While there are several science-backed benefits of eating vegan that range from decreased risk of heart disease to improved overall health and everything in between, not everyone genuinely wants to part with meat products. Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice your weekly bacon breakfast to benefit from some vegan diet benefits. Instead of switching up your diet to exclude all meat products, you can reduce your meat consumption and include these tasty vegan ingredients into your eating plan instead.
The following vegan ingredients are often used as meat substitutes and alternatives. Therefore, eating vegan only a few times a week will be enough to transform your overall health while also adding decadent variance to your diet.
Soy Products
Soybean protein is exceptionally healthy as a top-rated meat substitute for various vegan recipes. Soy products are a staple ingredient in every vegan’s pantry, and keeping a stock of this ingredient will offer you several significant health benefits. As soybeans are high in protein, contain a rich source of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, soybeans should be a regular ingredient everyone uses.
Tofu
Tofu is one of the more popular vegan ingredients out there. The meat alternative is made from soy milk curd. When it comes to finding tofu recipes to reap the benefits mentioned above of soy products, you won’t be hard-pressed for choice as there are countless ways to enjoy tofu, from deep-fried to pan-fried and boiled tofu recipes. What’s more, tofu is not restricted to savory dishes as a meat alternative as there are also several decadent ways to enjoy tofu as mouth-watering desserts. The versatility of tofu is what makes it such an essential staple in vegan eating plans.
Seitan
Seitan is a meat substitute that is derived from wheat gluten, which is the protein in gluten. Water and wheat flour are added, and starch is removed to create the alternative protein source. While seitan is quite dense and flavorless on its own, this makes the ingredient perfectly versatile for various recipes. Because seitan is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and a great source of iron, including this meat substitute into your diet will provide you with several health benefits.
Mushrooms
You probably already enjoy tasty mushroom dishes, although there is no doubt that you never considered mushrooms to be capable of replacing meat products. However, because mushrooms are a great source of fiber, you can replace meat with mushroom dishes from time to time. The best part about replacing meat with mushrooms is that mushrooms contain a rich, savory flavor that will restrict any meat cravings. You can slice, dice, or enjoy them whole in various recipes for flavorful meals.
When it comes to switching up your eating plan for a healthier lifestyle, it is vital to focus on replacing unhealthy ingredients with significantly healthier alternatives. The list of health benefits that will impact and improve your quality of life while enjoying more variance in your meals is always a great idea.
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