Vegetarian Ingredients To Include in Your Meal
As a meat eater, you may think vegetarian meals lack flavor and substance, but you think that a meal isn’t a meal without meat – right? We know that you may not want to remove meat from your menu completely, but you can cut it down, and it’s very easy to do.
By incorporating unexpected vegetarian ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, and quinoa into your meals, you can add depth and complexity that even the most seasoned meat lover will appreciate – seriously!
Mushrooms, for example, are a great meat substitute, they’ve got a meaty texture and umami flavor, but they also come in a variety of types and flavors that can add unique depth to your meals. You wouldn’t even miss the meat in these Veggie Birria Tacos. or mushroom pizza.
Eggplant, with its meaty texture and mild flavor, is a great ingredient to use in vegetarian meals, like Pasta alla Norma. It can be grilled, roasted, or sautéed and used in a variety of dishes. Try using it in place of meat in a vegetarian lasagna or moussaka, or slice it thinly and use it in place of noodles in a hearty eggplant parmigiana.
Nutritional yeast is a great ingredient to have on hand if you want to add a cheesy, umami flavor to your vegetarian dishes, like vegan chicken patties. This deactivated yeast is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals and can be used as a seasoning or a cheese substitute in a variety of dishes. Try sprinkling it on popcorn or roasted vegetables for a cheesy flavor, or using it as a base for a creamy and satisfying vegan cheese sauce.
But the key to incorporating unexpected vegetarian ingredients into your meals is to think outside the box. Don’t limit yourself to just these three ingredients, as there are countless other options that can add depth and complexity to your vegetarian dishes. For example, roasted beets can add a sweet and earthy flavor to your salads, while roasted cauliflower can add a smoky and nutty flavor to your stir-fries.
Another great way to add depth to your vegetarian meals is to experiment with different spices and seasonings. Spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and turmeric can add a warm and smoky flavor to your dishes, while fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage can add a fresh and bright flavor. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations of spices and herbs to find the perfect flavor profile for your vegetarian dishes.
So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create either vegetarian (or less meat focused meals) that are just as delicious as their meat-based counterparts. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
