When you are going vegan, you might have to start with your pantry first. To cook vegan meals, find the ingredients and then get started. Dairy and meat are completely eliminated from a vegan pantry. So, the best way would be to find an alternative for these ingredients.
For example, if you take regular milk with your coffee every day, then go with almost or oat milk with your coffee. That way, you are just alternating the ingredients and not changing the essence of the meals. To cook vegan food, having all the right ingredients is important. You can obviously find different products to make cooking vegan, but there have to be some staples.
Here we will be including the must-haves for vegan cooking, which can be an alternative to your regular ingredients.
1. Alternatives to dairy products
Replace all dairy items with their plant-based counterparts for a seamless transition to veganism. Consider swapping your Greek yogurt for a vegan yogurt. Opt for nut-based milk as a substitute for traditional dairy milk. For condiments like mayonnaise, begin your journey with a plant-based alternative like veganaise.
2. Fruits and vegetables
Embracing a vegan lifestyle often begins with a focus on organic produce. Fruits and vegetables not only offer a vibrant palette of flavors but also a wealth of nutrients essential for optimal health. You can blend a mix of berries, bananas, and a splash of plant-based milk for a refreshing breakfast.
Frozen vegetables, on the other hand, are a convenient and time-saving option, especially for those with hectic schedules. They can be quickly sautéed with herbs and spices for a flavourful stir-fry or incorporated into soups and stews.
3. Grains
When you are going vegan, grains like rice, quinoa, and farro are not out of reach. So, you can easily add all the grains to your meals every day. These are filling, and you can use them in your meal prep every day.
4. Nuts and seeds
Nuts serve as a versatile ingredient to elevate your culinary experience. Incorporate them as a standalone snack or utilize them to enhance other dishes. Whether you’re enriching oatmeal or adding a crunch to your salad, their inclusion brings a delightful texture to the table.
To sum up…
Discovering vegan options is far from challenging. Your pantry likely already houses an array of plant-based staples. The key is to prioritize freshness for optimal flavor. This dietary approach also opens the door to culinary creativity, allowing you to experiment with diverse and delicious meals.
So, when you opt for a vegan lifestyle, you’re not just making an ethical choice; you’re also unlocking a world of culinary possibilities that are both satisfying and beneficial for your well-being.