Marinara sauce is a beloved condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. For vegans, finding out if their favorite sauces are animal-free can be a challenge.
Subway, the popular sandwich chain, recently made headlines by launching a vegan version of their signature Meatball Marinara sandwich. But what about the marinara sauce itself? Is it vegan-friendly?
In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients in Subway’s marinara sauce and answer the question on every vegan’s mind: is Subway marinara sauce vegan?
Is Subway Marinara Sauce Vegan?
The good news for vegans is that Subway’s traditional marinara sauce is indeed vegan-friendly. The sauce is made from a simple blend of tomatoes, plant oils, garlic, onions, and a few spices in their most basic form. This means that the sauce is free from any animal products.
However, it’s important to note that not all variations of marinara sauce are vegan-friendly. Some brands may add ingredients like cheese or meat broth to their marinara sauce, which would make it unsuitable for vegans.
When it comes to Subway’s other sauces, it’s worth noting that their BBQ sauce is not vegan-friendly as it contains animal products. While it’s unclear which specific non-vegan ingredients are used in the sauce, classic BBQ sauce recipes often include anchovies or honey.
On the other hand, Subway does offer a range of vegan-friendly sauces, including Garlic Aioli, Sriracha Hot Chilli, and Sweet Onion. These sauces can be used to add extra flavor to your sandwich without compromising your vegan lifestyle.
What Is Marinara Sauce?
Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce that is widely used in Italian-American cuisine. It is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices. The sauce is known for its simplicity and can be made quickly on the stove top in under 30 minutes. Marinara sauce can be used as a dipping sauce or with any type of pasta, including spaghetti and vermicelli. The sauce can also be used with meat or fish, and variations may include olives, capers, spices, or a dash of wine. While marinara sauce and spaghetti sauce share many of the same ingredients, spaghetti sauce takes it to the next level by adding proteins and/or vegetables to create a heartier sauce. It’s important to note that not all variations of marinara sauce are vegan-friendly, as some brands may add ingredients like cheese or meat broth. However, Subway’s traditional marinara sauce is vegan-friendly as it only contains plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients In Subway’s Marinara Sauce
Subway’s Marinara Sauce is a vegan-friendly sauce that is made from a simple blend of tomatoes, plant oils, garlic, onions, and a few spices. The ingredients used in the sauce are all in their most basic form and do not contain any animal products. The tomatoes used in the sauce are typically tomato passata or pasta sauce, which is a type of tomato puree that has been strained to remove the seeds and skin.
The plant oils used in the sauce are typically olive oil, which is a common ingredient in many Italian recipes. Olive oil adds a rich flavor to the sauce and helps to create a smooth texture. Garlic and onions are also used in the sauce to add flavor and depth. These ingredients are often used in Italian cuisine and are known for their ability to enhance the flavor of dishes.
In addition to these basic ingredients, Subway’s Marinara Sauce also contains a few spices. Italian seasonings, including basil, oregano, and thyme, are added to the sauce to give it a classic Italian flavor. Salt and pepper are also added to taste.
Animal-Derived Ingredients To Watch Out For
If you’re a vegan, it’s important to be aware of animal-derived ingredients that may be hidden in seemingly vegan foods. Here are a few ingredients to watch out for when ordering at Subway:
– Cheese: Subway offers a variety of cheese options, but none of them are vegan-friendly. If you’re ordering a sandwich, make sure to ask for no cheese.
– Meat broth: Some marinara sauces may contain meat broth as a flavor enhancer. However, as mentioned earlier, Subway’s traditional marinara sauce is vegan-friendly.
– Honey: While not an ingredient in marinara sauce, honey is often used in other Subway sauces like BBQ sauce or Sweet Onion. If you’re ordering one of these sauces, make sure to ask if it contains honey.
– Gelatin: While not an ingredient in Subway’s sauces, gelatin is often used as a thickener in desserts and candies. If you’re looking for a sweet treat at Subway, make sure to check the ingredients for gelatin.
It’s always best to double-check with the staff at Subway if you’re unsure about any ingredients in your food. By being aware of potential animal-derived ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious meal that aligns with your vegan values.
Vegan-Friendly Alternatives To Subway’s Marinara Sauce
If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly alternative to Subway’s marinara sauce, you might want to try their Buffalo or BBQ sauce instead. While these sauces are typically associated with meat-based dishes, they can add a delicious kick to your plant-based sub.
Another option is to create your own marinara sauce at home using simple ingredients like canned tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This way, you can control the ingredients and ensure that your sauce is vegan-friendly.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try adding some vegan cheese or meatless meatballs to your sub for an extra burst of flavor. Just be sure to check the ingredients list beforehand to make sure they’re free from any animal products.
Tips For Ordering Vegan At Subway.
If you’re a vegan looking to grab a quick bite at Subway, there are plenty of options available to you. Here are some tips to help you order a delicious and satisfying vegan meal:
1. Choose the right bread: Subway offers several vegan bread options, including 9 Grain Wheat, Hearty Italian, Italian white bread, Roasted Garlic, Sourdough, Spinach Wrap, Tomato Basil Wrap, Habanero Wrap, and Wheat Wrap. Be sure to check with your location to see which options are available.
2. Load up on veggies: All of the raw veggie fillings at Subway are vegan, so feel free to pile on as many vegetables as you like. Some great options include shredded lettuce, tomatoes, green peppers, red onions, cucumbers, spinach, olives, pickles, jalapeños, and avocado.
3. Choose your sauce wisely: While Subway’s traditional marinara sauce is vegan-friendly, their BBQ sauce is not. However, there are plenty of other vegan-friendly sauces to choose from, including Garlic Aioli, Sriracha Hot Chilli, and Sweet Onion.
4. Consider the Veggie Patty: If your location offers it, Subway’s Veggie Patty is a great vegan option for a more substantial sandwich. Be sure to double-check with the manager to ensure that it is vegan-friendly.
5. Don’t forget the sides: Many of Subway’s chips are vegan (just be sure to check the ingredients), and you can also add avocado for an extra cost. And if you’re looking for something sweet to finish off your meal, Subway’s apple slices are a great option.
By following these tips and being mindful of your choices, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying vegan meal at Subway.
