Did you know that more than 9.5 million people in the United States have switched to a vegan diet?
Going vegan might have meant a limited menu in the past, but there are plenty of options to choose from now.
If you are thinking about going vegan, there are a couple of food substitutes to be aware of.
Continue reading to discover some of the best vegan ingredients you can use to replace other options!
1. Egg Substitutes
If you are looking for vegan ingredients to replace eggs, bananas and applesauce are recommended.
Although you can’t make a sunnyside-up egg with these substitutions, you can still use them while baking. Since applesauce and bananas have such a light flavor, they don’t disrupt the flavor of the recipe.
Another popular egg substitute is the Just Egg product. Just Egg can be bought in liquid form or as frozen patties. This is perfect for breakfast and baking. Not only does it taste like eggs but it even has the same texture!
2. Jackfruit
If you are looking for vegan substitutions for meat, jackfruit is one of the best options to try.
Jackfruit is a healthy alternative because it is not processed and can add a lot of flavor and protein to your diet. This ingredient has been popular in Asia for quite some time and is just now making its debut in the US.
When jackfruit is shredded it can resemble pulled pork. You can also use it as taco meat or include it in stir-frys. Many stores have jackfruit nuggets that will satisfy your chicken nugget craving.
3. Milk Substitutions
If you are searching for the best replacement shakes for vegans, you should look into milk substitutions.
Almond, oat, and cashew milk are becoming more accessible and can even be ordered at your favorite coffee shops. People are adding this milk into their shakes, coffees, and vega recipes to add a creamy and yummy flavor.
The best part about getting milk substitutions is that they cut back on the negative side effects of consuming dairy. You can also find these substitutes in cheese, ice cream, and yogurts.
4. Plant-Based Meat
Making vegan meal plans can be a difficult task when you have children and meat lovers in the house.
By replacing your favorite proteins with plant-based meat, you can eat a vegan diet. Most grocery stores have a section in the frozen and refrigerator departments that is dedicated to these options.
Beyond Meat and Impossible Meat are two of the most common brands that people come across. They make ground “meat,” nuggets, and even sausages that you don’t have to feel guilty about eating.
5. Tofu
Did you know that tofu can be used for more than just meat replacements?
Many vegans use tofu when they are baking or want to thicken up sauces. Tofu adds an abundance of protein and can easily be added to your favorite meals. Tofu takes on the flavors that you introduce to it and can even be fried to add texture!
Don’t get discouraged by tofu. It has come a long way in quality and flavor since it first came out.
Try These Vegan Ingredients
Swapping unhealthy foods with vegan ingredients can make a big difference when cooking.
Most people associate vegan foods with bland and limited options. With the increase of vegan and vegetarian diets in the United States, however, there is an abundance of ingredients to choose from. No longer do you have to sacrifice good flavor for a healthy diet.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about vegan meals and eating a healthier diet!
