How In The Heck Do I Cook Vegan

Written by LaTara Ham-Ying on April 9, 2008 at April 9th, 2008

Cooking Vegan is not as hard as it seems. The trick is to know how to prepare, season, and execute cooking. Through research and application even you can make a great vegan meal.

Understand that cooking vegan is really no different than any other meal you cook. You just have to learn to apply what you already know and if you don’t know then visit places like Vegan Family Living to find out more about cooking vegan.

When you cook vegan it is important that to most people, texture matters when it comes to food. Food can taste great but if the texture is not up to par, it will not be a fan favorite. For example when I cook spaghetti or tacos, I have learned that it is best to use Boca crumbles or TVP over Gimme Lean, especially when you are cooking for guests and children because they can be a picky bunch.

Another important thing to remember is to expand your seasoning selections. Most people have a few basics: garlic powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, and maybe some sage. I always tell my clients about expanding their seasoning options. Try Hungarian paprika, fennel, cumin, mole, fresh herbs, masala, smoke, vegetable broth, or even soups like cream of mushroom or dressings like a balsamic vinaigrette to jazz up your meal. There are so many ways to season your meals.

The wonderful thing about cooking and eating vegan is that your eyes open to so much more in the world of produce. So instead of cabbage for dinner, you can try kale, swiss chard, or another great tasting green. Instead of the typical cucumber try a different variety like the English cucumber.

Maybe you already have a few vegan recipes! Take a moment to see what dishes you make that are already vegan. Sit down and write a list of the meals you cook and place a check mark by the one that have no dairy or animal products in them. You will probably be surprised at the results.

The point I am trying to make is that cooking a vegan meal can be a great experience and it is not a difficult task, once you grab hold to the concepts of cooking vegan.