On this special day, World Vegan Day (1 November) we celebrate all the benefits of switching to a plant-based diet, but what does it mean to be a vegan? Being vegan means that you are on a plant-based diet and do not eat or use animal products.
‘I always enjoy seeing people’s reactions when I explain to them that there are more than 20 000 edible plants on planet earth. Once people discover the amazing variety and abundance of plant-based eating, it’s a lot easier to get into a plant-based lifestyle – and enjoy it,’ says Cape Town dietitian Jessica Kotlowitz, also known as The Green Dietitian.
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Here are some tips on what to order at a restaurant when you are on a plant-based diet:
1. For breakfast
Forget the traditional breakfast of bacon and eggs – there are loads of breakfast options that don’t include eggs and meat. Avocado is always a winner – try it on rye toast with grilled mushrooms and tomatoes. Don’t feel like bread? Get the most out of your breakfast with a fresh fruit salad with muesli and nuts or delicious hot oats.
2. For brunch or a light lunch at a coffee shop or bistro
A coffee shop or bistro is always great for brunch or a quick lunch. Try ordering a healthy salad or, if you are feeling like something slightly more filling, try ordering it with a slice of rye bread on the side. If you’re after a warm meal, order a delicious vegetable soup. If you’re having a coffee with friends, try your coffee with a milk alternative like almond milk.
3. A burger on the go
Don’t think of a vegetable burger as bland – you might be surprised how delicious a ‘veggie’ burger can be. Choose a vegetable- or bean-based burger patty with vegetables as toppings. Skip sauces like mayonnaise or other cream-based sauces and rather order pesto or hummus if they are available. They are healthier and taste just as delicious as creamy sauces.
4. Asian and curry dishes for dinner
You can’t go wrong with a vegetable curry! There are usually vegetable-curry options available at Indian restaurants. Feel like a good Asian dish? Instead of ordering egg noodles, try a vegetable stir-fry with rice or rice noodles.
5. Italian comfort food
Instead of ordering a pizza, order focaccia. Similar to pizza, focaccia is a flat oven-baked Italian bread. Choose toppings such as vegetables, garlic or herbs to add some flavour to your dish. If you feel like something other than bread, order some pasta. Instead of ordering creamy sauces with cheese, order a tomato-based pasta sauce.
Looking for a vegan spread for your breads? Flora has a great new vegan spread that is 100% plant-based! Flora Vegan 60% Fat Spread is suitable for vegans, strict vegetarians and those who are lactose intolerant, as it contains no dairy. It’s high in omega 3 and 6, which are good for heart health.
For more information about Flora and for great recipes using Flora, visit www.florastrongheart.co.za.
Cover photo: iStock/Milkos
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