/wheat.
