BBQ parties are set to become a whole lot more exciting for vegetarians. While veggie burgers and sausages have been around for years Monday will see the launch of the UK's first ever cauliflower and mushroom BBQ steaks. The launch, by Tesco, comes at a time when demand for vegetarian food is on the rise. In the last year the supermarket has seen sales for chilled vegetarian ready meals soar by nearly 20 per cent.

Tesco food developer Alison Stokes who developed the new range said: “Vegetarian customers have told us they often feel they can be an afterthought at BBQ parties and if they're lucky they might be able to find some corn on the cob or halloumi.

“We've decided to help by creating the UK's first ever cauliflower and Portobello mushroom steaks which we believe is an irresistibly delicious option that not only to vegetarians but also to meat eaters.  

“The cauliflower steak comes with a zingy lemon and garlic drizzle while the portobello mushroom comes with a sumptous peppercorn sauce. 

“Cauliflower steaks and portobello mushroom burgers are already very popular in trendy restaurants around the country and in recipes from celebrity chefs such as Jamie Oliver but this is the first time they've ever been available in high street supermarkets.”

Cauliflower has become one of the food trends of the past few years thanks to the huge trend for spiralising vegetables as a low carb alternative to rice and couscous.

It's a perfect vegetable for any meat eater embracing a variable diet. By cutting the cauliflower into steak sized chunks and pan frying an amazing meaty caramelised flavour develops.

Not only that but cauliflower is rich in Vitamin C, low GI and naturally gluten free.
Portobello mushrooms are equally delicious and filling and are also low in calories, fat-free, cholesterol-free and very low in sodium.

Like all fruits and vegetables, mushrooms are naturally gluten free, and make a nutritious addition to a gluten-free diet.
Adding mushrooms to vegetarian meals add a meaty texture, savory flavour and deliciousness.
 
Also being launched this week as part of Tesco's new prepared vegetables BBQ range are Halloumi Kebabs, and Mega Potato Wedges.