Essential's Easy Vegan Swaps for Veganuary 2024
04/01/2024
By Lee Nottle
Veganuary is here once again! It is so inspiring to witness the positive impact Veganuary has on people's health, the environment, and animal welfare, and at Essential, we love watching the movement grow and become more successful with each passing year.
Why Veganuary?
It is difficult to ignore everything that is currently going on in the world around us. The increasingly volatile weather as a result of climate change, as well as deforestation, destructive farming practices, and poor animal welfare, are just a few reasons why many people in the UK have adopted a vegan or plant-based diet.
The ethical implications of factory farming and the inhumane treatment of animals have also played a significant role in driving the vegan movement. As more documentaries and investigations shed light on the cruel conditions that animals endure in industrialised farming, people are increasingly motivated to make compassionate choices and support a plant-based lifestyle. This growing awareness has led to a surge in vegan alternatives, innovative plant-based products, and an overall shift towards sustainable and cruelty-free practices.
Is switching to a vegan or plant-based lifestyle easy?
Transitioning to a vegan or plant-based diet can be daunting for some, especially when it comes to finding affordable and accessible ingredients. That’s why we have created a little list of some easy vegan swaps to help you on your vegan journey. Whether you're looking to try veganism for the first time or just want to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, these swaps are a great place to start. From swapping dairy milk for oat milk to using tofu instead of meat in your favourite recipes, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious alternatives to explore. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with new flavours and ingredients - you might just discover some new favourite dishes along the way!
Discover Plant-Based Milk
When it comes to alternatives to dairy milk, there is no shortage of options available. Some popular alternatives include oat milk, almond milk, soya milk, hazelnut milk and coconut milk. You can also find alternatives such as pea, cashew, spelt, hemp, rice, tiger nut and even potato milk! All of these non-dairy milks are often fortified with vitamins and minerals to provide similar nutritional benefits as dairy milk. Additionally, they offer different flavours allowing you to find a suitable alternative that fits your taste preferences. Some plant-based alternatives to dairy milk, like almond milk and oat milk, have a naturally sweet taste, while others, such as coconut milk, have a creamier texture. These alternatives are often lower in calories and saturated fat compared to dairy milk, making them a much healthier choice! Some favourites at Essential include Minor Figures Oat Milk and Sojade Soya Milk.
Discover Plant-Based Cheese
A common question asked during Veganuary is, “How will I be able to go without cheese?!” For many people, cheese is a staple in their diet, and the thought of giving it up can be daunting. There are plenty of delicious alternatives available however that can satisfy your cravings and provide similar flavours and textures. Additionally, exploring new recipes and experimenting with different ingredients can open up a whole world of dairy-free options that you may have never considered before. Whether you’re looking for a crumbly artisanal cheese to pair with olives on your cheeseboard or a big block of hard cheddar to add to a pasta dish, there are a great deal of options available. With so many choices, you can explore different types of cheese and discover new favourites to elevate your culinary creations. I Am Nut OK has an exceptional range of vegan cheeses that will satisfy any cheesy cravings, and Violife’s Epic Mature cheese is one we recommend having in your fridge at all times.
Discover Plant-Based Butter and Spreads
Whether it's for spreading on toast or baking up perfect flaky pastries, navigating the world of plant-based butters and spreads can be difficult for some. There are plenty of options to choose from, however, depending on what you are looking for. One of Essential's top sellers is Naturli Vegan Block, which is popular with bakers and in homes up and down the UK. Vegan Block is known for its vesatility, making it a great choice for both spreading and baking. Its plant-based ingredients provide a delicious alternative to traditional butter, making it a popular choice among those following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle. Naturli also offers a vegan spread, which is perfect for spreading on toast, crumpets, and in sandwiches. Other favourites include Biona's range of vegan spreads (Sunflower and Olive) as well as Suma's Sunflower Spread.
Discover Plant-Based Mayo
Uplift your burgers, sandwiches, and wraps with some of the best vegan mayos around. We have a wide selection of vegan mayos that are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from any animal products. Our vegan mayos are not only delicious, but they are also incredibly creamy, making them the perfect substitute for some of your favourite dishes. Whether you're looking for a classic mayo flavour or something with a unique twist, we have the ideal plant-based mayo for you. Some of our favourites include the BeSaucy range, which comes in a variety of flavours such as Garlic, Black Truffle, Basil, Smoked Chipotle, and Dill & Gherkin. Rubies in the Rubble is another favourite of others, with offerings of their Classic, Garlic, and Chilli mayos. These vegan mayos add a burst of flavour to any dish and are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Discover Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
There are so many vegan meat alternatives available at the moment, and the number of alternatives is seemingly always increasing! From plant-based burgers to faux chicken pieces, the variety of vegan meat alternatives caters to different tastes and dietary preferences. As more people embrace a vegan lifestyle or simply seek healthier options, food companies continue to innovate and introduce new products to meet the growing demand.
It's important to note that not all vegan meat alternatives are created equal in terms of nutritional value. While they can be a great option for those looking to reduce their meat consumption, it's still essential to read the ingredient labels and choose options that are minimally processed and made from whole foods. Additionally, incorporating a variety of plant-based proteins, such as beans, pulses, nuts, and seeds, into your diet can ensure you're getting a well-rounded source of nutrients. Jackfruit is a great alternative that can be used in a variety of meals, such as vegan pulled pork and hoisin shredded duck-style dishes. In addition to jackfruit, tofu, tempeh, and homemade seitan are also popular vegan meat alternatives that can be used in many dishes. These options provide a good source of protein and can be a tasty addition to your meals.
Seitan is a great way to experiment with your dishes and a cost-effective way of incorporating plant-based proteins into your diet. It is made from wheat gluten and has a meat-like texture, making it a versatile ingredient for dishes like stir-fries, sandwiches, burgers, sausages, and even vegan steaks! Adding these plant-based protein options to your meals not only helps you meet your nutritional needs but also adds variety and flavour to your diet.
Still looking for more inspiration?
We have a fantastic collection of recipes on our website that are guaranteed to liven up your meals. From mouthwatering mains to delectable desserts, our diverse range of recipes caters to every palate. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, our step-by-step instructions and helpful tips ensure that each dish is a culinary success. We have recipes ranging from Tofu Tikka Masala to Banana and Dark Chocolate Swirl Muffins and Greek-Style Setian Gyros to Vegan Haggis just in time for Burns Night, all of which can help make your transition to plant-based eating an easier process.