Creating sensational meat-free meals

Tofu jokes aside, I get lots of questions from friends and family about how a meal without meat actually works.

Family member: So, it's like meat and two veg....but without the meat?

Me: I don't just eat sides... there are actually ways to make plant-based meals! Noodle dishes, stir fries, curries...

Family member: So like.... tofu steaks?

Sigh. It can be hard at first reconceptualising the idea of a meal that isn't centred around a piece of meat, so here's a list of tips and recipes to get to thinking (and eating!).

Pantry staples

Although following a recipe is a good idea when starting out, it's usually wise to have a few bits and pieces at home already that can easily become an impromptu meal.

Here's what I typically have in my cupboard:

Grains: rice (brown or white), pasta, rice noodles

Beans and legumes: red kidney beans, lentils, cannellini beans, black beans

Proteins and dairy: tofu, eggs, soy milk, yogurt, cheese (vegans will have to substitute animal by-products)

Vegetables: potato, sweet potato, zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, onions, shallots, capsicum

Oils: butter, olive oil, peanut oil, coconut oil

Sauces and spices: balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, honey (vegans substitute with alternative), cinnamon, paprika, cumin

Other: nuts, fruit, sourdough bread, chocolate

Veggie burgers (with patties made from lentils, quinoa or beans)

Noodles with tofu (make your very own Pad Thai at home!)

Fresh salads like this incredible version with kale

Potato cakes inspired by samosas!

Baked potatoes topped with balsamic onions

Vegetable stir fry or laksa

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We're pledging to eat #LessMeatMoreBeans to slow emissions from meat production. Are you with us?!