Are you a meat lover looking to eat a bit healthier? Or perhaps you're trying to reduce your meat consumption, but you're not too enthusiastic about the typical 'rabbit food' vegetarian dishes? No worries! We have compiled the best 5 plant-based recipes that will make any meat-eater drool. These recipes are not only healthy and good for the planet, but they also don't compromise on taste!
Hearty lentil Bolognese
Our first recipe is a hearty lentil Bolognese. Lentils are packed with protein and can mimic the texture of ground beef when cooked properly. You'll need:
- 1 cup of dried lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- Vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta of your choice
Sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic until they're soft. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, and enough vegetable broth to cover everything. Let it simmer until the lentils are tender and the sauce is thick and hearty. Serve over pasta and enjoy a classic Italian dish - without the meat!
Smoky BBQ Pulled Jackfruit
Next on the menu is smoky BBQ pulled jackfruit. Jackfruit has a meaty texture and absorbs flavors beautifully. The ingredients are:
- 2 cans of young green jackfruit in brine
- 1 bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Burger buns
Drain and rinse the jackfruit, then cook it with the onion and garlic until they're soft. Add the BBQ sauce and simmer until the jackfruit is tender and has absorbed the sauce. Serve on burger buns for a vegetarian twist on a BBQ classic.
Mushroom and Black Bean Tacos
For a Mexican treat, try these mushroom and black bean tacos. Mushrooms give a meaty flavor and texture, while black beans provide plenty of protein. You'll need:
- 1 lb of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Taco shells
- Your favorite taco toppings
Cook the mushrooms, onion, and garlic until they're soft. Add the black beans and cook until they're heated through. Serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings.
Chickpea 'Chicken' Salad
This chickpea 'chicken' salad is a light yet satisfying dish that tastes remarkably similar to the real thing. Here's what you need:
- 1 can of chickpeas
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- Vegan mayo
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread or lettuce wraps
Mash the chickpeas until they're chunky, then mix in the celery, onion, mayo, salt, and pepper. Serve on bread or in lettuce wraps for a light lunch.
Beyond Burger
For a real meaty taste and texture, try a Beyond Burger. These plant-based burgers taste, cook, and even 'bleed' like real meat. They're available in most supermarkets and can be cooked just like a traditional beef burger.
Eating plant-based meals doesn't mean you have to miss out on delicious, hearty food. These recipes should give any meat lover plenty of ideas for satisfying, meat-free meals.
