Vegans? Vegetarians?

[Katalina]

Hi - any other vegans or vegetarians out there? I was vegan wwaaaaayyy back in the '80s, but it was just too hard back then (people, even cool openminded people, looked at me like I had 3 heads!). I've come full circle, and now eat vegan food whenever possible, vegetarian if I can't get vegan.

Anybody else out there? :) :newbie:

[nycfem]

Me!!! Vegetarian with a vegan bent (believe in vegan).

[Linus]

Vegan with a raw bent here (trying to do more raw anyways). Btw, we do have a great thread here that might be useful: http://www.butchfemmeplanet.com/forum/showthread.php?t=121

[Katalina]

Yay! Vegan is a challenge sometimes.....especially if you don't feel like playing '3rd degree interrogation' with a waiter or whatever. :)

[Zimmeh]

I have people who look at me funny because I don't consume red meat or pork. I switched to Soymilk and watching how much processed food I consume.

Thank you for starting this thread!

Zimmy

[proximitywithoutintimacy]

I am... newly vegetarian.

Just trying it out, you know, giving it a chance... it's been a couple of weeks now...

[nycfem]

I've been veg (no meat/chicken/fish) for about 20 years, so if you have any questions or concerns or need suggestions I, and I'm sure others, are always happy to lend some support! So feel free to post anything anytime! I started out going veg in Ohio as a teenager, and it was very hard to do on my own. It really took awhile before it began to feel natural for me.

[2myladyblue]

*Smiles & waves to all the :veggie:
Ok, I'm not 100% vegan (or even vegetarian) anymore, but I was. First, when I was rebelling against my family(farm) as a teen, then, when I was laying the foundation for raising my own little anarchists/free thinkers. At this point, I'm probably more of a veg-positive omnivore (lol). I raised my toddlers as vegan circa 15 years ago (when it was still hard to find soymilk at the grocery store), but when they went to school & saw the other kid's lunch boxes, they started asking for sandwich meat (YUCK!!!). Although, my teenager has now come (almost) full circle & is (lacto-ovo) vegetarian. We eat vegan/vegetarian most of the time & have lots of great recipes/tips if that's what we're talking about. (I might have even posted some in that thread Linus mentioned....n'est-ce pas NYCfembbw?)

Welcome Katalina!
Proximity, :goodluck: & give it some time...are you feeling any different/better yet?
And "Hell-ooo" to anyone else I didn't mention.
Here are some quotes you might appreciate/enjoy....

Buddha: To become vegetarian is to step into the stream which leads to nirvana.

"For as long as men massacre animals, they will kill each other. Indeed, he who sows the seed of murder and pain cannot reap joy and love." -- Pythagoras (circa 582-507 B.C.)Greek philosopher, mathematician, mystic"Father of Vegetarianism"

I have from an early age abjured the use of meat, and the time will come when men such as I will look on the murder of animals as they now look on the murder of men. ~Leonardo da Vinci

"Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances of survival for life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet." ~Albert Einstein, physicist, Nobel Prize 1921

"I am in favor of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being." ~Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. President

"My refusing to eat meat occasioned an inconveniency, and I have been frequently chided for my singularity. But my light repast allows for greater progress, for greater clearness of head and quicker comprehension."~BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (1706-1790)American statesman, inventor and author

I have no doubt that it is a part of the destiny of the human race, in its gradual improvement, to leave off eating animals, as surely as the savage tribes have left off eating each other.... ~Henry David Thoreau, Walden, 1854

:byebye:

-Blue
:blueheels:

[nycfem]

Here's a vegan, healthier recipe for what I call "Kettlecorn granola"
It's so to-die-for delicious! I can't tell you amounts of things because I'm too ADD of a cook.

Pop organic popcorn in canola oil. Keep it warm.

In a separate bowl mix agave nectar, chopped almonds and pecans, sunflower seeds, sea salt, and butterscotch extract.

Use your hands to mix the thick syrup from the bowl into the popcorn. In terms of how much to put in, imagine granola, as opposed to, say- a peanut brittle bar.

Let it harden and dry. This makes it have a great crunch and keeps it from being at all messy.

I'm a big fan of salty and sweet together. And I always love popcorn!

[Star Anise]

Yep! I am a happy vegan. :wateringgarden:

[Dominique]

I am a vegetarian...not a vegan.

I do not like meat, it started when I was a baby. My father was a farmer, so he helped me with eating balanced veggies and fruits. I have in fact been about a 75% raw eater most of my life. I never liked milk or cheese as a child either. (my poor parents)

I like to cook, and do cook, but mostly eat raw and do ton's of green smoothies.

I don't find this way of life challenging at all.

[vegan_gypsy]

Hi! I'm brand new to this forum but wanted to say hello in this thread. Obviously by my username, I'm vegan. :) Vegetarian for about 8 years and have been vegan for about 4. My partner is vegan as well.

[stephfromMIT]

My fiancee is a "Seagan". She's vegan except for: seafood, egg whites.

[nycfem]

This made me think that I could call myself a decafetarian, because in addition to having no meat, chicken, or fish (for 25 years), I also have no caffeine / no chocolate. I added on the no caffeine / no chocolate seven years ago (I've always been sensitive to caffeine and was a complete chocoholic.). I also actually try not to even have decaf anything because decaf has traces of caffeine and the decaffeinating process is also unhealthy. When I'm my best self, I go with herbal. I am a pain in the ass for others to feed because I don't budge on my rules.

My fiancee is a "Seagan". She's vegan except for: seafood, egg whites.

[twinkletoes]

Vegetarian here :) Have been for nearly 6 years and can't imagine eating any other way!

[MissItalianDiva]

I am a Vegetarian and Vegan most the time without knowing it. Also pretty much only follow a diet that is primarily raw..again not by conscious decision just because that is the food I happen to enjoy.

[chefhmboyrd]

I eat vegetarians....
cows, chickens, and lambs....
but not pigs, unless it is bacon....
pigs are omnivores...

[easygoingfemme]

Vegetarian, mostly vegan but I do love eggs. And we raise honey bees, so we have the honey that they don't use :)
Once in a while I'll have a piece of fish if I'm craving it. I used to be extreme and have food rules but I've learned everything is better if I just eat what I want when I want it. Usually everything I want is plant based, but I'm a high protein needs person, so sometimes other cravings win over and I'm okay with that.

[ahk]

I have a question--

What is a good substitute for sugar? But not agave--

Thank you.

[nycfem]

Honey? Fruit juice? Fruit juice concentrate? Molasses? Sometimes I sweeten with actual fruit, like I add apple or raisins or dried cranberries. I even sweeten with vinegar. Be creative. There's also the option to do some cognitive reframing, as in, "Why don't I just let sugar go and not replace it with anything?"

Fake sugars kill us but there are Splenda and Stevia for example. They are better than Aspartame but still a menace to society in my humble opinion.

I have a question--

What is a good substitute for sugar? But not agave--

Thank you.

[easygoingfemme]

There are a variety of options, depending on how you want to use it.
Good liquid options are honey, molasses, maple syrup, brown rice syrup. Easy to swap for things like sweetening your coffee or tea.

Fruit purees are nice, cooked down apples, pears, pureed dates... nice for mixing into things like oats, granola bars, and other baking endeavors.

Baking, you can use the liquid sweeteners, you just need to add a little more of your solid/absorbent flour and what have you to soak it up. Or I like raw sugar/sucanot for baking when I don't want to tinker with texture. The raw sugar still contains some of the vitamins and minerals as well as fiber of the cane and makes the sugar metabolize a little bit better in your body.

[ahk]

Yeah I have been experimenting with all kinds of stuff lately--

Thank you, both, for posting your thoughts-- and ideas.

a.

[Angeltoes]

I have a question--

What is a good substitute for sugar? But not agave--

Thank you.
Agave is really high calorie. If you can find Xylitol and Sorbitol it's possible to bake with them but I think the the truth is that... slowly perhaps, you have to just adjust yourself to less of a sweet taste. It's not always easy but little by little anyone can adjust. I used to eat much sweeter food but then I decided that's just not the way food was meant to taste. Use fruit or whatever grows naturally to make it taste better.

[ahk]

What about Sucanat? Has anyone used it--

Also, what about different flours-- quinoa, coconut, spelt--

I have been using spelt for a months now, and I like it-- but I also picked up coconut and quinoa to try. What are your pros/cons about different flours?

[easygoingfemme]

Spelt is nice as an alternative to traditional wheat flour because it still has a natural "gush" about it that helps give a good texture when baking. However, it is a relative of wheat so if you are branching into new flours to avoid gluten, spelt may or may not be a good choice for you.

When you get into flours like rice, quinoa, oat, etc, the missing gluten is generally an issue because without tinkering with them you get crumbly dry baked goods. You generally want to cut those with something like potato flour or xanthan gum which helps bond the flour together same as how gluten acts in wheat flour.

I like Sucanat when I'm baking for someone else who is used to regular white sugar and I want to use a more natural sweetener but keep the texture consistent with what they are used to. You would just substitute it for the amount of white sugar you'd be using in equal portions and everything else in a recipe, if you are using one, would stay the same.

[veganswitch]

Started being vegan a few months ago and I have been enjoying it. Cooking more and enjoying meal time. A new adventure. I made sweet potato cinnamon rolls tonight.

[Sev]

Hi everyone, Great thread. I'm a strict vegetarian have been since I was 15. The past year have stopped eating eggs and fish. My partner is Vegan so I'm slowly leaning towards this, My body loves a Macro Diet. I also prefer rice milk to soy milk.

[Asari]

My purpose is to minimize suffering as best I can, therefore I'm a vegan.

[veganswitch]

Agave is really high calorie. If you can find Xylitol and Sorbitol it's possible to bake with them but I think the the truth is that... slowly perhaps, you have to just adjust yourself to less of a sweet taste. It's not always easy but little by little anyone can adjust. I used to eat much sweeter food but then I decided that's just not the way food was meant to taste. Use fruit or whatever grows naturally to make it taste better.

my friend swears by coconut sugar.

[NYCcatFemme]

Stopping by to say hello -- I am new to the Planet -- I was BklynFem on bf.com SOOO many years ago ;-) I have been hanging out on fb, but wanted to connect on a LBGTQ space. :ballcat::cat: NYC Cat rescue / foster Mom. I have been following a vegetarian way of life for about 7 mths, and eat very little dairy / fish .. I enjoy learning about new yummy products / foods and tips on nutrition.

Thanks!(f)

[arkham]

Hi - any other vegans or vegetarians out there? I was vegan wwaaaaayyy back in the '80s, but it was just too hard back then (people, even cool openminded people, looked at me like I had 3 heads!). I've come full circle, and now eat vegan food whenever possible, vegetarian if I can't get vegan.

Anybody else out there? :) :newbie:
Ive been vegetarian all my life and now I'm trying to eat vegan whenever possible I'm trying to eat less processed foods Being vegetarian is easy but vegan is a little more challenging for me

[cutiefemme]

Ive been vegetarian all my life and now I'm trying to eat vegan whenever possible I'm trying to eat less processed foods Being vegetarian is easy but vegan is a little more challenging for me

Same I'm vegetarian 100% of the time and vegan maybe half

[job]

Same here. I've been a vegetarian since I was 15. (26 years now.) I've tried going vegan twice, and it was a major fail, both times. I convince myself, I can't hang without cheese, yet I rarely eat any dairy when I'm not trying to go vegan. Third times a charm, maybe.

[job]

Also, just wanted to add if any vegan/vegetarians are going to the reunion I can let u know of some good places to eat as I am in Vegas.: )

[nycfem]

Can you post them? That would be awesome to know.

Also, just wanted to add if any vegan/vegetarians are going to the reunion I can let u know of some good places to eat as I am in Vegas.: )

[job]

My two favorite places to eat are Komol and Veggie House. Komol also serves meat so it's a good choice if it's a mixed group. It's in Commercial Center on Sahara at Maryland Parkway, which is east of the strip. Veggie House is in China town. It's on the second floor and there is absolutely no meat served. Veggie House is west of the strip. Komol is Thai and Veggie House is a mixture of Asian cuisine.
Nacho Daddy and Taco y Taco both serve meatless "meats". There are several Capriotti's sandwich shops around with veggie burgers, fake turkey, and veggie cheese steak. (I think the fake turkey is vegan.) Plus, several other places. Let me know if you have a specific interest and I'll answer as best I can.

[Rockinonahigh]

Since I became diabetic I have slowly changed my eating habits, I guess I am 80% on the vegan trail,20% a meat eater. Over that lase few months I have eaten less and less meat, not sure if it's the metformin I take for diabetis or just some change in my taste buds cause red meat just don't taste the same fish, chicken or dairy is still o.k. . Good thing I like veggies and to bad my son doesn't cause he is starting to get the 40 y. o. spread with the high possablity of diabetis but says he will deal with it if it happend's... Mr.Macho all the way.
Any way I'm reading this from top to the last post bit by bit and learning as I go, tk's for the good advice.

[catlady]

I've been a vegan for 7 years and still am! I never liked milk or meat, so it wasn't too difficult to become vegan. My girlfriend is slowly joining to become a vegetarian hehe.

