After 26 or more years as a vegetarian I made the switch to Vegan about a month ago. The only problem I have run into is eating out. I live in a small ranching community, being a vegetarian was difficult here but being a Vegan is a true challenge.
I have found some great cookbooks though. Vegan Planet is one that I really like.
Any suggestions on making the transition?
Thanks.
I have found that most restaurants will try to accommodate you because they want your business. However, depending on your motives for becoming Vegan this can present a few interesting situations. Veganism is a principled lifestyle for most of the folks I know who are vegan. They wouldn't even dream of supporting a restaurant that contributes to factory farming. Such as fast food restaurants or steak houses. But, when I go out with friends I will generally overlook this because I don't need to make a scene. But, my fiancee and I go to places that cater to vegetarians and vegans when we can.
If you enjoy cooking, this is your best bet. And believe me, there is all sorts of stuff to eat. Vital wheat gluten and carne de soy are all suitable meatlike substitutes. We had tacos last night and we're having spaghetti tonight.
Get a copy of the Veganomicon. Everything we have tried out of this cookbook has been really tasty.
Eating out is definitely the hardest part about being vegan. My suggestion is to think of it this way - most people only eat so many foods anyway (we tend to have small palates), so pick a handful of places you know have vegan options and then you won't be stuck wringing your hands over where to go for lunch or dinner.
For example, I always get the 7 layer burrito with no cheese or sour cream at Taco Bell, their fresco options also take away all the dairy products they use as well. You favorite chinese place will have steamed veggies and rice or tofu lomein or certainly one or two vegan options. You get the picture..
For some reason, knowing a number of dishes and restaurants you can go to and be vegan makes it much easier because there's no long debate over where to go.. just do some research online - almost all fast food restaurants have their menus posted on their websites - and then you'll be set the next time some says, 'Let's do lunch!'
After 26 or more years as a vegetarian I made the switch to Vegan about a month ago. The only problem I have run into is eating out. I live in a small ranching community, being a vegetarian was difficult here but being a Vegan is a true challenge.
I have found some great cookbooks though. Vegan Planet is one that I really like.
