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Basics of Vegan Cooking for a Regular Foodie
Honest take away? Vegan cooking requires a lot of creativity and a willingness to experiment.
As more and more people are choosing to adopt a plant-based lifestyle, vegan cooking has become increasingly popular even among meat-eaters too, as individuals focus on saving money and reducing their consumption of meat products.
If you’re new to veganism or simply interested in exploring new culinary options, it can be daunting to know where to start. Fear not, as this beginner’s guide to vegan cooking will provide you with all the basics you need to know to get started on your vegan culinary journey.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what veganism entails. Veganism is a lifestyle that seeks to reduce harm to animals and the environment by avoiding all animal products. This means no meat, fish, dairy, eggs, or honey. But that doesn’t mean that vegan cooking has to be bland and boring. In fact, there are countless delicious and nutritious plant-based options available.
One of the most important aspects of vegan cooking is understanding the role of protein. Many people believe that a vegan diet lacks protein, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of plant-based sources of protein, including beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, and seitan. It’s important to incorporate these protein sources into your meals to ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Another key component of vegan cooking is understanding how to substitute animal products. For example, instead of using butter in your cooking, you can use vegan margarine or coconut oil. Instead of using cow’s milk, you can use plant-based milks such as almond, soy, or oat milk. There are also numerous vegan cheeses available, made from ingredients such as nuts and soy.
When it comes to flavor, herbs and spices are your best friends. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can add a burst of freshness to any dish, while spices such as cumin, paprika, and turmeric can add depth and complexity. Experiment with different flavors and find what works best for you.