[kittygrrl]

https://scontent.ford1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/7787_1075835519115322_7044327235440033691_n.jpg?oh =e5c99e6f02878ff97104d62af98bd317&oe=5711B260

Everything on the plate is vegan

[Gayandgray]

Ok, I need some help and I hope this is the right place to post this? I am very overweight, and I am wanting to get myself together and lose weight before I turn 50. I know that low carb diets work, because I lost over 100lbs following Atkins in the past. However, I'm really getting sick of eating so much meat!! And I've been reading about the stuff they feed the animals, chemicals, abuse the factory farm animals go through their entire lives, etc. I can't afford to buy only organic food and grass fed beef, but I really am wondering about what I'm actually putting in my body??? Growing up, I saw chickens living OUTSIDE, not inside. They ate grass and bugs and they took dust baths and they laid eggs and we ate them and that was fine by me. Nowadays I rarely see chickens outside. The farm across the road has them locked up inside these big chicken houses and they never see the sun. I don't know what the farmer feeds them? I'm just feeling like maybe I need to not focus so much on avoiding carbs and eating a lot of meat, but eating HEALTHY for awhile....... I have been craving fruits and veggies the past few days and the doctor my sister works for said that may be a sign I need the nutrients. I'm not saying I want to just become a vegetarian overnight, but I'd like to at least cut back a bit on meat and eat more healthy. In the past when I did Atkins I avoided tropical fruits and only ate berries once in awhile. Now I'm craving pineapple and mangoes. And I like putting bananas in my protein shakes with kale. I'm also thinking about trying this substituting cauliflower for potatoes thing? I hear a lot of people talking about it. I'm afraid of potatoes and pasta because I have no willpower and won't practice portion control!!!!!! I'm looking into maybe a lower carb vegetarian way of eating, if that makes sense? I'm sorry if this post seems like I'm rambling but I just needed to get this out somehow and don't want it to sound weird. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! :seeingstars::seeingstars:

[nycfem]

Hi, a great vegan, low carb, high fiber substitute for pasta is tofu shirataki noodles, available in all natural food stores / health food stores and sometimes even in regular grocery stores. A large portion is also less than 20 calories. I think they are delish.

Ok, I need some help and I hope this is the right place to post this? I am very overweight, and I am wanting to get myself together and lose weight before I turn 50. I know that low carb diets work, because I lost over 100lbs following Atkins in the past. However, I'm really getting sick of eating so much meat!! And I've been reading about the stuff they feed the animals, chemicals, abuse the factory farm animals go through their entire lives, etc. I can't afford to buy only organic food and grass fed beef, but I really am wondering about what I'm actually putting in my body??? Growing up, I saw chickens living OUTSIDE, not inside. They ate grass and bugs and they took dust baths and they laid eggs and we ate them and that was fine by me. Nowadays I rarely see chickens outside. The farm across the road has them locked up inside these big chicken houses and they never see the sun. I don't know what the farmer feeds them? I'm just feeling like maybe I need to not focus so much on avoiding carbs and eating a lot of meat, but eating HEALTHY for awhile....... I have been craving fruits and veggies the past few days and the doctor my sister works for said that may be a sign I need the nutrients. I'm not saying I want to just become a vegetarian overnight, but I'd like to at least cut back a bit on meat and eat more healthy. In the past when I did Atkins I avoided tropical fruits and only ate berries once in awhile. Now I'm craving pineapple and mangoes. And I like putting bananas in my protein shakes with kale. I'm also thinking about trying this substituting cauliflower for potatoes thing? I hear a lot of people talking about it. I'm afraid of potatoes and pasta because I have no willpower and won't practice portion control!!!!!! I'm looking into maybe a lower carb vegetarian way of eating, if that makes sense? I'm sorry if this post seems like I'm rambling but I just needed to get this out somehow and don't want it to sound weird. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! :seeingstars::seeingstars:

[Gayandgray]

Oh I have seen those even in Walmart but I didn't know what they were, exactly. Thank you!

[*Anya*]

I am on a low carb eating plan and if you figure out your total carbs for the day, you can include veggies and fruits.

I don't do a strict Atkins; just a low- carb, keto-ish type plan and really love it.

This list might be helpful and I included the website.


Vegetable List

Here’s a quick list of all the lowest carb veggies. Serving Size: 1/4 cup, unless otherwise indicated.

Vegetable | Net Carbs

Artichoke 6.9
Asparagus (6) 2.4
Beans, green 2.9
Beets 6.5
Bok Choy 0.7
Broccoli 1.7
Brussels Sprouts 7.6
Cabbage 1.1
Carrot 5.1
Cauliflower 1.5
Celery 0.8
Collard Greens 3.0
Cucumber 1.8
Eggplant 2.0
Garlic (1 clove) 1.0
Lettuce 0.5
Mushroom 1.0
Onion 4.0
Parsnip 9.0
Peas 6.5
Peppers, Green 3.4
Peppers, Red 3.3
Pickle (1 medium) 2.0
Pumpkin 6.3
Radish 0.5
Rutabaga 4.0
Spinach 0.2
Squash, yellow 1.4
Tomato 3.2
Turnips 2.3
Zucchini 3.3

Fruit Quick List

Serving Size: 1/4 cup, unless otherwise indicated.

Fruit | Net Carbs

Applesauce 6.2
Apricot (1 whole) 3.1
Avocado (1 whole) 0.5
Cantaloupe 3.0
Carambola/Starfruit (1 whole) 3.0
Cherries 4.2
Coconut 1.3
Grapes 6.7
Grapefruit (1 whole) 9.0
Honeydew 3.6
Kiwi 6.5
Lemon (1 whole) 3.8
Mango 6.3
Orange (1 whole) 12.9
Passionfruit (1 whole) 2.0
Peach (1 whole) 8.9
Pineapple 4.3
Plantain 12.0
Plum (1 whole) 7.6
Watermelon 2.6


Low Carb Berry Quick List

Here’s a quick list of all the lowest carb berries. Serving Size: 1/4 cup, unless otherwise indicated.

Berry | Net Carbs

Acai Berry (1 oz) 5.0
Blackberry 2.7
Blueberry 4.1
Boysenberry 13.0
Cranberry 2.0
Currant 4.0
Elderberry 4.0
Gooseberry 9.0
Huckleberry (3.5 oz) 8.0
Loganberry (3.5 oz) 8.0
Pokeberry shoots 1.0
Raspberry 1.5
Salmonberry (3.5 oz) 8.0
Strawberry 1.8

http://lowcarbediem.com/atkins-low-carb-fruit-vegetable-list/

[Gayandgray]

Just got home and saw this, thank you Anya!!!! This is very helpful!:koolaid:

[kittygrrl]

This is just a suggestion, but why not grow your own organic vegetables? And perhaps plant a small fruit tree? You can make your own compost. All it takes is your time and lawn clippings, leaves, and little dirt etc. Start with something simple like peas and zucchini and maybe a lettuce patch? It's up to you! You could save quite a lot not buying at the store and the satisfaction you will feel will make it well worth it.

[Angeltoes]

I don't see anything wrong with keeping complex carbs in your diet. You can have potatoes, but the problem is that if you're on a diet you can't have butter or cheese with them. I'm a vegan and if I didn't eat complex carbs like potatoes, quinoa, brown rice, etc., I'm not sure what I would eat. I eat mostly carbs like pumpkin, lentils, corn, but I don't eat anything with added sugar. No white bread and obviously no eggs or dairy. I use vegan cheeses which are not delicious on their own, but taste fine when added to dishes in moderation. I use all kinds of sauces that are vegetable-based, nooch (nutritional yeast), fruits, and vegetables, vegan butter. It takes some research and experimentation for people to find what works for them. I think the trick is when you're starting out on a vegan diet is to always have suitable snacks on hand so you don't give into temptation. That's what worked for me.

Ok, I need some help and I hope this is the right place to post this? I am very overweight, and I am wanting to get myself together and lose weight before I turn 50. I know that low carb diets work, because I lost over 100lbs following Atkins in the past. However, I'm really getting sick of eating so much meat!! And I've been reading about the stuff they feed the animals, chemicals, abuse the factory farm animals go through their entire lives, etc. I can't afford to buy only organic food and grass fed beef, but I really am wondering about what I'm actually putting in my body??? Growing up, I saw chickens living OUTSIDE, not inside. They ate grass and bugs and they took dust baths and they laid eggs and we ate them and that was fine by me. Nowadays I rarely see chickens outside. The farm across the road has them locked up inside these big chicken houses and they never see the sun. I don't know what the farmer feeds them? I'm just feeling like maybe I need to not focus so much on avoiding carbs and eating a lot of meat, but eating HEALTHY for awhile....... I have been craving fruits and veggies the past few days and the doctor my sister works for said that may be a sign I need the nutrients. I'm not saying I want to just become a vegetarian overnight, but I'd like to at least cut back a bit on meat and eat more healthy. In the past when I did Atkins I avoided tropical fruits and only ate berries once in awhile. Now I'm craving pineapple and mangoes. And I like putting bananas in my protein shakes with kale. I'm also thinking about trying this substituting cauliflower for potatoes thing? I hear a lot of people talking about it. I'm afraid of potatoes and pasta because I have no willpower and won't practice portion control!!!!!! I'm looking into maybe a lower carb vegetarian way of eating, if that makes sense? I'm sorry if this post seems like I'm rambling but I just needed to get this out somehow and don't want it to sound weird. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! :seeingstars::seeingstars:

[Gayandgray]

My boss at the kennel gave me some veggie "chicken" patties to try, but I haven't made them yet. I have been eating a lot of fruits, veggies, and I cooked a pot of brown rice and measured myself a 1/2 cup serving with veggies. Im still eating eggs and cheese right now. But funny thing is, since I stopped obsessing about carbs and eating so much meat, my appetite seems to have decreased a bit?? And I'm not feeling so tired and yucky. I'm thinking my body was seriously lacking some nutrients. I'm going to keep researching and trying out recipes and stuff. And the compost idea doesn't seem too hard? I love working out in the yard.

[FemmeTastic]

I was vegetarian from age 12 to 28 and have been vegan now for 3 years :) Best decision I could ever make. The variety of vegetables, greens, fruits and legumes I've been eating ever since going vegan is incredible. Most of the things I eat now on a daily basis, I never even KNEW of when I was ovo-lacto-vegetarian, because honestly, as long as *it* had cheese in it, I was as happy as it gets. But without the cheese, I have found all sorts of recipes to make my dishes just as delcious, albeit very differently tasting of course.
I have about 25 oz of green smoothie for breakfast every morning, and don't eat any sugar refined or otherwise, unless it naturally occurs in whole fruits and veggies. I don't eat wheat, spelt, or rye. As a vegan that leaves me with limited options when eating out, but I manage. My health has improved significantly and that, to me, is worth it.
I'm primarily vegan for the animals, though. I LOVED the taste of meat, fish and chicken. Disliking any of it was never the reason for quitting it.

[Foxyfemmm]

My fiancee is a "Seagan". She's vegan except for: seafood, egg whites.

Surely if she eats seafood she isn't even a vegetarian let alone a vegan. I'm not judging its just that doesnt make sense to me sorry.

[nycfem]

The seagan person (I'm referring to StephfromMIT) was a fake profile who is now banned, full of nonsense!

I made myself a vegan meal tonight that I thought would be too bland but somehow it was delicious. I was exhausted from work so it was a quickie. I threw together 1/4 of an avocado, half a can of tomatoes, 1/4 cup finely chopped celery, garlic powder, frozen/microwaved spinach and string beans. Not sure why it ended up being so good!

[kittygrrl]

for beautiful French skin

To get your grape fix on the go, add them to your morning smoothie with this easy recipe :

• 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

• 1 handful of frozen red organic grapes

• 1 handful of spinach

• 1 banana

• 2 tablespoons of peanut or almond butter

• Place contents in blender and enjoy!


Read more: http://us.caudalie.com/vinosource?utm_source=eatlocalgrown.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=pubexchange_paid_module#ixzz480y1Tu90

[nycfem]

Yummy afternoon meal today:
A mix of roasted chestnuts, beets, cooked spinach, dark red kidney beans, and honey mustard dressing.

[Gemme]

Yummy afternoon meal today:
A mix of roasted chestnuts, beets, cooked spinach, dark red kidney beans, and honey mustard dressing.

That sounds really good. I'll be over in a jiffy.

:blink:

[kittygrrl]

on pizza dough, drizzle a good olive oil, raw garlic (chopped fine) raw tomatillo slices, slices of purple onion, slices of jalapeño (seeds removed for the tame), cooked chickpeas, (top with)a good vegan cheese, or organic grated cheese or white cheddar, ..slid on a stone in hot 500 degree oven til pizza crust is a light brown w/ cheese is bubblin, garnish with finely chopped cilantro and squeeze of lime..serve with green salad with side of ranch..

[job]

I just accidentally made an amazing vegan banana split. I love to make strawberries and bananas, the kind you add the sugar to and let sit in the fridge overnight....so anyway did that last night. Tonight, I decided to have some of Ben and Jerry's vegan chunky monkey: banana ice cream, fudge chips, and walnuts. I always nuke my ice cream 30 seconds so it's soft and easy to get out of the container. Plus, it tastes better to me. ..so, after I spooned some out I figured I'll just add some strawberries and bananas with lots of the strawberry juice. Tasted just like a banana split!😍
Also, for gay and gray: my favorite meal is rice, I have a rice maker- his name is Josh 😃, with stir fry vegetables, I buy it in bulk frozen, with Gardein beef tips. Just throw them right in with the veggies. Can't mess it up. So good! But, I admit I have no idea if they really taste like beef tips, as I haven't had meat since I was a kid. Pretty much can't go wrong with anything Gardein, though.

[grenade]

I eat lots of carbs. lots. I had rice and toast for dinner. Toast before bed. When you're not consuming meat and dairy you tend to burn them.

Giving up dairy was the best choice ever for me.

