In the simplest terms plant-based cooking is cooking with plants as well as beans, whole grains, starchy veggies and more. It’s void of dairy, poultry, meat and seafood. Ingredients including flour, refined sugar and oils are kept to a minimum.
As I’ve shared with you all several times, I’m not at all vegan. However, for several years now, I’ve started each year with a 3-week, completely plant-based diet. My primary reason for this was spiritual, but I have found several benefits to my body from doing this intermittently throughout the year. For me, the key to making this process successful and seamless lies completely in the planning of it. If you are considering starting or trying a plant-based diet, here are some tips to get you started.
5 Plant Based Cooking Tips To Get Started
Purchase and Try One New Ingredient Per Week
If you’re fortunate enough to live near a variety of grocery stores, take advantage of the fact and buy and try (at least) one new ingredient per week.
In the event you’re not altogether sure how to incorporate it into your menu, don’t panic! Simply use your favorite search engine for research purposes. Chances are, you’ll glean tons of info before you know it!
Prep Enough Veggies for Several Day’s Use
Save time and money, by prepping enough vegetables for several day’s use. Stored properly, most will remain fresh in the fridge for two to three days… sometimes longer. Another option is to freeze some of these pre-prepped veggies, which is an even better idea when produce goes on sale.
Learn to Love Stir Fry
Stir fry is the perfect dish for plant-based cooking. Invest in a high-quality (non-stick) sauté pan or wok. Non-stick means you can typically substitute your favorite broth for cooking oil. It’s a win-win situation all around.
Watch Cooking Videos
Thanks to the popularity of YouTube and similar platforms, it’s easier than ever to find informative videos covering plant-based diets. Cooking blogs represent another wonderful resource.
Whatever sites you choose, set aside a few minutes each day to discover something tasty and new. If you happen to be a visual learner, this tip is definitely for you!
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This is a very brief overview of plant-based cooking. If you’re searching for a healthier way of eating, it might just be the one. Many people recommend starting out slow and working your way up to a full-blown menu. But, remember, the choice is completely up to you!
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