Are Chef Chew’s Vegan Ribs Good?
Yes, Chef Chew’s Kitchen Smokehouse Beefy Ribs are one of the best packaged vegan ribs you can buy.
They’re smoky, tender, and packed with over 37 grams of protein per pack.
They cook quickly, taste amazing, and work with almost any flavor or dish.
Why I Tried Chef Chew’s Smokehouse Beefy Ribs
I’m always hunting for flavorful, satisfying vegan mains—something that’s not overly processed but still exciting to eat.
I found these Smokehouse Beefy Ribs by Chef Chew at Whole Foods Market and had to try them.
Made by Chef Chew, the mind behind the restaurant, Chef Chew’s Kitchen (known as Better Chew Kitchen) in Vallejo, these 100% plant-based ribs look surprisingly realistic for a vegan meat.
Let’s just say, I’ll be picking up more.
Who’s Behind It: The Story of Chef Chew
Chef Chew, also known as Gwynn Chew, is the heart behind Chef Chew’s Kitchen.
His mission is to make plant-based comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste or tradition.
As a Black vegan chef, he’s deeply passionate about bringing soul food into the plant-based space.
These ribs are part of that vision—hearty, flavorful, and made for everyone.
I hope I get a chance to visit Chef Chew’s Kitchen in Vallejo, CA. But in the mean time, if you find yourself in New Orleans, make sure to check out this vegan soul food restaurant!
What Makes These the Best Vegan Ribs?
Flavorful Right Out of the Package
These ribs come pre-seasoned and ready to cook.
They’re smoky and meaty, with a good amount of salt already built in—so keep that in mind if you’re adding sauces.
I recommend using salt-free sauces if you’re dressing them up.
I ate mine dry, just pan-fried with no extra sauce, and it was still packed with flavor.
Honestly, any sauce could take these to the next level.
Try BBQ, Thai peanut, Korean gochujang, teriyaki, or something creative like a miso-maple glaze.
Super Versatile in the Kitchen – Serving Tips
These ribs are way more flexible than they first appear. You don’t have to keep them BBQ-style to enjoy them.
Here are a few ways I’ve used them:
- Dry with Rice and Seaweed – simple, salty, and super satisfying
- Chopped into Fried Rice – adds protein and a smoky depth
- Tossed in Stir-Fried Veggies – with Thai basil or Korean chili sauce
- Sliced Over Pasta – creamy or tomato-based, both work
- In Tacos or Wraps – with avocado and pickled veggies
And yes, they’d be perfect for a backyard BBQ plate with grilled corn and coleslaw, if that’s your vibe.
Texture That’s Meaty—but Not Dense
The texture really surprised me.
It’s not dense like real meat, but it has a tenderized, hearty chew that feels satisfying in every bite.
The inside stays soft even without sauce, and the outside crisps up nicely in a pan or air fryer.
It’s not chewy or rubbery like some other plant-based meats can be.
Instead, it has a tender, almost slow-cooked feel that makes it easy to cut, tear, or bite into.
Nutrition: Over 37g of Protein per Pack
One of the standout things about these ribs is the nutrition.
Each 7 oz package packs over 37 grams of plant-based protein.
That’s an incredible boost for anyone looking to add more protein without animal products.
It’s not just about flavor, texture, or versatility—these ribs actually help you meet your nutrition goals, too.
How to Cook These Vegan Ribs (Fast & Easy)
Cooking these ribs is fast and flexible:
- Air Fryer: 400°F for 6–8 minutes
- Pan Fry: Medium heat, 3–5 minutes per side
- Oven: 375°F for 10–12 minutes
I didn’t use any oil or sauce, just heated them dry, and they were still full of flavor.
If you’re adding sauce, go light—these ribs already come with a solid seasoning base and are pretty salty on their own. Salt-free sauces are best.
The only downside is that you need to defrost them first. The package recommends thawing before cooking, so it’s not a straight-from-the-freezer meal.
So it’s not one of those straight-from-the-freezer kind of meals. Just something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for instant dinner with zero prep.
The Bottom Line: Are These the Best Vegan Ribs?