[Happy_Go_Lucky]

Vegans? Vegetarians? Yes, please! I've always found them to be particularly tasty. ;)

[Bel]

Hello all, I've been on a vegan diet most of my life! Here's to plant-based vitality!

[cuspofqueens]

My People!

*hugs all of you* I never in my life thought I would find other people like me....lesbian is one thing, right? And then vegetarian/vegan is something completely different. I'm so glad you all exist and are here! :)

On a food note: I gave up sugar* 10 days ago and I am craving blueberry muffins. About to go make some and just sub in a mashed banana for the sugar. I love experimenting in the kitchen, but this one has me slightly nervous. Wish me luck!

*I promise I don't hate myself! :P

[Greco]

Living the vegan life style has been the one of the greatest changes in my life...really...began making green smoothies and running and the rest, well...really like night and day, on another planet. I am grateful to those green smoothies, and running.

I will say that the change was for me. One of my grand-nephews who just turned 14yo btw was vegetarian since birth! He does not touch/eat meat, always refused it, so we do eat together when I'm in the City. And I do cook what my other family members eat, chicken, fish, steak again when in the City...interestingly, my eldest sister doesn't eat red meat anymore...so, being an example and not preaching is the best policy for me and for my family.

Yes to those green smoothies!

Greco

[nycfem]

I recently tried jackfruit as a "meat substitute." It gets a lot of hype but *shrug*- it wasn't my thing- looked cool but that's about it!

Speaking of meat substitutes (and yes, yes, I know some people don't subscribe to them at all), I'm back into Primal Strips as a treat (vegan jerky). My favorite is Thai Peanut flavor.

[kittygrrl]

I recently tried jackfruit as a "meat substitute." It gets a lot of hype but *shrug*- it wasn't my thing- looked cool but that's about it!

Speaking of meat substitutes (and yes, yes, I know some people don't subscribe to them at all), I'm back into Primal Strips as a treat (vegan jerky). My favorite is Thai Peanut flavor.

nyc! I enjoy the Gardein chicken tenders...when I can..spouse loves it when we eat the same thing...so not as often as I would like!

[cuspofqueens]

Have y'all tried the Field Roast Deli Style slices? I'm kind of in love with them; mainly because the grocery store next to my work offers them as a sandwich filling option! I went on a road trip once, stopped at Subway for their veggie sandwich (which is a mockery of a sandwich and never worth the $6 they charge me, I swear), and stuck these slices in to bulk it up.

I do have to figure out more high-protein options beyond fake meats. Those get expensive fast. I am working with a nutritional coach who gave me specific macros to hit, and when I can get 'enough' protein in, my body seems to do what I want (it to do) better and easier.

[Contradictor]

I've been vegan since I was 18. Vegetarian since I was 11. I just realised I was a bit of a hypocrite saying I was an animal lover while supporting the industries that hurt them. I love cooking and finding new things to try :)

[girlin2une]

Light Life vegan sausages are amazing!!

[Gayandgray]

I've gone back to making smoothies every morning and wow! I can feel the difference already. I add in a scoop of Vegan protein powder and always use kale or spinach.:jester:

[Gayandgray]

I tried some Tofurky sausage links and really liked them. And I finally tried the strawberry & rubarb flavor vegan yogurt I been wanting to try. I forget the brand...Noos?? Noosh? It starts with an "N" anyhow.

[*Anya*]

I tried some Tofurky sausage links and really liked them. And I finally tried the strawberry & rubarb flavor vegan yogurt I been wanting to try. I forget the brand...Noos?? Noosh? It starts with an "N" anyhow.

Noosa yogurt is made with milk. It is delicious, however.

The strawberry rhubarb is great. I have switched to Wallaby's no sugar added yogurt (also not vegan) but most of them only have 4 grams of natural sugar (in the fruit) and 8 grams of carbs.

This website does have vegan yogurts listed:

http://www.yourdailyvegan.com/vegan-yogurt/

[Gayandgray]

Noosa yogurt is made with milk. It is delicious, however.

The strawberry rhubarb is great. I have switched to Wallaby's no sugar added yogurt (also not vegan) but most of them only have 4 grams of natural sugar (in the fruit) and 8 grams of carbs.

This website does have vegan yogurts listed:

http://www.yourdailyvegan.com/vegan-yogurt/

OMG! Thank you for pointing this out!! I guess I got my vegan yogurts mixed up! LOL! It was good, though.

[Gemme]

I'm not vegan or vegetarian, so you all might have known this but I was a little surprised with a couple of the foods listed.

7 Foods You Thought Were Vegan or Vegetarian But Aren't (http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1011268-7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent/?utm_source=aol.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent&utm_campaign=AOL-Wellness)

[nycfem]

I knew most of these but love to review. I was at a restaurant and asked if the mac and cheese was vegetarian. They said, "No, chicken stock." Chicken stock is in soooo many things...

I'm not vegan or vegetarian, so you all might have known this but I was a little surprised with a couple of the foods listed.

7 Foods You Thought Were Vegan or Vegetarian But Aren't (http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1011268-7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent/?utm_source=aol.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent&utm_campaign=AOL-Wellness)

[Bel]

I'm not vegan or vegetarian, so you all might have known this but I was a little surprised with a couple of the foods listed.

7 Foods You Thought Were Vegan or Vegetarian But Aren't (http://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1011268-7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent/?utm_source=aol.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=7-foods-thought-were-vegan-vegetarian-but-arent&utm_campaign=AOL-Wellness)

I can understand why people (like me!) would be surprised to learn that Guinness is not vegan (damn it!!) but... yoghurt and parmesean ?!

: )

[Gayandgray]

Has anyone tried Breyers Vegan ice cream? I bought the Oreo cookie one today and I really like it. They also have a vanilla peanut butter flavor which I want to try. It was only $4.88 for a half gallon in my Superwalmart, which is way cheaper than the vegan Ben & Jerry's I had been getting. The So Delicious coconut ones are still my favorites, though.

[Lovebird_1989]

I've been vegetarian with vegan tendancies (eat vegan as much as possible, the sources aren't great here ... and I only use cruelty free household&cosmetic brands, unless something's medically necessary) for five years ...
I've fell off the vegewagon a couple times, but back on it now!
It makes me so happy that I can do this for animals! And, apparently, it's soo good for human health and the environment! :cheer: :stillheart:

[Gemme]

I was half vegetarian tonight for dinner.

[candy_coated_bitch]

Has anyone tried Breyers Vegan ice cream? I bought the Oreo cookie one today and I really like it. They also have a vanilla peanut butter flavor which I want to try. It was only $4.88 for a half gallon in my Superwalmart, which is way cheaper than the vegan Ben & Jerry's I had been getting. The So Delicious coconut ones are still my favorites, though.

I didn't even know Breyer's had vegan ice cream. I will keep an eye out!

[tantalizingfemme]

Made this tonight and it is so good!

https://holycowvegan.net/easy-brussels-sprouts-stew/

[Orema]

Made this tonight and it is so good!

https://holycowvegan.net/easy-brussels-sprouts-stew/

I made this tonight and it was delicious. I used more tomatoes and cashews than the recipe called for and it was really good.

Thanks for posting this!

[kittygrrl]

Vegan Banana Cake
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 1 two-tiered cake (approx. 16 servings)

Ingredients
For the cake (makes two tiers):
2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour (all-purpose flour is a good substitute-- it makes for an even more tender cake)
1/2 cup canola or other vegetable oil
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
3 medium, very ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup soy or any non-dairy milk, like almond, cashew, hemp, or pumpkin-seed milk + 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar (set aside five minutes to curdle)
For the peanut butter frosting:
1/2 cup smooth and creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup vegan cream cheese
1 1/2 tbsp vegan "butter", like Earth Balance
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups confectioners (powdered) sugar
Instructions
Make the vegan banana cake:
Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
Beat together the oil and sugar with a handheld mixer for about two minutes.
Add the soymilk mixture and beat until just mixed.
Add the mashed bananas and beat in. Make sure there are no big lumps remaining.
Add the flour to the banana-soymilk-oil mixture in 2 batches, beating in after each addition until the mixture is smooth. Do not overbeat, though.
Line the bottom of two 9-inch cake pans with parchment or wax paper. Oil and flour the pans.
Divide the batter equally between the two pans and bake 25-30 minutes in a 350-degree oven until a toothpick inserted in the center of each cake comes out clean.
Place on a rack to cool, about 10 minutes. Unmold, peel off the parchment paper, and leave on the rack to cool thoroughly before frosting.
Make the vegan peanut butter frosting:
Have the peanut butter and Earth Balance at room temperature, and the cream cheese cold. Place the ingredients in a bowl and mix with a wisk or with a handheld or stand mixer until everything's combined.
Add the sugar 1/2 cup at a time, beating in well after each addition. I use less sugar than most peanut butter frosting recipes would, but if you want a stiffer frosting add more confectioners sugar.
Place the frosting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frosting.
Assemble the cake:
Place one cake on a cake stand or flat dish. Put about 1/3rd of the frosting (recipe follows) in the center of the cake and using a spatula spread it evenly across the surface.
Carefully place the second cake on top of the first one. Put the remaining icing in the center of the cake and evenly frost the top and sides.
Garnish with some chopped, roasted peanuts. In fact, if you have the time and the peanuts, sprinkle nuts all over the surface of the cake and press some into the sides.
Cut yourself a hunka cake love, and enjoy!


or try Strawberry Frosting (that's what i did)
Mind Blowing Strawberry Frosting Recipe (Vegan)
Prep time: 10 mins Total time: 10 mins
Serves: 2½ Cups

Mind Blowing Strawberry Frosting Recipe. Also, substitutions to make a vegan strawberry frosting! Great as dips, to frost cupcakes or to decorate cakes! | carmelapop.com
Ingredients
⅓ Cup (a good)Vegan Butter
⅓ Cup strawberry preserve
2 Cups confectioners sugar (opt for Organic!)
*optional* 1 Tbsp. Vegan cream cheese
Instructions
In a bowl mix the vegan butter and the strawberry preserve.
Add the confectioners sugar and keep mixing until light and fluffy.
Refrigerate for (at least) 10 minutes as vegan frostings tend to be very soft. Then frost cake add sprinkles if desired and when finished put whole cake in icebox til serving. Enjoy Anya!

copied from "so you're dating a vegan"

[candy_coated_bitch]

Made this tonight and it is so good!

https://holycowvegan.net/easy-brussels-sprouts-stew/

This looks so good! I'm gonna have to try it.

[Gayandgray]

My biggest issue with eating vegetarian/vegan is I overeat carbs..... I’m obese to begin with so I don’t need to be pigging out on pasta, rice, etc. I’m trying to get myself psyched up to work a low carb version of a vegetarian plan.

[*Anya*]

My biggest issue with eating vegetarian/vegan is I overeat carbs..... I’m obese to begin with so I don’t need to be pigging out on pasta, rice, etc. I’m trying to get myself psyched up to work a low carb version of a vegetarian plan.

The only time I really got derailed from eating low carb is bread! I really had sort of forgotten about it but my daughter brought homemade yeast dinner rolls to a family dinner several months ago and I thought "One should be OK".

Not.

I find that with either bread or sweets, it takes about a week of avoiding them to stop the craving.

There are tons of books and info online about low carb and keto diets. I don't do well with low fat diets because I am always hungry on them but I am never hungry on low carb.

It doesn't work for everyone and a vegetarian low carb is a little more difficult but I do know people doing both.

The low carb threat has some great vegetarian recipes.

Best of luck!

PS: Jessie! Miss you around here, especially on the low carb thread!

[tantalizingfemme]

My biggest issue with eating vegetarian/vegan is I overeat carbs..... I’m obese to begin with so I don’t need to be pigging out on pasta, rice, etc. I’m trying to get myself psyched up to work a low carb version of a vegetarian plan.

That happens a lot for folks starting a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle. I don't eat bread, pasta, rice, or white potatoes. I will have a small amount of sweet potatoes maybe once a month. I substitute rice with cauliflower rice, pasta with spaghetti squash, and bread with lettuce leaves. The one thing that is hard for me is having something to bite/crunch into. I keep my nut consumption pretty low due to calorie amount. (I eat two tablespoons of unsalted walnuts a day). I also have developed a complete dislike for portobello mushrooms so no "burger" substitutes for me. And, I have cut all soy products and meat substitutes due to high sodium and calorie content. If you keep a majority of your ingredients "whole foods" you will do well. Just take small steps. And watch portion size. Even though it is healthy food, too many calories is too many calories and will cause weight gain. A little change at a time won't make it feel so drastic or make you feel deprived. Good luck!

[MsTinkerbelly]

My biggest issue with eating vegetarian/vegan is I overeat carbs..... I’m obese to begin with so I don’t need to be pigging out on pasta, rice, etc. I’m trying to get myself psyched up to work a low carb version of a vegetarian plan.

I did a no oil vegan for about a year...I really felt good, but very time consuming. Some things that helped me:

Tofu...well drained tofu can be “stir fried” with many other things like veggies. In order to be oil free, I cooked my veggies in vegetable broth or a little water before adding them to the crumbled tofu. Adding beans (I like black beans the best) can really up the fiber and protein. Yes it adds carbs, but they are good carbs, as are your veggies.

Spaghetti squash with pasta sauce and “meat” crumbles, or sautéed mushrooms and veggies is a hearty dish. Mashed cauliflower (mashed with flavored cream cheese) is a great substitute for potatoes.

A vegetarian needs amino acid, so you may need a bottle of aminos to add to some dishes, as well as nutritional yeast (can be bought in a health food store) to give you a boost. VARIETY of foods will help to keep you from reaching for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich ( nothing wrong with them but high in carbs) or a bag of chips on the go. Keep celery cut up for cream cheese and peanut butter, keep other things like nuts (almonds are a great choice) and yogurt around.

