Ten Things Every Vegan Should Have In Their Pantries
Ten Things Every Vegan Should Have
It can be overwhelming and a bit intimidating to begin the process of veganizing your house and kitchen. Here is a quick help guide with the essentials to get you started on the road to delicious, healthy, and cruelty-free eating.
Beans
A great source of iron and protein, the possibilities are endless. Black bean burgers, lentil curry soup, chickpea frittatas, lentil loaf, yum!
Grains
Grains provide great fiber and work well in keeping you full and satisfied. Make overnight oats or breakfast muffins, and use quinoa or brown rice as your base for a delicious buddha bowl or a quick and easy stir fry.
Spices
Spices are everything when it comes to creating your meals. They can make your simple dinner go from drab to fab. Use this awesome visual guide to help make flavorful combos the whole family will enjoy.
Nutritional Yeast
If you like cheesy flavors, nutritional yeast is a perfect add-on to our pantry. Add a little to your pasta or sprinkle it over your popcorn for an added B12 boost. Not all nutritional yeast brands are fortified with B12 so be sure to check the label.
Soy Sauce/Coconut Aminos
Make flavorful stir frys, eggplant bacon, tofu, and tempeh marinades. You can use coconut aminos as a soy-free substitute as well.
Nuts
Natural nutritious sources of protein and energy you can make anything from simple trail mixes, protein bars/balls, to salad toppings.
Seeds
Seeds contain essential amino acids, minerals, and good fats. Sprinkle hemp seeds on your meals for added protein or use flax meal or chia seeds as egg substitutes.
Blackstrap Molasses
Before going vegan I had never heard of blackstrap molasses. It became a staple in our home after I found out it’s a great source of iron and calcium. Add a bit to your oatmeal, tomato sauce (as the vitamin C in tomatoes assist with the absorption of iron), or baked bean recipe.
Maple Syrup
Use as a natural sweetener in endless dessert and breakfast recipes. Or if you’re anything like my little nephew, smothering your pancakes with it will suffice.
Cacoa powder
More antioxidants than dark chocolate, and with the ability to fight a gloomy mood, start your morning off happy by adding a sprinkle to your smoothies and oats.
