Eddie Jackson gives a new twist to the game day menu, interview

Over the years, Food Network fans have learned that Eddie Jackson knows about game day food. While his cookbook Game-Day Eats has numerous recipes that will score a win for all the sports fans, Jackson appreciates that recipes and dishes sometimes can get a twist or two. Now that ultimate game day, big cheat day, can score with even more food options for everyone at the table.

During a recent conversation with Jackson as part of his partnership with Sweet Earth, he spoke to FoodSided about game day eats, some simple swaps and a few plant-based recipes that everyone will want to enjoy. Since food trends often impact the food on the table, Jackson has shared some simple advice.

Jackson calls the annual “Big Game” celebration the “ultimate cheat day” because the football game is usually associated with a lot of eating. But, he suggested that everyone consider swapping out some ingredients in traditional big game recipes. It is one of the reasons why he partnered with Sweet Earth.

Specifically, Jackson encourages people “to step out of that comfort zone.” While that swap seems simple, it comes back to one important factor. When food tastes good, pushing people to try something new isn’t a big stretch. As long as that first bite delivers a satisfying flavor, it is a win for everyone.

And, Jackson’s biggest piece of advice was simple. Don’t tell them about the plant-based food swap till after they eat it. It can make those preconceived notions go away, especially after they enjoy the flavor.

Eddie Jackson believes taste scores a win with game day eats

As many people start to think about those game day eats, Jackson has created a variety of flavorful, satisfying recipes that swap in the Sweet Earth Plant-Based Chik’n. While the recipes borrow from favorite dishes and flavors that people love, the plant-based twist fits into an ideal of balance.

While Jackson is welcoming presence on Food Network, he has long touted the idea of a balanced lifestyle. The former football player and personal trainer believes that balance should be the key word to guide people’s choices.

Although many people try to employ drastic changes at the start of year, Jackson has long supported that concept of “conscious effort.” That idea of finding the swap, having the salad but also having the cheat meal, is the method that he believes is sustainable.

In many ways, that idea is what drives his recipes that he created for Sweet Earth. For example, the Vegan Pulled Chipotle Chik’n Sliders are a new take on the classic game day eats. With a sweet, spicy chipotle maple sauce, the flavor entices with the first bite. Packed with veggies, everyone will notice the flavor and texture, not necessarily the plant-based food swap.

The key to all of Jackson’s recipes is that layered flavors. It is a signature to all this game day eats. While still approachable to a range of preferences, these recipes prove that plant-based food can be more than just a burger or a hot dog.

Plus, these recipes fit into a key element for game day eats. Jackson believes that the menu should be filled with handheld, easy to eat options. No one can cheer that epic play if they are balancing a big plate with messy food. Easy to eat, handheld food is a key to any football watching party.

In addition to the Vegan Pulled Chipotle Chik’n Sliders, Jackson has a few more recipes featuring Sweet Earth. From Mindful Chik’n Stuffed Peppers to Gochujang Chik’n Molasses Egg Rolls, these dishes prove that plant based food can be incorporated global flavors, favorite recipes and a variety of other dishes. All it takes is a willingness swap in a new ingredient and drive the flavor for a win.

Eddie Jackson can be seen on various Food Network shows and he is the author of Game-Day Eats.

Sweet Earth Foods believes in the concept of “never stop tasting.” For more information on its products and availability, please visit the brand’s website and social media accounts.