Just some ideas, I’m sure you already have it handled. ;)

[tantalizingfemme]

Just a couple of recipes I have tried recently that are winners:

I made this for Thanksgiving and it was amazing. The gravy is so flavorful. I am not a huge fan of mushrooms so I put them in my processor and chopped them into small pieces. I also used sweet potatoes instead of white.

https://www.connoisseurusveg.com/vegan-salisbury-steak-meatballs-with-garlic-mashed-potatoes-mushroom-gravy/

I made this last night and it surpassed my expectations. I eliminated the addition of salt (I do this with all my recipes now) but can see it adding more flavor. I froze half and the other half was dinner last night and will be for the next two.

https://www.blissfulbasil.com/best-ever-vegan-creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup/?fref=gc&dti=719002671517630

My next venture is with the following recipe. I normally do not eat bread, but I figure I will use ezekiel for the croutons.

https://healthyblenderrecipes.com/recipes/brussel_sprouts_caesar_salad_with_pine_hemp_parmes an_and_croutons

[nycfem]

Hello, vegheads, I've been making this soup for BB and me that we both like but is just coming out too bland! I wanted to tell you the ingredients and see if you might have a suggestion as to how I could somehow make it less bland. I use low-sodium vegetable broth, low-sodium soy sauce, peanut butter, chopped ginger, chopped vegetables, and curry powder. Any thoughts?

[Greco]

Jen,

I also use the low-sodium veg broth in making soup, but do use some
pink Himalayan salt ten mins before it's done to bring out the flavor of
the veggies...not a lot but depending how much I'm making...a little goes
a long way for flavor, especially because my salt intake is nil with anything else.

Is the peanut butter your using also salt-free?

keeping it veggie/vegan, Greco




Hello, vegheads, I've been making this soup for BB and me that we both like but is just coming out too bland! I wanted to tell you the ingredients and see if you might have a suggestion as to how I could somehow make it less bland. I use low-sodium vegetable broth, low-sodium soy sauce, peanut butter, chopped ginger, chopped vegetables, and curry powder. Any thoughts?

[kittygrrl]

Hello, vegheads, I've been making this soup for BB and me that we both like but is just coming out too bland! I wanted to tell you the ingredients and see if you might have a suggestion as to how I could somehow make it less bland. I use low-sodium vegetable broth, low-sodium soy sauce, peanut butter, chopped ginger, chopped vegetables, and curry powder. Any thoughts?

Hi nyc! You might try to add: low-fat coconut milk, garlic, vegan fish sauce, sesame oil, fresh finely chopped cilantro, (a) fresh serrano chili pepper/red pepper flakes, lime juice, (maybe) a bit of rice vinegar..i've done various combinations and added a side of roasted or stir fried cauliflower .. (turned out) amazing

note: i forgot to mention Thai Basil leaves!!! These are really wonderful!

[nycfem]

Thanks, I'm definitely going to try out these ideas. Very helpful!

[nycfem]

BB says the broth is pretty good but that the vegetables taste kind of bland. I just put the veggies in raw. Should I cook them first? If so, any recommendations as to how?

[Greco]

Slow- sauté of veggies with the herbs/garlic that kittygrrl gave is good. I usually sauté them for about 3mins for green leafy, and 3-5 for cruciferous like broccoli, kale. Then throw them in with the root veggies, works for me! See Now I'm hungry...smiling.

Greco




BB says the broth is pretty good but that the vegetables taste kind of bland. I just put the veggies in raw. Should I cook them first? If so, any recommendations as to how?

[Gemme]

BB says the broth is pretty good but that the vegetables taste kind of bland. I just put the veggies in raw. Should I cook them first? If so, any recommendations as to how?

I asked the professional and He said as far as the veggies go, add a little olive oil and roast them before adding them. You could also try switching up the veggies you use for a new flavor profile. Also, He suggested a 'bugano de garne' (not how it's spelled, I'm sure, but in the ballpark as to how it's pronounced). Basically, get a bunch of herbs and spices and put them in cheesecloth and tie it closed. Let it steep in the broth and remove it before serving. You can use the no sodium salt by Morton (neither of Us could remember what it's really called) or red pepper flakes or whatever floats your boat in additional to your usual choices.

[PlatinumPearl]

I went Vegan for 1 year and found that extremely difficult the first couple of months after it was ok but I felt so extreme. Being Vegan and dating was difficult to do the waiters always gave me strange looks and didn't like that I asked so many questions.

I then went Vegetarian and then to eating meat every so often. My body doesn't need meat but I do like honey and the medicinal benefits of honey and I also like to use it as a sweetener. The other alternatives do not work in my best interest.

I have thought about a raw diet but this isn't as appealing to do in winter months and best to do in the summer when there are more choices for seasonal and locally grown produce.

[AmazonDC]

I asked the professional and He said as far as the veggies go, add a little olive oil and roast them before adding them. You could also try switching up the veggies you use for a new flavor profile. Also, He suggested a 'bugano de garne' (not how it's spelled, I'm sure, but in the ballpark as to how it's pronounced). Basically, get a bunch of herbs and spices and put them in cheesecloth and tie it closed. Let it steep in the broth and remove it before serving. You can use the no sodium salt by Morton (neither of Us could remember what it's really called) or red pepper flakes or whatever floats your boat in additional to your usual choices.

It's called bouquet garni babygrl

[tantalizingfemme]

Hello, vegheads, I've been making this soup for BB and me that we both like but is just coming out too bland! I wanted to tell you the ingredients and see if you might have a suggestion as to how I could somehow make it less bland. I use low-sodium vegetable broth, low-sodium soy sauce, peanut butter, chopped ginger, chopped vegetables, and curry powder. Any thoughts?

Some liquid smoke and a bit of tomato paste will help give a rich flavor. And I also second the coconut milk. Also Garam Masala is awesome too.

[starryeyes]

My partner and I are vegan :) Hello to the fellow vegans!

[Gemme]

It's called bouquet garni babygrl

Tomato, tomahtow.

[tantalizingfemme]

Some liquid smoke and a bit of tomato paste will help give a rich flavor. And I also second the coconut milk. Also Garam Masala is awesome too.

Instead of curry powder try some red curry paste.

[*Anya*]

My biggest issue with eating vegetarian/vegan is I overeat carbs..... I’m obese to begin with so I don’t need to be pigging out on pasta, rice, etc. I’m trying to get myself psyched up to work a low carb version of a vegetarian plan.

I know this is from last month but wanted to respond again.

I can only speak for me and what works for me but maybe it will work for you, too.

When it comes to carbs: there is no such thing as a little bit.

There is something about carbs that makes me crave them if I eat a little bit.

For me, it literally means no breads (not even low carb ones), no rolls, no wraps, no rice, no potatoes, no sweets (other than maybe a fresh pear or peach with cottage cheese).

It is even hard to find yogurts that are 2 or 4% milkfat but no added sugar. I look for at least low fat with sugar grams 5-7 max. You would think yogurt is healthy but some have 16-17 grams of sugar!

You get the idea.

A week of this and I am rechecking my pantry to make sure that there are no triggers in there for me. (I do love Graham crackers and always find a box that I throw away).

Low carb or keto does usually involves eating the M ( meat ) word for some of us low carbers and I know this is the vegan/vegetarian thread so I won't go there.

I think for any healthy way of eating, you have to identify your goal and perhaps break it down. For me: no processed foods or carb-laden foods. I am still on a lazy keto (40-ish carbs, veggies and occasional fruits) but hard-core low carbers or those just starting out drop to 20. I don't think I could do that.

Regardless, being able to have fats totally satiate me and I am never hungry. Low-fat diets are a disaster for me.

It is just peace for me to not have to think about food or to feel guilty or bad about myself or what I am eating.

If I am hungry (and I am rarely hungry on low carb) I eat.

I hope it is ok I invaded the vegan/ vegetarian thread. I would like to get there at some point but that is a longer-term goal for me.

[tantalizingfemme]

I made this meatloaf for Christmas and it was so good. And rather than put a maple glaze on it, I made gravy. Both came out so good with great flavor.

http://ninasveganrecipes.com/2016/11/28/veggie-chickpea-meatloaf/


https://www.thespruce.com/basic-vegetarian-gravy-recipe-3377667

I used chickpea flour instead of white. And there were no mushrooms. Yay.

[nycfem]

Thanks, everyone, for the helpful suggestions on how to make my veggie soup more flavorful. They were a big hit with my husbutch! Thanks for taking the time. It is appreciated.

[nycfem]

Tonight I experimented with a recipe and I knew in the back of my head it probably would not work, and it didn't. Still... go me, for trying something new! I bought a can of Amy's coconut Thai soup (always seems like it'll be great but always ends up being "meh", also loaded with sodium). I used that as a base to stir-fry cabbage, onions, and tofu-shiritaku noodles. I added a little curry powder. It ended up being so bland, so I melted two TBS of peanut butter and mixed that in, along with 2 TBS of sweet chili sauce. That saved it but I'd definitely not repeat this "Amy's Thai soup as base for stir-fry" thing again!

[nycfem]

Okkkkk, so tonight I made a stirfry with a can of light coconut milk (used too much!), curry, peanutbutter, and carrots, tofu, onions, and cabbage. It was okay but definitely bland, not something I'd make again.

[bright_arrow]

Subscribing for new recipe ideas as someone who used to be vegetarian and because we want to reduce our meat intake a little bit. :)

NYCfem, that stir fry sounds like it should have been amazing and I'm sorry it wasn't!

[candy_coated_bitch]

Subscribing for new recipe ideas as someone who used to be vegetarian and because we want to reduce our meat intake a little bit. :)

NYCfem, that stir fry sounds like it should have been amazing and I'm sorry it wasn't!

It does sound amazing!! nycfem, do you use enough salt and pepper? You'd be amazed at what a difference it can make. I'm sorry all your food seems to be coming out bland.

I need good dinner recipe ideas. I hate cooking but my diabetes isn't getting better and I have to stop relying so much on simple, easy carbs.

[Gemme]

It does sound amazing!! nycfem, do you use enough salt and pepper? You'd be amazed at what a difference it can make. I'm sorry all your food seems to be coming out bland.

I need good dinner recipe ideas. I hate cooking but my diabetes isn't getting better and I have to stop relying so much on simple, easy carbs.

Maybe this (http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/vegetarian/top-diabetic-vegetarian-recipes) site could be helpful?

[candy_coated_bitch]

Maybe this (http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/vegetarian/top-diabetic-vegetarian-recipes) site could be helpful?

That was helpful, thank you! There were a bunch of easy recipes that I would definitely enjoy!

[tantalizingfemme]

I just made this tonight and it is sooo good! And easy.

https://www.veganricha.com/2016/08/basil-jalapeno-corn-fritters.html

And for dipping sauce:

https://www.veggiessavetheday.com/vegan-avocado-ranch-dressing/

I added extra dill to the dressing because... dill.

Tomorrow I am trying my hand at chickpea flour mini quiches for a party.

[ardentfemme]

I just made this tonight and it is sooo good! And easy.

https://www.veganricha.com/2016/08/basil-jalapeno-corn-fritters.html

And for dipping sauce:

https://www.veggiessavetheday.com/vegan-avocado-ranch-dressing/

I added extra dill to the dressing because... dill.

Tomorrow I am trying my hand at chickpea flour mini quiches for a party.

Hi tantalizingfemme,
Those look awesome! Let us know how the mini quiches go. I want to make a dessert with chickpea flour, but it'll be my first time using it, so I'm a little wary.

On another note, I just made vegan mac and cheese for the first time and it turned out great!! I'm stoked!

[tantalizingfemme]

Hi tantalizingfemme,
Those look awesome! Let us know how the mini quiches go. I want to make a dessert with chickpea flour, but it'll be my first time using it, so I'm a little wary.

On another note, I just made vegan mac and cheese for the first time and it turned out great!! I'm stoked!

Vegan mac and cheese is great! I found pasta made from chickpeas and other types of beans at the local co-op and am waiting to make mac & cheese with it. Does your cheese sauce include cashews?

The quiches came out great. I used fresh garlic, rosemary, and basil along with some sauteed red onion and green pepper. The flavor is subtle, which I like. This is how they came out:

http://i769.photobucket.com/albums/xx338/clearle/IMG_2361_zps2lhys8cm.jpg

I made a vegan green goddess dressing, and brought that as a dipping sauce.

[kittygrrl]

Pear & Hazelnut Salad w/Champagne Vinaigrette salad ..do try it

2Tbsps Champagne Vinegar
1 shallot, minced finely
1tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 c Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1Tbsp fresh Italian Parsley, finely chopped
Sea Salt & (freshly) ground black pepper
3 c Frisee(root trimmed and leaves pulled apart) or a wonderful Organic Spring Mix
3 c Baby Arugula (use this if you decide on the Frisee)
2 Pears(Ripe)cored peeled and cut into cubes
1Tbsp Lemon juice
1/2 cup Hazelnuts, toasted roughly chopped

To make Vinaigrette: In a jar, add vinegar, minced shallots and mustard. Cover and shake well. Add Olive oil. Shake well til well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and stir in chopped parley. Set aside.

*Peel*, core, & chop Pears and add 1Tbsp lemon juice. Set aside in small bowl. Cover

To assemble salad: Place the frisee and arugula (or Spring Mix) into serving bowl and toss. Drizzle with enough vinaigrette to coat greans, lightly. Add Pears. Toss gently. (Do not saturate the greens with dressing!)

