“I’ll never give up meat” is an unsolicited affirmation I occasionally get from someone who learns that I’m vegan. “I’m not asking you to give up meat. But since we’re on the subject, how about just expanding your idea of what “meat” in the 21st century is? Must it come from the corpse of a diseased and terrified animal? No, of course not. Replace animal flesh with nutritious and satisfying plant-based meats and proteins. There are new brands cropping up all the time. Try brands like Upton Naturals, Field Roast, Gardein, Beyond Meat. Find one or two you like and replace it in your favorite recipes calling for animal-based meat. Done. Are they exactly like animal flesh? Some are, disturbingly so. And when you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, discover age-old plant proteins and make burgers and patties and “steaks” from legumes like chick peas, lentils and black beans, tofu and protein-rich grains. Recipes abound. Remember, your current tastes were formed from childhood and habit. You can easily create new habits. Your palate will adjust, if you give it a chance, and you will form new habits that are equally satisfying, healthier and more humane. In the end, the only thing you will be giving up is your support of animal cruelty.”
Posted on: Wed, 17 Jul 2013 12:17:17 +0000