Honestly, yes!
They’re flavorful, meaty, protein-rich, and easy to cook.
Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a standout main for a plant-based cookout, Chef Chew’s Kitchen Plant-Based & Chef-Made Smokehouse Beefy Ribs bring the kind of taste and texture that keeps things exciting.
Even dry, they held up beautifully with rice and seaweed.
But they’d also be great in saucy stir-fries, wraps, tacos, or BBQ plates.
These ribs take plant-based cooking to the next level—with no extra effort on your part.
But this isn’t just about what’s on your plate.
Chef Chew is also showing up in schools and communities—bringing plant-based options to places where they really matter.
How is Chef Chew’s Impacting Schools
Chef Chew is doing more than just creating delicious plant-based ribs. His brand, Better Chew, is also making waves in school cafeterias across California.
Chef Chew’s company has partnered with several school districts to bring healthier, plant-based options to students.
The products are designed to be not only nutritious but also kid-approved, proving that healthy eating can be fun and satisfying for everyone.
His work in schools is just one part of the bigger mission. The brand behind these ribs—Something Better Foods, Inc.—isn’t your average food company either.
Something Better Foods, Inc. & Public Benefit Corporation Status
Did you know Chef Chew’s products are made by Something Better Foods, Inc., a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC)?
This means they are legally committed to balancing profit with a positive social impact.
The company focuses on creating healthy, affordable, plant-based food solutions that are accessible to all people—regardless of background or income level.
It’s a brand with purpose, striving to make plant-based eating more sustainable and available to everyone.
I love that Chef Chew’s mission aligns so well with my own values of health, accessibility, and ethical eating!
And if you’re checking out the packaging and wondering why it sometimes says Chef Chew and other times Better Chew—you’re not the only one.
Chef Chew vs. Better Chew Packaging: What’s the Deal?
If you’ve seen packages labeled Chef Chew’s Kitchen and others that say Better Chew, you’re not alone—it’s not just you.
To be honest, I am not sure if both brands are being marketed for different brands or if the brand is transitioning from one to another.
I’ve written to the company to inquire and will update here as soon as I hear back.
But what I know right now is that both are the same brand and the items overlap.
For now, depending on where you shop, you might find either label on store shelves.
Same great vegan ribs, just with a similar, yet different name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts: Are They Worth It?
Yes—100%. These are some of the best vegan ribs I’ve ever had.
They’re flavorful, protein-packed, and made with purpose.
Chef Chew’s Smokehouse Beefy Ribs reflect his mission to bring plant-based comfort food to everyone without compromising on taste or tradition.
If you’re looking for a plant-based option that’s bold, filling, and ready in minutes, Chef Chew’s Smokehouse Beefy Ribs are definitely worth trying.
I love that I can keep them simple and dry, or elevate them with global flavors, depending on my mood.
Whether you pair them with rice, stir-fry, or pasta, they’re a versatile addition to any meal.
The flavor is bold, the texture is satisfying, and the protein content makes them a top choice for those who want plant-based protein without sacrificing taste.
This is the kind of product that makes plant-based eating easy, fun, and full of possibilities.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a reflection of Chef Chew’s commitment to bringing soul food to the plant-based world.
For me, this is one of those plant-based staples I’ll always have on hand for easy meals—whether I’m at home or on the road.
It keeps vanlife cooking stress-free and full of flavor.
A true simple bliss, in perfect harmony with the dolce far niente spirit.
Save and Share this delicious and healthy plant-based ribs review.
And now, something totally unrelated but too fun not to share…
Totally Random But Totally Want Them
Nope, I don’t own these. But every week I stumble across a few random Amazon finds that are too fun, quirky, or useful-looking not to share. I might not need them… but I kinda want them. And maybe you will too?
24 Pcs Sandwich Cutter and Sealer or Pancake Maker
I don’t need it. But also… maybe I do?
This tool turns your bread into crustless sandwich pillows. Kind of like DIY Uncrustables, but way cuter.
If you make snacks in a tiny kitchen or van, this might be the upgrade you never knew you wanted.
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