To serve: Divide the dressed salad between 4 chilled serving plates and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts and serve immediately.

note: * * Peeling Pear is optional-I love it natural. I've also tried this salad with a Raspberry Vinaigrette and loved it too.

[ardentfemme]

I wish I were the cow in this video LOL

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NI3450QFPn4

How is the whole world not vegetarian after k.d. lang told us all to stop eating meat?!

[kittygrrl]

thishttps://www.eatingbirdfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Banana-Chocolate-Toast.jpg is my absolute favorite late night treat-
(Toasted)favorite bread
cashew butter
(Sprinkle)*cinnamon
(Spoonful) Maple Syrup
*sliced banana
*blueberries
*(Mini)choco chips
*hemp Seeds
*black Poppy Seeds

*Optional

[candy_coated_bitch]

thishttps://www.eatingbirdfood.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Banana-Chocolate-Toast.jpg is my absolute favorite late night treat-
(Toasted)favorite bread
cashew butter
(Sprinkle)*cinnamon
(Spoonful) Maple Syrup
*sliced banana
*blueberries
*(Mini)choco chips
*hemp Seeds
*black Poppy Seeds

*Optional

Ooooh, that looks yummy! I'll have to try a version of this.

[kittygrrl]

Vegan-friendly Pancakes

love this, make it often (for me) whilst my spouse enjoys his favorite pancakes

Batter:
1/2 c. old fashioned oats
1/2 c. (homemade) almond milk
1 (large) ripe banana
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. nutmeg, freshly grated)
1/3 tsp. vanilla extract

buzz oatmeal to powder in blender. Add rest of ingredients to blender and blend til combined.
Warm non-stick pan to medium. Lightly brush with vegan butter. Use 2-3 Tbsp. of batter for each pancake and cook 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form all over pancake. Keep warm

To serve- To warmed plate add pancakes and sprinkle blueberries & raspberries (frozen or fresh). Add chopped walnuts and drizzle with maple syrup and finally.........if you want the ultimate sprinkle with black poppy seeds...................uh huh, next best thing to ...everything that counts :)

[tantalizingfemme]

Every Sunday I meal prep for the week. It's usually at night since I am out but today, for the first time in a while, I had nothing planned. Yay. I absolutely abhor having to cook when I get home during the week. Absolutely hate it. It's the last friggin thing I want to do. So, meal prep it is. I am going to post some really great recipes that I have found.

This first one is going to sound really weird, but it is soooo good. If you hate dill, skip this.
https://www.connoisseurusveg.com/vegan-dill-pickle-potato-chowder/

I used homemade hummus in the recipe below instead of the vegan ricotta.
https://www.fooduzzi.com/2018/01/vegan-marinara-farro-roasted-broccoli-chickpeas/

I will admit, I did something I swore I would never do. I pulled the little covering off the chickpeas. It makes a huge difference. Hint: rub them dry with papertowels, it helps!
https://www.fooduzzi.com/2016/09/cheez-it-roasted-chickpeas/

This vegan parm cheese is the absolute best thing I have ever tasted. I can put it on anything.
https://www.fooduzzi.com/2017/10/vegan-parmesan-cheese/

https://www.fooduzzi.com/2018/01/vegan-parmesan-roasted-broccoli/

Instead of quinoa (I hate quinoa) I used farro for this one.
http://www.panningtheglobe.com/2017/01/29/sweet-potato-brussels-sprout-buddha-bowl/

The avocado dressing for this recipe is amazing. I love creamy dressings but have not found any vegan versions to make that weren't runny. This changed that.
https://www.shelikesfood.com/seasoned-chickpea-taco-salad-avocado-ranch-dressing/

I made a couple of new ones today, so if they work out, I will post later.

[Medusa]

This is my newest favorite vegan breakfast treat:


Lots of ice
cold brew coffee
unsweetened almond milk
medjool dates
vanilla
cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, or whatever spices you like.

I throw all of this in my Ninja and blend it up and it's super delicious and filling. I don't add any sugar because the dates are so sweet.

The dates get ground up but you can taste their little gummy goodness bits and it's like a really good dessert.

[tantalizingfemme]

Vegan cream cheese. Does anyone have a recipe that they love? I see some but that’s a lot of raw cashews to be throwing out if it doesn’t work. Also, one that is is plain, not fruity or vegetable flavored. Thanks.

[tantalizingfemme]

This is my newest favorite vegan breakfast treat:


Lots of ice
cold brew coffee
unsweetened almond milk
medjool dates
vanilla
cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, or whatever spices you like.

I throw all of this in my Ninja and blend it up and it's super delicious and filling. I don't add any sugar because the dates are so sweet.

The dates get ground up but you can taste their little gummy goodness bits and it's like a really good dessert.

I love cardamom. I make a vegan split pea soup with cardamom in it. Yum!

[Medusa]

OOOOOOOHHHKAYYY - I am slowly moving back toward my mostly-vegetarian diet and am stocked up on the things that make me feel full.

I ate the last of my chicken sausage tonight for dinner and I felt kinda grossly full even though it was a small portion. I remember now how good I used to feel after my vegetarian meals a couple of years ago and am looking forward to not feeling so gross after I eat.
:D

[Chained Daisy]

OOOOOOOHHHKAYYY - I am slowly moving back toward my mostly-vegetarian diet and am stocked up on the things that make me feel full.

I ate the last of my chicken sausage tonight for dinner and I felt kinda grossly full even though it was a small portion. I remember now how good I used to feel after my vegetarian meals a couple of years ago and am looking forward to not feeling so gross after I eat.
:D

I can`t claim to be either Vegan or Vegetarian but I do try to make sure at least 3 main meals a week are meat free. I know what you mean, after a meat free meal I do feel full in a much healthier way and after meat its a less pleasant fullness no matter how much I have just enjoyed what I`ve eaten. Even when I am cooking meat, in stews, casseroles, chillies, curries and the like I have been using much less meat and chicken and adding more veggies and so far I have no complaints from my little crew.

[tantalizingfemme]

So, one thing I sometimes miss as a vegan is biting into something chewy. Like a burger. I stopped eating any vegan meat substitutes quite a while ago, so 98% of what I consume I make myself from whole foods. And I absolutely gag at the idea of eating a portabello mushroom, so mushroom burgers are out. So I found a recipe for making seitan and let me tell you, it's a game changer. I made vegan cheesesteak sandwiches with it tonight, with a sweet potato nacho cheese sauce and I was in heaven. The best!

The recipe for the seitan is:

https://www.connoisseurusveg.com/how-to-make-seitan/

To make the broth in the recipe, I did use low sodium vegetable broth and added the following:

1 tsp Better than Boullion Roasted Garlic Base
1 tsp Better than Boullion No Chicken Base
2 tsp Vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp low sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
pinch onion powder
pinch garlic powder
pinch pepper
pinch salt

The flavor was so good. So nice to have something to add to a recipe to give it more texture.

[candy_coated_bitch]

So, one thing I sometimes miss as a vegan is biting into something chewy. Like a burger. I stopped eating any vegan meat substitutes quite a while ago, so 98% of what I consume I make myself from whole foods. And I absolutely gag at the idea of eating a portabello mushroom, so mushroom burgers are out. So I found a recipe for making seitan and let me tell you, it's a game changer. I made vegan cheesesteak sandwiches with it tonight, with a sweet potato nacho cheese sauce and I was in heaven. The best!

The recipe for the seitan is:

https://www.connoisseurusveg.com/how-to-make-seitan/

To make the broth in the recipe, I did use low sodium vegetable broth and added the following:

1 tsp Better than Boullion Roasted Garlic Base
1 tsp Better than Boullion No Chicken Base
2 tsp Vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp low sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
pinch onion powder
pinch garlic powder
pinch pepper
pinch salt

The flavor was so good. So nice to have something to add to a recipe to give it more texture.

Thank you! I've always wanted to try and make seitan. Looks really easy.

[tantalizingfemme]

Thank you! I've always wanted to try and make seitan. Looks really easy.

Super easy. Just a word of advice. If you do make it, let it rest after kneading in a glass or metal bowl and then cut it on a ceramic plate. DO NOT do what I did and put it on a wooden cutting board to rest and cut up. It stuck like glue. It will still stick to the plate but not nearly as bad as the wooden cutting board. Enjoy!

[tantalizingfemme]

https://simpleveganblog.com/green-goddess-bowl/
https://simpleveganblog.com/oil-free-chimichurri-sauce/

I made this yesterday and had another bowl tonight. (My last portion is tomorrow and I am already planning on making this again) So good! I do not like quinoa so I made cauliflower rice and sauteed it in a tablespoon of evoo and added a pinch of sea salt and ground pepper. I sauteed the cauliflower until it had a bit of color. And the chimichurri sauce is amazing. (I added extra cayenne since I like spicy.) I also only added a half cup of water because I like it thicker. I will say, as a thicker sauce, this can definitely be used as a dip for tortillas if you want something different. Or even a topping for vegan chili.

[tantalizingfemme]

So, within the past 3 weeks, I have been monitoring my caloric intake and keeping it to between 1100 and 1200 calories per day. What an eye opener to really pay attention to a true serving size, even with a plant-based diet. I also upped my daily work outs to be more strenuous. Many positive outcomes, however I started to get a lot of bruises, especially on the back of my calves. Big ugly ones. It almost looked like someone was hitting me. I did some research and realized it is an iron deficiency. I went to the local Vitamin Shoppe for a vegan iron supplement recommendation. I told the guy I definitely did not want one that would jack up my system. A woman at another store told me to take Megafood Blood Builder Mini's, and they are amazing. My bruises faded quickly and I haven't gotten any weird ones that can't be accounted for. And no constipation. Not only does it have iron, but it also is made with beets, oranges, and broccoli. One other added plus is it also contains B12, which vegans lack in their diet.

So, an FYI for anyone looking for a vegan iron supplement.

https://www.amazon.com/MegaFood-Builder-Production-Constipation-Gluten-Free/dp/B076DJSPSQ/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1525724306&sr=8-3&keywords=megafood+blood+builder+minis

[nycfem]

I got the bruising thing in high school when I dieted too much, but not since then.

I take 500 B12 and D2000, and it normalized my levels. They had come up low in a physical as an adult but as soon as I started the vitamins, it all worked out.

[Greco]

Was just thinking about this thread today...my body
was yearning for nothing but my green smoothie
with blueberries, red beet tops, spinach, bananas,
wheatgrass powder, aloe vera, and chia seeds...cold
and delicious. In the Summer the green smoothie with
different colorful fruit and veggies is what my body
craves for the most part...I remember when I began
having green smoothies, and how I would post
on this site about my turning vegan.

Today's green smoothie was just really
delicious, especially after the weight
routine today at the gym.

Greco

[nycfem]

Are you vegan, Greco?

Tonight I made a stir-fry of carrots, onions, tofu, curry, and BBQ sauce, always a favorite of mine.

[tantalizingfemme]

So one of the changes I recently made was I eat breakfast every morning. I had not done this daily since jr. high school. I have always read that this was suggested before working out, but I just stuck with my coffee and then would eat mid morning. With eating breakfast before I exercise, I find myself not dying by the end of my workouts or famished afterwards. The three breakfasts that I alternate through-out the week are really filling.

https://minimalistbaker.com/southwest-tofu-scramble/
With this recipe, I use Lacinato kale because it is not bitter like other types.

https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2013/03/breakfast-toast-refried-beans-avocado-recipe.html Sometimes I just add a couple of slices of tomato instead of avocado and sprinkle with fresh ground sea salt and pepper.
https://simpleveganblog.com/fat-free-vegan-refried-beans/
I make the refried beans for this recipe and quarter the amount. I add a touch of water when reheating since it can be dry.

https://veganhuggs.com/vegan-breakfast-sandwich/
I use chipotle mayo from Just Mayo to give this a kick. I also do not add vegan cheese. Fair warning, the black salt that is in the recipe, for those who are unaware, is to give the tofu an eggy flavor. and smells of sulfur. It is really strong. I crack the kitchen windows and the porch door when I make this so the smell doesn't linger. You can obviously skip that ingredient if it sounds off putting.

If anyone tries any of these, I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. :)

[Greco]

j. Have been since watching "Earthlings"
several years ago. Check out my green
smoothies recipes...Greco


Are you vegan, Greco?

Tonight I made a stir-fry of carrots, onions, tofu, curry, and BBQ sauce, always a favorite of mine.

[nycfem]

I made a very tasty sandwich this evening: whole wheat bread, mustard, arugala, sham (fake ham), and avocado with a pickle on the side. The avocado made all the difference. Yum!

[tantalizingfemme]

Vegan Crab Cakes-these came out really good and the sriracha aioli is so flavorful.

https://www.connoisseurusveg.com/vegan-crab-cakes-sriracha-aioli/

I baked these rather than cook in oil.

[tantalizingfemme]

I made this last night and it was good, fast and easy. It is vegan chorizo, (Definitely not gluten-free though)

http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/seitan-chorizo-crumbles-450153

Next time I make it I think I will use it in a taco salad. I make my own taco shells by coating the underside of a cupcake pan with a thin layer of canola oil, nestle the shell in between cups and cook at 375 and for about 15 minutes. (more or less depending on how browned you like your shell)

[Dominique]

I never liked meat. Even as a small child I knew I did not like the stuff. Fortunately for me, my parents did not force me to eat it. My dad was a farmer (he grew mostly grains for cattle feed) but started growing me all kinds of vegetables. So I was a vegetarian long before there was such a thing. In the last 20 years or so, I started to eat chicken breast. (occasionally)

However, I still have heart disease and crazy high cholesterol. Obviously it's not my fault and most likely genetic but it is what it is. Through the years, I have been on the DASH diets and the Mediterranean eating plans minus most of the meats. Both were good, healthy ways of eating but not good enough. Cholesterol is STILL not under 200 despite having to take statins.

