Cooking with Plant-based Alternatives

Eating plant-based is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Plant-based alternatives offer a variety of health, environmental, and ethical benefits. In this article, we'll explore how to get started with plant-based cooking, the benefits of plant-based alternatives, tips for choosing the right plant-based substitutes, and easy-to-follow recipes that will show you how to make a delicious, plant-based meal.

The Benefits of Plant-based Alternatives

There are many benefits to incorporating plant-based alternatives into your diet. Plant-based diets tend to be low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating more plant-based foods can also help reduce your risk of developing certain chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Additionally, plant-based diets are often more sustainable and ethically responsible than diets that rely heavily on animal products.

Choosing the Right Plant-based Alternatives

When it comes to choosing the right plant-based substitutes for traditional animal products, there are many options. Popular plant-based proteins include tofu, tempeh, seitan, and legumes, such as lentils and beans. In addition, there are many plant-based milks, such as almond, coconut, and oat milk. Plant-based butter, such as Earth Balance, is also widely available. Finally, there are many plant-based cheese alternatives, such as vegan cheese made from cashews or soy.

Easy Plant-based Recipes

Ready to get cooking? Here are some easy-to-follow recipes that will show you how to make a delicious, plant-based meal.

Vegan Buddha Bowl

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes
• 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup roasted walnuts
• 1/4 cup diced avocado
• 1/4 cup vegan tahini dressing

Instructions: Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes in olive oil and salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Meanwhile, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Heat black beans in a pan over medium heat. Assemble bowls by layering quinoa, black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, red onion, walnuts, and avocado. Drizzle with vegan tahini dressing and enjoy!

Vegan Mac and Cheese

• 1 cup cooked macaroni noodles
• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup plant-based milk
• 1/4 cup vegan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. In a medium saucepan, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add in plant-based milk and whisk until smooth. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until thickened. Add vegan cheese and stir until melted. Add cooked macaroni noodles and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Conclusion

Cooking with plant-based alternatives is a great way to enjoy the health, environmental, and ethical benefits of a plant-based diet. With the right plant-based substitutes and easy-to-follow recipes, you can create delicious plant-based meals that you and your family will love.