So you’re interested in plant-based cooking, but don’t know where to start? I totally feel you! When I first started my journey over a year ago, I seriously had no idea what I was doing. Now that I am confident in my cooking skills and variety of food that I can make, here are some tips that I learned along the way that really helped me transition within 1 month.

Firstly, it is important to note that everyone’s journey is different. Some people can go cold turkey and some people need to wean off some products slowly. Both are fine! Even if you’re just looking to reduce your impact, I am here for you.

1. Do your research and find your ‘why’

Why are you interested in this lifestyle? What is your motivation? Not here for the cruelty that goes on behind the scenes? Worried about climate change? Want more variety in your food? It is important to know you ‘why’ because this is what makes a habit stick. When your ‘why’ is strong enough, your drive to change your life in a drastic way is completely justifiable. For me, I learned about this lifestyle through suggested YouTube videos of cooking. This led me to do more research. As a result, I gained so much knowledge that living in ignorance didn’t sit well with me.

2. Find ‘accidentally vegan’ products

Potato chips, dark chocolate, raspberry twists… SHAPES! Find the foods you eat normally and see if they’re vegan! I love learning about ‘accidentally’ vegan items. With so many new products coming out that cater for vegans, there is really an abundance of things suitable to your values. Milk is usually a sneaky ingredient, but is usually bolded in the ingredients list so it only takes a quick scan.

3. Focus on meals with whole foods

Now what do I mean by this? I mean cooking meals that emphasises on the natural flavours of plant foods. Often times people suggest to transition with mock meats, which is perfectly fine. However, I have grown an appreciation of the natural flavours that come from things like sweet potatoes, bok choy, beans and more. The first vegan meal I purposely made was a chickpea curry. To this day, it is still a huge staple because it is a meal that shines on its own. Another tip: learn how to flavour and prepare these foods in detail for ultimate deliciousness!

4. Stir fries and curries are your best friend

When in doubt, chuck it in a stir fry. Stir fried noodles are my go to on a weekly basis because they are just so satisfying to eat. Hokkien, udon, vermicelli and more! Plus there are so many flavour combinations to choose from. I have a Singapore Noodle recipe on my Instagram as well as a Hokkien Noodle recipe that taste unique from each other! With curries, there are just so many types! Indian, Thai… Malaysian? It’s up to you.

5. Stock up on vegan pantry staples

This will vary from person to person, but here are some things I always have that keep my food delicious and interesting:

Cashews for creamy sauces and dressings

Ground flax for making flax eggs, perfect for baking!

Maple syrup for sweetening up savoury dishes and for dressings

I would love to know any other tips you have that could help others! Transitioning into a new lifestyle is a process but completely worth it with all the new knowledge you gain. Thanks for reading!

Pez 🙂