SO..............

I'm embarking on the plant based eating plan. It's not a huge change from vegetarian eating. It allows you to have 10% of your diet be eggs/chicken/seafood. The biggest eye opener for me was the ZERO OIL concept. Mediterranean was big on the "healthy oils".

Anyone else eating a plant based diet? I'm only a month into this so I'd love to hear from others....

[Kätzchen]

I never liked meat. Even as a small child I knew I did not like the stuff. Fortunately for me, my parents did not force me to eat it. My dad was a farmer (he grew mostly grains for cattle feed) but started growing me all kinds of vegetables. So I was a vegetarian long before there was such a thing. In the last 20 years or so, I started to eat chicken breast. (occasionally)

However, I still have heart disease and crazy high cholesterol. Obviously it's not my fault and most likely genetic but it is what it is. Through the years, I have been on the DASH diets and the Mediterranean eating plans minus most of the meats. Both were good, healthy ways of eating but not good enough. Cholesterol is STILL not under 200 despite having to take statins.

SO..............

I'm embarking on the plant based eating plan. It's not a huge change from vegetarian eating. It allows you to have 10% of your diet be eggs/chicken/seafood. The biggest eye opener for me was the ZERO OIL concept. Mediterranean was big on the "healthy oils".

Anyone else eating a plant based diet? I'm only a month into this so I'd love to hear from others....
I'm new to the plant based diet too, but I'm not sure about use of oils. I use one of three types of oils (evoo, coconut, or grape seed oil's), but I use them sparingly.

I mostly use oil in food prep for veggie stir fry or when I make batches of homemade dressing, Dominique.

If you or anyone posts tips or ideas, I'll be reading and learning too.

[Dominique]

snip
If you or anyone posts tips or ideas, I'll be reading and learning too.

We learn from one another! :-)

[Dominique]

This is the second time I have made this. You can keep it several days....(so make a lot) you can eat it hot, cold, or on some toasted bread.

u1PAXEmZmS8

[Dominique]

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/264059/green-quinoa-tabbouleh/?internalSource=hub%20recipe&referringContentType=search%20results&clickId=cardslot%201



I made this early this morning. I used only one tablespoon of EVOO. It is really good.

Totally loved the "dressing" as he called it.

_cTvHl2LeKI

[tantalizingfemme]

I made the cheese from this recipe and it is really good. Since I don't eat pasta I have used this on spaghetti squash and different spiralized noodles, like zucchini, butternut squash and sweet potato. The only thing I changed was I omitted the agave nectar as when I made it the first time I found it too sweet. And I am also much more generous with the nutritional yeast as I love the flavor. It makes a lot, so either half the recipe or plan to eat it for a while. A little cheese goes a long way over the "noodles".

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/plant-based-recipes/cheesy-vegan-mac-n-yeast

I am making this tonight, and am going to use lettuce as my wrap instead of pita or naan. Vegan gyro with tzatziki sauce.

https://delightfuldeliciousdelovelyblog.wordpress.com/2014/06/03/vegan-gyro-with-homemade-seitan-tzatziki-sauce/

Lastly, Tumeric chickpeas with garlic tahini is such a good meal. Light, flavorful and easy. The time consuming part (but not labor intensive) is making the tumeric chickpeas. But once they are made, you have plenty of chickpeas for this and any other recipe you want to use them for.

https://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/turmeric-chickpeas-with-garlic-tahini-recipe.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=turmericgartahini

[Kätzchen]

Yum!!! Thanks for those three recipes, tantalizing. I've got fresh chick peas in the fridge, so I will definitely try out your hummus recipe. And I think I will try out your vegan Gyro too, for supper tonight. Thanks for all three of the links. :)

[Kätzchen]

Tantalizing??? I made the vegan gyro and it was sooooo good! I even had an extra one for my bff/sil to sample and she loved it too!

My blender died though, when I used the fresh chicken peas to make hummus. It's officially broken tho, because I kept buzzing the contents of the hummus mix until the rubber blade parts came flying out below the blender, lol (or not).

But the hummus is yummy too! :)

I really like the vegan gyro recipe and it will become an anchor type meal I make often. It was that good!

Thanks so much, Tantalizing! :bunchflowers:

[kittygrrl]

So, within the past 3 weeks, I have been monitoring my caloric intake and keeping it to between 1100 and 1200 calories per day. What an eye opener to really pay attention to a true serving size, even with a plant-based diet. I also upped my daily work outs to be more strenuous. Many positive outcomes, however I started to get a lot of bruises, especially on the back of my calves. Big ugly ones. It almost looked like someone was hitting me. I did some research and realized it is an iron deficiency. I went to the local Vitamin Shoppe for a vegan iron supplement recommendation. I told the guy I definitely did not want one that would jack up my system. A woman at another store told me to take Megafood Blood Builder Mini's, and they are amazing. My bruises faded quickly and I haven't gotten any weird ones that can't be accounted for. And no constipation. Not only does it have iron, but it also is made with beets, oranges, and broccoli. One other added plus is it also contains B12, which vegans lack in their diet.

So, an FYI for anyone looking for a vegan iron supplement.

https://www.amazon.com/MegaFood-Builder-Production-Constipation-Gluten-Free/dp/B076DJSPSQ/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1525724306&sr=8-3&keywords=megafood+blood+builder+minis

Thank you for the tip Tantalizing! It is really appreciated.:rrose:

[tantalizingfemme]

Tantalizing??? I made the vegan gyro and it was sooooo good! I even had an extra one for my bff/sil to sample and she loved it too!

My blender died though, when I used the fresh chicken peas to make hummus. It's officially broken tho, because I kept buzzing the contents of the hummus mix until the rubber blade parts came flying out below the blender, lol (or not).

But the hummus is yummy too! :)

I really like the vegan gyro recipe and it will become an anchor type meal I make often. It was that good!

Thanks so much, Tantalizing! :bunchflowers:

Oh no!! I am glad you enjoyed the meals, but it is no bueno for your blender!

Thank you for the tip Tantalizing! It is really appreciated.:rrose:

:)

[tantalizingfemme]

Going to a friends for dinner tonight and making this for the first time. Fingers crossed it comes out as good as it looks in the pictures.

Chocolate, Peanut butter, and Oreo Cheesecake:

https://thegreedyvegan.blog/2018/06/18/chocolate-peanut-butter-cheesecake/

[Greco]

It's been a while since I've shared one of
my Green Smoothie recipes so here is today's:

After my run this morning...all ingredients are
Organic And Non-GMO

aloe vera approx. 4 oz

Bragg's nutritional
yeast for Bvits 1 tablespoon

wheat grass
powder 1 "

ground chia
seeds 1 "

beet greens 1 handful
high in potassium

Spinach 1"
protein and then
some

blueberries 1"

bananas 2

almonds 1 handful

filtered H2O 32 oz

+ love and gratitude

It was delicious, and will have the other
half for dinner at 4pm...have found that my
body loves a green smoothie not too late
or else I'll be awake until later than usual.

Enjoy

whole-plant based eating, Greco

[candy_coated_bitch]

Favorite vegan cheese I should try...GO!

[nycfem]

Favorite vegan cheese I should try...GO!

My favorite Is Daiya. Very good for pizzas.

[candy_coated_bitch]

My favorite Is Daiya. Very good for pizzas.

Thank you! I am having a hell of a time giving up cheese, but am wanting to head at least more in the direction of being vegan if not being totally vegan.

[kittygrrl]

Favorite vegan cheese I should try...GO!

it really depends what you're looking for, none of them melt well..but my favs at the moment

Chao Creamery Vegan Cheese, Slices, Field Roast -for grilled cheese sandwich etc.-

Treeline Treenut(French-style) Cheese-is a soft spreadable cheese made from cashews. They have several varieties but I've only had the herb garlic and it was good-

to be truthful, I haven't had a Vegan cheese that is an exact copy of dairy cheese, but they are getting better with time!

it's fun to have a Vegan cheese party for 2 or 20 and try several- create a cheese board with crackers, figs, grapes and wine

[candy_coated_bitch]

it really depends what you're looking for, none of them melt well..but my favs at the moment

Chao Creamery Vegan Cheese, Slices, Field Roast -for grilled cheese sandwich etc.-

Treeline Treenut(French-style) Cheese-is a soft spreadable cheese made from cashews. They have several varieties but I've only had the herb garlic and it was good-

to be truthful, I haven't had a Vegan cheese that is an exact copy of dairy cheese, but they are getting better with time!

it's fun to have a Vegan cheese party and try several- create a cheese board crackers, figs, grapes and wine

Yeah, I guess I need to just let go of the notion that I will have melty cheese. I am looking for something to make like grilled cheeses (so thank you for that suggestion), pizza type things (so thank you nycfem) and also something for quesadillas.

That's a really great idea to have a cheese tasting party. I wonder if I could get anyone to do it with me, but if not I'll just splurge and get some of the cheeses you all have suggested and test them out. I love a good cheese plate!!!

[nycfem]

Love your idea, kittygrrl. Wish we all on this thread lived closer so we could have that party. There are specific vegan cheese only stores in New York- or at least one that I know of! Maybe also join some vegan groups on FB and ask so you have a bigger group of people to get input from- not that we all don't rock, cuz we do :)

[candy_coated_bitch]

Love your idea, kittygrrl. Wish we all on this thread lived closer so we could have that party. There are specific vegan cheese only stores in New York- or at least one that I know of! Maybe also join some vegan groups on FB and ask so you have a bigger group of people to get input from- not that we all don't rock, cuz we do :)

I wish I lived in NYC so it would be easier to be vegan but I am not in a bad area for having vegan options so I shouldn't complain too much. I'd love a cheese tasting party with you guys! I never thought of a FB group--another great suggestion.

[nycfem]

Dinner required a re-do tonight. First I made steamed spinach with artichoke hearts, garlic powder, roasted chestnuts, and boiled beets. It was just terrible, so bland! Vegheads, what should I have added to make it delicious?

My dinner re-do was my current favorite: carrots and onions and tofu sauteed in EVOO with curry and soy sauce.

[Kätzchen]

Dinner required a re-do tonight. First I made steamed spinach with artichoke hearts, garlic powder, roasted chestnuts, and boiled beets. It was just terrible, so bland! Vegheads, what should I have added to make it delicious?

My dinner re-do was my current favorite: carrots and onions and tofu sauteed in EVOO with curry and soy sauce.

Maybe, after steaming the spinach and artichoke hearts, you could process them together with a smidge of horseradish, vegan mayo and a titch of turmeric powder, to make a dip, then serve the dip with Trader Joe's Savory Thin Rice Cracker's made with multi-seeds and Tamari sauce?

I like to roast beets in the oven..... and pair the Beets with other vegetables like Parsnips, Carrots and Delicata Squash (roast them all together). Most likely I'd drizzle some Orange miso dressing over the roasted veggies.... and eat them just like they are.

NYC? here's an recipe that is vegan and uses artichokes and jalapeno peppers and cashew cream, but you could add steamed spinach too, I think.

LINK ~~>>>> Spicy Vegan Artichoke Dip Recipe (https://www.theedgyveg.com/2013/11/06/spicy-vegan-artichoke-dip-recipe/)

https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Gi-96R2zl4/WT62LeCz1II/AAAAAAAAZ7c/AMxXwIzK0BQ-212KK9B5kQ4QgMsYFGG6QCLcB/s640/DSC05110.JPG

[candy_coated_bitch]

I LOVE those crackers. Just sayin'.

[tantalizingfemme]

Dinner required a re-do tonight. First I made steamed spinach with artichoke hearts, garlic powder, roasted chestnuts, and boiled beets. It was just terrible, so bland! Vegheads, what should I have added to make it delicious?

My dinner re-do was my current favorite: carrots and onions and tofu sauteed in EVOO with curry and soy sauce.

Ok Jen, I gotta admit, this is an odd assortment to put together. :) My first reaction was to the beets. I can't eat them (taste like dirt) so my first thought was to just throw the whole dish out. lol

Because all of your ingredients are really fairly mild in flavor (if you really want to try this out again) I would suggest maybe adding some tomato paste, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and small amount of liquid smoke to add some flavor. I would take a couple of tablespoons of vegetable broth, and add it to a saute pan. Add like two tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke and whisk until smooth and heated through. Then add your vegetables and saute to coat. I still would omit the beets because I am not entirely sure how it would taste. (Maybe serve them on the side)

Edited to add, how about adding some green or greek olives too?

Good luck!

[A. Spectre]

Our order from The Herbivorous Butcher arrived a few days ago, it included brats, rib-eyes, burgers etc...for anyone who was/is a carnivore and enjoy the texture of meat, I highly recommend.

Obviously, their "meat" is meat free, and their cheeses are 100%vegan. They make small batches of meat free meat and cheeses by hand. This brother and sister team is out of Minneapolis, their shipping and packaging are top notch. They make their own shipping coolers.

If any of you order from them, let me know what you think.

[Gemme]

Ok Jen, I gotta admit, this is an odd assortment to put together. :) My first reaction was to the beets. I can't eat them (taste like dirt) so my first thought was to just throw the whole dish out. lol

Because all of your ingredients are really fairly mild in flavor (if you really want to try this out again) I would suggest maybe adding some tomato paste, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and small amount of liquid smoke to add some flavor. I would take a couple of tablespoons of vegetable broth, and add it to a saute pan. Add like two tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of worcestershire sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke and whisk until smooth and heated through. Then add your vegetables and saute to coat. I still would omit the beets because I am not entirely sure how it would taste. (Maybe serve them on the side)

Edited to add, how about adding some green or greek olives too?

