I talk to my mom nearly every day, and even though our food preferences differ (or, perhaps, because of it), we often find ourselves discussing meals. Recently I asked her what I should have for dinner. She said, “Well, I don’t know … I always plan my meal around the meat”. Her response reminded me that most people I know plan their meals this way. In fact, my sister-in-law, who is making the migration from omnivore to vegan, finds this one of her biggest challenges. At first glance, the vegan diet can seem like merely a collection of side dishes. But seasoned vegans and vegetarians know it is so much more!
When, after talking to my mom, I’m longing for something like the traditional home-cooked meals I grew up with, I have several favorites that are easy to make and offer a hearty entree with a traditional side:
1. Coconut tempeh (from reFresh), sweet potato fries and pan fried asparagus.
2. Grilled blackened tofu with onions, broccoli and red peppers. (Recipe to come this spring!)
3. Chickpea patties (from Veganomicon), mashed cauliflower (healthier than mashed potatoes, see below for recipe) and a green salad with a vegan ranch dressing.
Mashed Cauliflower
Ingredients:
1 head of cauliflower, boiled until soft
1/4 to 1/3 cup of veggie broth, depending on how thick you want them
2 or 3 Tbsp of Earth Balance
1 Tbsp of Nutritional Yeast
2 cloves of garlic, minced
optional: fresh chives for garnish
Directions:
Put all ingredients into your food processor and blend until completely smooth. Garnish with chives and serve.
What are your favorite traditional or comfort vegan meals?