Good luck!

The first thing I thought when I read her list was to make a beet puree and scrap the rest. lol

[tantalizingfemme]

The first thing I thought when I read her list was to make a beet puree and scrap the rest. lol

Bless you beet eaters.

[tantalizingfemme]

Our order from The Herbivorous Butcher arrived a few days ago, it included brats, rib-eyes, burgers etc...for anyone who was/is a carnivore and enjoy the texture of meat, I highly recommend.

Obviously, their "meat" is meat free, and their cheeses are 100%vegan. They make small batches of meat free meat and cheeses by hand. This brother and sister team is out of Minneapolis, their shipping and packaging are top notch. They make their own shipping coolers.

If any of you order from them, let me know what you think.

Ok, A, I just ordered from them and can't wait to get all of the goodies. I ordered the pepperoni, mozzarella, maple sage breakfast sausage, maple glazed bacon, and the korean bbq ribs. I am excited to try the bacon because that is one thing I have attempted to make multiple different ways and have not been satisfied with the results. Also, I have thought about making my own mozzarella, but I think I would like to see how theirs is first since their ingredients are similar to the recipes I have. Also, no added salt (other than what is in the soy sauce and such) which is awesome because that is why I stopped buying anything pre-made, like sausages, because the sodium levels are ridiculous and I would feel like shit after eating them. Add in freezer friendly and free shipping and I am good! Thanks for introducing this to me!

[A. Spectre]

I failed to mention this re The Herbivorous Butcher.

They also run a farm animal rescue sanctuary! Look at the pictures on their web site!

[Gemme]

Anytime anyone doesn't want their beets, send them my way! Roasted, zoodled, Harvard, pickled, et cetera. The only way I can't remember having them is fried and now that that is in my head, I'm going to think about that.

:thinking:

I'm currently making a batch of spaghetti sauce (gravy, if you prefer) with Morningstar Farms Grillers Crumbles, some leftover fresh salsa, fresh garlic, an herbed and garlic sauce base and mushrooms. I've used it before as a meat substitute and it worked out really well although this particular combination is new. I bought some chipotle salsa that I didn't really like and didn't want to waste it so there you go. We'll see.

[kittygrrl]

if you're into mushrooms like i am then you might enjoy mushrooms, browned in a Vegan butter (i use Miyoko's), take out of pan and add a bit more butter, brown sweet onions, (with a bit of garlic) and if you like add some green, red and yellow bell peppers sliced. Cook a pasta in the meanwhile, drain. Put pasta in bottom of casserole dish. Layer with onion/pepper mixture, then add browned mushrooms. Then I top with a sprinkle of Vegan Mozz and Poppyseeds (my weakness). Bake until cheese slightly melts or warmed thru. Serve with an avocado and tomato salad. It's simple and kinda heavenly if you love that sort of thing.

[kittygrrl]

Three Girls Vegan Creamery-worthy

http://www.threegirlsvegan.com/?v=7516fd43adaa

[kittygrrl]

having tea..earl grey with a thin slice of Vegan banana bread & coconut yogurt topped with a sprinkle of granola & berry compote

[tantalizingfemme]

Game changer. Homemade vegan bouillon powder.

http://www.plantpowercouple.com/recipes/homemade-vegan-bouillon-powder/

[tantalizingfemme]

Two of my favorite things:

Vegan cream of asparagus soup. So good and so easy.
https://thatgirlcookshealthy.com/vegan-asparagus-soup-recipe/ (And I only use the low fat coconut milk from the can. I like my soups thicker and the other coconut milk, not in the can, is much thinner.)

And if you are a fan of Annie's Goddess dressing, you have to try this. This is as close as you can get without going out and buying it. (I only use tahini, low fat coconut milk from the can, and soy sauce, not tamari)

1/3 cup tahini (or cashew butter)
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1/2 + cup chopped green onion
1 tbsp sesame seed
2 tbsp gluten free soy sauce or tamari sauce (Coconut aminos for whole 30 option)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp lemon juice (1/2 a lemon squeezed)
1/4 to 1/2 tsp sea salt and black pepper each (to taste)
1 tsp minced garlic or 2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup coconut milk or almond milk (see notes for this)
1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil
optional – to make thinner dressing add in 2 tbsp water or a bit more oil.

Be sure to chop all your veggies first. Measure them out.
Place everything but the oil in a food processor. Pulse or thin out. Then keep the food processor running and add in your oil slolwy. Add more onion or salt at the end if desired. (And I throw it all in at once. I don't add the oil separately.)

[paintedleofemme]

Hi everyone, vegetarian here, married to a carnivore, which makes life very hard because she sometimes pushes meat on me! If I could find a vegetarian FTM or butch in my area to hang out with that would be great!:sushi::sushi:

[Gemme]

Hi everyone, vegetarian here, married to a carnivore, which makes life very hard because she sometimes pushes meat on me! If I could find a vegetarian FTM or butch in my area to hang out with that would be great!:sushi::sushi:

Forgive me if I'm not understanding correctly, but why only an FTM or butch? Why not a femme vegetarian? Why restrict your focus?

[Esme nha Maire]

I've been slowly trending towards vegetarianism for years, mostly on ecological grounds, and have tried various vegetarian alternatives to meat and cheeses out of a combination of curiosity and, well, I've been a lifelong picky eater that wouldnt eat my greens! Going for the ersatz version of what I was eating previously seemed the easy way into eating a more ecologically efficient diet.

I was delighted to find that a chain store called Iceland here in the UK has started stocking vegetarian and vegan meat alternatives and ready meals both in serious quantity and reliably, too - as in, it's not just a short term thing that will dissapear from their range in a few months time. They do these veggie-burgers (as in a burger-sized patty in breadcrumbs that contains all kinds of mixed beggies, NOT a fake meat burger) that I get on with fine, so for the first time in my life I'm eating SOME greens and general veggies practically every day!

I also get some greens from having the occasional pizza which apparently uses humous (spelling?) instead of cheese and is covered with tomato chunks and green stuff that I thiunk may be spinach. Tastes good! They also carry an excellent range of fake-beef burgers ("No Bull" burgers - theyre made in France), although the fake pulled-pork burgers from teh same range arent anything to write home about, bit lacking in flavour if y'ask me.

What with the fake cheeses available now, the only thing stopping me from going full vegetarian is milk. As in, milk I can put in a cup of tea and end up with a nice tasting cup of tea. Some of the fake milks taste OK to drink as they are to me, but in tea? YEUCH! If anyone here knows of a good substitute for cows milk to be added to tea, please let me know!

I don't lose any sleep over eating the occasional bit of meat, especially as I've never been a great meat-eater anyway*, but aside from a cheese and ham sandwich the other day, I havent eaten any meat in weeks now. Nor bacon in many months. I started finding real bacon as gross a it is tasty a couple of years ago (it's the fat and texture; I prefer the texture of the fake stuff) And that last can of corned beef on my shelf - oh my, but that stuff is yummy, but heck, I'm on tablets for blood pressure, so I really shouldnt eat anything that salty anymore. I'm erring ever closer to donating it to a food bank. It'll be a bit of a landmark when that goes, one way or another, I think. Its been there untouched for about half a year now. I'm determined that I wont be buying any more, because it's bad for me.

*if you're wondering what the heck a non-vegetarian that doesnt like greens and didn't eat much meat either (nor fruit, come to that!) ate - mostly staples and a little something extra for flavour. Somwhow I managed to avoid any serious dietary deficiencies, but how I have no idea!

[Esme nha Maire]

I recently spotted that BirdsEye are now making fake meat burgers from pea protein. I hadn't realised that that was a thing. So naturally I bought some to try. They were pretty good!

Flavour-wise, if anything they seemed to suggest a hint of pork rather than beef* which is great as it means that by switching between brands of burgers I can experience a range of tastes rather than same old, same old all the time. Texture and everything else was fine.

What I don't know yet, but hope to look into, is the ecological aspect of making fake meat products, be they from soya, mycoprotein or pea protein. At the moment, I am just hoping that it's better to eat fake meat burgers, ecologically speaking, than the real thing. If anyone reading this has some hard info on the matter, I'd love to see it!

[candy_coated_bitch]

For those of you who transitioned out of eating dairy, how did you go about it? I'm not sure I can be 100% vegan or not but I really want to cut back on my dairy intake. Mostly cheese trips me up. It's one of my all time favorite foods and it seems like all my favorite foods have cheese in it. Also, there really is no substitute for dairy in a cup of tea. Really, I've tried.

Also, I need to do veganism on the cheap, which is very difficult. People always tell you it's cheaper to cook for yourself and I scoff at that when I can buy a box of mac and cheese for 88¢ or a thing of ramen for a dollar or two. That's several meals right there for like $5 when you count milk and butter for the mac and cheese.

Buying a bunch of fresh veggies and cooking is not cheaper than how I have to eat now, so any suggestions on how to make veganism more budget friendly, let me know. I don't cook a lot know besides things out of a box so I also do not have a well stocked pantry. So a recipe is like an investment what with having to buy spices and all.

Help please! I don't feel like I can overhaul my entire diet at once but am looking more for suggestions of where to start small.

[easygoingfemme]

CCB, do you have a crock pot? I have a couple of really low cost vegan dishes that I like to do in a crockpot. Very much- dump in ingredients and turn it on and come back in 6-8 hours.

One is a vegan split pea soup. I think that the last time I broke it down it came to about $5 for about 12 servings of soup.

Another is a red bean stew I like to make, red beans with a can of diced tomato, chopped carrots, and any other veggies that might sound good. Spice it up with either regular savory items like garlic, or spice it up with hot sauce. Good plain or over rice or with a piece of cornbread. If you catch the canned goods when they are on sale and stock up it helps make it even less expensive than it already is.

[kittygrrl]

For those of you who transitioned out of eating dairy, how did you go about it? I'm not sure I can be 100% vegan or not but I really want to cut back on my dairy intake. Mostly cheese trips me up. It's one of my all time favorite foods and it seems like all my favorite foods have cheese in it. Also, there really is no substitute for dairy in a cup of tea. Really, I've tried.

Also, I need to do veganism on the cheap, which is very difficult. People always tell you it's cheaper to cook for yourself and I scoff at that when I can buy a box of mac and cheese for 88¢ or a thing of ramen for a dollar or two. That's several meals right there for like $5 when you count milk and butter for the mac and cheese.

Buying a bunch of fresh veggies and cooking is not cheaper than how I have to eat now, so any suggestions on how to make veganism more budget friendly, let me know. I don't cook a lot know besides things out of a box so I also do not have a well stocked pantry. So a recipe is like an investment what with having to buy spices and all.

Help please! I don't feel like I can overhaul my entire diet at once but am looking more for suggestions of where to start small.

Sweetest CCB..when i was vegan i found this little miracle "nooch"(nutritional yeast)http://www.hungryhungryhippie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5201.jpg that gives a cheesy flavor to just about any dish..it really helped! It's a great little investment to replace some of the dairy you will be craving! Ask for it in your health food store..you may even find it in a regular grocery.

[nycfem]

I'm a vegetarian not a vegan (as you know), but I recommend big bags of frozen veggies which you can add to tofu and soy sauce to make an easy stir-fry. Fresh veggies go bad so quickly.

For those of you who transitioned out of eating dairy, how did you go about it? I'm not sure I can be 100% vegan or not but I really want to cut back on my dairy intake. Mostly cheese trips me up. It's one of my all time favorite foods and it seems like all my favorite foods have cheese in it. Also, there really is no substitute for dairy in a cup of tea. Really, I've tried.

Also, I need to do veganism on the cheap, which is very difficult. People always tell you it's cheaper to cook for yourself and I scoff at that when I can buy a box of mac and cheese for 88¢ or a thing of ramen for a dollar or two. That's several meals right there for like $5 when you count milk and butter for the mac and cheese.

Buying a bunch of fresh veggies and cooking is not cheaper than how I have to eat now, so any suggestions on how to make veganism more budget friendly, let me know. I don't cook a lot know besides things out of a box so I also do not have a well stocked pantry. So a recipe is like an investment what with having to buy spices and all.

Help please! I don't feel like I can overhaul my entire diet at once but am looking more for suggestions of where to start small.

[candy_coated_bitch]

CCB, do you have a crock pot? I have a couple of really low cost vegan dishes that I like to do in a crockpot. Very much- dump in ingredients and turn it on and come back in 6-8 hours.

One is a vegan split pea soup. I think that the last time I broke it down it came to about $5 for about 12 servings of soup.

Another is a red bean stew I like to make, red beans with a can of diced tomato, chopped carrots, and any other veggies that might sound good. Spice it up with either regular savory items like garlic, or spice it up with hot sauce. Good plain or over rice or with a piece of cornbread. If you catch the canned goods when they are on sale and stock up it helps make it even less expensive than it already is.

I have a crock pot but it's a little mini one.

Sweetest CCB..when i was vegan i found this little miracle "nooch"(nutritional yeast)http://www.hungryhungryhippie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/IMG_5201.jpg that gives a cheesy flavor to just about any dish..it really helped! It's a great little investment to replace some of the dairy you will be craving! Ask for it in your health food store..you may even find it in a regular grocery.





Thank you!! I will try it.

I'm a vegetarian not a vegan (as you know), but I recommend big bags of frozen veggies which you can add to tofu and soy sauce to make an easy stir-fry. Fresh veggies go bad so quickly.

Good idea!

[Kätzchen]

For those of you who transitioned out of eating dairy, how did you go about it? I'm not sure I can be 100% vegan or not but I really want to cut back on my dairy intake. Mostly cheese trips me up. It's one of my all time favorite foods and it seems like all my favorite foods have cheese in it. Also, there really is no substitute for dairy in a cup of tea. Really, I've tried.

Also, I need to do veganism on the cheap, which is very difficult. People always tell you it's cheaper to cook for yourself and I scoff at that when I can buy a box of mac and cheese for 88¢ or a thing of ramen for a dollar or two. That's several meals right there for like $5 when you count milk and butter for the mac and cheese.

Buying a bunch of fresh veggies and cooking is not cheaper than how I have to eat now, so any suggestions on how to make veganism more budget friendly, let me know. I don't cook a lot know besides things out of a box so I also do not have a well stocked pantry. So a recipe is like an investment what with having to buy spices and all.

Help please! I don't feel like I can overhaul my entire diet at once but am looking more for suggestions of where to start small.

In my case, regarding milk (all dairy products), I just had to stop consuming dairy products because any diary product converts to sugar in the blood stream, almost instantaneously (at least in my case, that's how it went down). I also broke our in rashes; rashes that took a long time to heal.


I drink Coconut milk or coconut water instead of dairy.

I can't have soy products due to how soy products affect my natural hormone structures (female hormones) and how it has the potential to make my heart condition worse. So I don't use soy products, anymore. I did, in the beginning. But my blood tests revealed hormone changes, which my doctor linked to soy consumption; so I don't eat soy products anymore.

I am kind of a cross between being vegetarian and vegan in that I don't eat products produced by animals or eat animal meat -- EXCEPT -- for tuna, I do have Tuna in seasonal ways, maybe less than five or 6 times a year, and I do like to have boiled eggs, but not often. I don't like to eat any traditional animal meat.... because of I feel it's cruel, eating animals or raising animals to eat them. I just can't do it, for a number of reasons.


Not eating dairy is super important, for my own health recovery. Not eating things that convert easily to sugar in the blood stream is even harder. Giving up breads and certain types of grains, like pasta, was and is very hard on me... but I just commit to do the best I can, every day.

I think it's a hard thing to do, to look out for your own health and hope that one is making the right choices. I say just do what is best for you, CCB.

Enjoy what you can, while you can. Because that's what I do.


Stick with what works for you and hopefully you'll find some great cheese alternatives out there, that you can get once in a while.

Tonight I stopped at Trader Joe's and they had cartons of fresh Mission Figs.

I bought some. I'd share, if I wasn't out here on the west coast. You're out on the east coast, so that's a loooong ways from where I live. Do you like Mission Figs?

[candy_coated_bitch]

In my case, regarding milk (all dairy products), I just had to stop consuming dairy products because any diary product converts to sugar in the blood stream, almost instantaneously (at least in my case, that's how it went down). I also broke our in rashes; rashes that took a long time to heal.


I drink Coconut milk or coconut water instead of dairy.

I can't have soy products due to how soy products affect my natural hormone structures (female hormones) and how it has the potential to make my heart condition worse. So I don't use soy products, anymore. I did, in the beginning. But my blood tests revealed hormone changes, which my doctor linked to soy consumption; so I don't eat soy products anymore.

I am kind of a cross between being vegetarian and vegan in that I don't eat products produced by animals or eat animal meat -- EXCEPT -- for tuna, I do have Tuna in seasonal ways, maybe less than five or 6 times a year, and I do like to have boiled eggs, but not often. I don't like to eat any traditional animal meat.... because of I feel it's cruel, eating animals or raising animals to eat them. I just can't do it, for a number of reasons.


Not eating dairy is super important, for my own health recovery. Not eating things that convert easily to sugar in the blood stream is even harder. Giving up breads and certain types of grains, like pasta, was and is very hard on me... but I just commit to do the best I can, every day.

I think it's a hard thing to do, to look out for your own health and hope that one is making the right choices. I say just do what is best for you, CCB.

Enjoy what you can, while you can. Because that's what I do.


Stick with what works for you and hopefully you'll find some great cheese alternatives out there, that you can get once in a while.

Tonight I stopped at Trader Joe's and they had cartons of fresh Mission Figs.

I bought some. I'd share, if I wasn't out here on the west coast. You're out on the east coast, so that's a loooong ways from where I live. Do you like Mission Figs?

For me, dairy doesn't quickly convert to sugars. Luckily. White flour, forget it. And I'm relying way too much on that in my diet because it's cheap. I was hoping making more dairy free choices would help me move away from relying on boxes of mac and cheese or frozen pizza or pasta roni. They're so cheap and so easy but it's not great on my blood sugar.

Frozen veggies and tofu stir fry like nycfem suggested should be affordable, as well as cans of beans and crock pot meals. I will also try the nutritional yeast.

I'm not even looking to go vegan cold turkey, just stop relying and cheese/carb combo as the basis of my diet. I have no issues with consuming soy and like almond milk. Still don't think it tastes good in tea though lol.

PS: THNK YOU everyone!! I do not care for figs.

[easygoingfemme]

If you decide to go with vegan, or try it, I think it might be wise to find 3-4 dishes that you like and are able to make and rotate them for a few while you get used to the changes. You don't have to pressure yourself to figure it all out right now if you don't mind some repetition in your meals?

[Esme nha Maire]

For those of you who transitioned out of eating dairy, how did you go about it? I'm not sure I can be 100% vegan or not but I really want to cut back on my dairy intake. Mostly cheese trips me up. It's one of my all time favorite foods and it seems like all my favorite foods have cheese in it. Also, there really is no substitute for dairy in a cup of tea. Really, I've tried.

Also, I need to do veganism on the cheap, which is very difficult. People always tell you it's cheaper to cook for yourself and I scoff at that when I can buy a box of mac and cheese for 88¢ or a thing of ramen for a dollar or two. That's several meals right there for like $5 when you count milk and butter for the mac and cheese.

Buying a bunch of fresh veggies and cooking is not cheaper than how I have to eat now, so any suggestions on how to make veganism more budget friendly, let me know. I don't cook a lot know besides things out of a box so I also do not have a well stocked pantry. So a recipe is like an investment what with having to buy spices and all.

Help please! I don't feel like I can overhaul my entire diet at once but am looking more for suggestions of where to start small.


Hi, CCB! My partcular solution to The Cheese Problem is in four parts.

The first is fake cheeses. Now, some people don't rate any of the fake cheeses at all, but cheese being such a varied product, it's somewhat dependent on what you expect and like of a cheese. The fake cheeses also vary widely in flavour and feel. Unfortunately one thing they all have in common tends to be that they are still more expensive than the real thing, so..

- the second part is to use less cheese but (whether real or fake) but slice it thinner, grate it, anything that breaks it into smaller/tiny pieces. You should find that, taste-wise, you can get the same cheese hit from a smaller amount of cheese by using sprinkles or slivers instead of thick slices of the stuff. It's a bit like how chocolate with air bubbles in give you a more intense chocolate flavour hit than the same weight of chocolate with no bubbles - more cheese exposed to air = more cheese flavour per unit weight.

- the third part is to buy the non-dairy cheese as a treat when I can afford it, but otherwise use the dairy stuff. But because I'm being sparing with it either way, I'm using a lot less cheese than I used to before I made a determined effort to go as vegetarian as I can.

- the fourth part is that there is now cheap ready-made stuff you can buy that incorporates cheese or some form of cheese substitute (at least, here in the UK - I shop at Iceland). For instance, I sometimes buy spicy nacho beanburgers that are vegan aside from the cheese content, and they're very tasty even though, so far as I can see, there isn't that much cheese in them. I also sometimes buy vegan pizzas that use humus where cheese would normally be used. To my extreme surprise, this works pretty well, not giving me the cheese hit, but giving me teh yummy pizza hit and oh, there was something a bit like cheese in there somewhere.

Typing this has brought to mind one of my favourite cheap, simple dishes - cheesy rice. I haven't made that in ages! I cover the rice with just enough water that once the water has almost boiled away the rice is nicely soft and sticky (I like my rice sticky so it can be eaten with chopsticks more easily). But a little while before it's finished cooking, I add a tiny smidge of butter (or margerine) and a very small amount of cheese and stir it in. This is enough, for me, to give me that "Yum! I've eaten cheese!" feeling whilst not actually having used much cheese at all.

Hmmn.. just thought of another thing - add tomato, when appropriate. Tomato is a natural source of MSG (monosodium glutamate), so tends to enhance the yum factor of savoury foods. I've been known to smear a little of something tomatoey (ketchup, tomato soup (even from the powdered stuff!) on top of a slice of toast with a nearly transparent layer of cheese on it - the bread gives the bulk, the cheese and tomato give the flavour even though there isnt much of either. If you like garlic flavour, tiny tiny amounts of garlic puree can also add quite a flavour hit for very little cost.

Of course, what works for individuals will vary depending on individual sense of taste, whats available in the area, and budget. I spend markedly less than average on food, but then I might be lucky in whats available locally. I cant sensibly use fresh ingredients because I have a fridge with only a tiny freezer cubbyhole, and even the smallest packs of mixed vegetables (which ALWAYS seem to contain at least one thing I hate and have to pick out!) are too large and will go off before I could use them all. So it;s cans and ready -prepared stuff for me plus staples like rice and pasta, and a few bits and bobs (lik cheese!) to add flavour.

Hope that's of some help!

[Gemme]

I have a crock pot but it's a little mini one.

You can just divide the original recipe to the size you have.


Good idea!

If you decide to go with vegan, or try it, I think it might be wise to find 3-4 dishes that you like and are able to make and rotate them for a few while you get used to the changes. You don't have to pressure yourself to figure it all out right now if you don't mind some repetition in your meals?


This is a really good idea, as is stocking up on frozen veggies like nyc said. The mart of Wal has bags for as low as .84/each and there are some discount stores that have a freezer section. I shop Stop & Shop's reduced produce area and often pick up lots of goodies. Last week, I got a package of 4 large peppers for less than $2. As long as you use them within a couple days of purchase, they should be fine.

As for spices, go to the Dollar Tree, CCB. They have good sized spices that are fine for a buck each or you can shop Amazon. They have 'starter packs' of spices for $12-16 for each pack and you get 8-10 different spices in each pack.

There are two community garden organizations near you, one of which is organic. We're winding down for summer but they still may have some packages that might work for your budget.

Like anything else in this world, it's one step at a time.

[nycfem]

Just wanted to add that this same dish comes out very nice using riced cauliflower which can be bought or made. Riced cauliflower is cauliflower diced to the size of individual pieces of rice. And supermarkets also sell riced cauliflower with and without cheese. With good deals on frozen.



Typing this has brought to mind one of my favourite cheap, simple dishes - cheesy rice. I haven't made that in ages! I cover the rice with just enough water that once the water has almost boiled away the rice is nicely soft and sticky (I like my rice sticky so it can be eaten with chopsticks more easily). But a little while before it's finished cooking, I add a tiny smidge of butter (or margerine) and a very small amount of cheese and stir it in. This is enough, for me, to give me that "Yum! I've eaten cheese!" feeling whilst not actually having used much cheese at all.

[girl_dee]

*tip toes in*

I just wanted to share that I had Tofu ice cream the other day....

it was SOOO GOOD !

[candy_coated_bitch]

Thank you Esme! Thank you Gemme! Thank you you nycfem! I'm making note of everyone's great ideas!

[Esme nha Maire]

Earlier today I went food shopping and bought some "nutritional yeast flakes" similar to those mentioned by kittygrrl, and a new (to me) type of fake milk, made from pea protein, brand name "The Might Society original pea mylk" Info on pea milk can be found on th Holland & Barrett website.

I've only tried some of the yeast flakes sprinkled on buttered crackers so far - the result was enjoyably tasty, and I'm looking forward to experimenting further with it.

The pea milk was the big surprise. Bearing in mind that I have always consumed a LOT of milk - more than anyone else I know - ideally I'm wanting something I can drink glassfuls of now and then, that also tastes good in tea and doesn't cause me tummy upsets. Other milk substitutes have all failed dismally in tea, one or two I could happily drink by the glassful, although soy, I discovered, can give me a mild tunny upset, which puzzles me as soy meat products I'm fine with.

The pea milk smelt a little like vanilla , but not quite as pleasant. To my great surprise, it was acceptable in tea! Didnt taste quite as good as cows milk, but certainly didnt ruin the taste. I did find the smell offputting - I'm not a fan of flavoured teas like Earl Grey, see, and that unfamiliar smell where I'm not used to it - it's a negative for me, even though the smell in and of itself isn't unpleasant. But heck, if there was no cows milk in the house and I wanted a cuppa? Yes, I WOULD use this in my tea, concentrate on the taste of the tea and just do my best to ignore the smell.

I also drank a couple of glasses of the milk. I later had a mild tunny rebellion, but I am not 100% sure it was the milk that caused it - I also had a soy-based desert, and that may have had a hand in things, or the combination of that with the unfamilar type of milk.

Main drawback - the price. But if you only use milk in tea or coffee and dont guzzle the stuff like I tend to, this might not be a huge problem.

[Esme nha Maire]

additional to my last post - I finished off the remaining half carton of pea milk the following day and was absolutely fine. Also discovered that apparently there are several brands of pea milk available and most of them offer a vanilla-flavoured type - so it is possible to get an unflavoured pea milk. Looks like I'm sorted for non-dairy milk, now, then!