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Vegetarian Resource Page

Vegetarian/vegan food and lifestyle options are more readily available than ever before, thanks in part to the Internet. Here are a few suggestions to help you find what you need.

Food

Obviously, food is the major defining characteristic of vegetarian life. Most supermarkets in urban and suburban areas carry vegetarian and vegan specialty foods. Here are some suggestions on where to buy hard-to-find items online.

Vegetarian Meat

It's easier than ever to make the switch to meat-free eating, especially with the help of the many delicious meat substitutes available. Generally made from a combination of soy protein, wheat protein, and vegetables, these foods are so tasty that even carnivores will ask for seconds!

  • Praise Seitan 
    • Seitan  is similar to TVP but not dehydrated.
    • Most packages of seitan are available in some kind of marinade.
    • Some styles are made to resemble chicken  and are excellent in stir-fry.
    • Seitan is excellent for low-carb diets - it is almost entirely protein and fiber!
  • Also Available

Ethnic Vegetarian Cuisine

Don't worry, for vegetarians who prefer natural cooking to meat substitutes, there are lots of options for you as well! Indian, Ethiopian and Thai food all offer meatless dishes with tons of flavor!

  • Indian : The majority of India is vegetarian, so authentic Indian food is an easy way to eat out (or in!). Palak Paneer  is a mixture of spinach and Indian cheese mixed together and can be found at any Indian restaurant and packaged in most grocery stores. Kaali Daal, Chole and Rajma are also tasty options. Find recipes on how to make them at About.com.
  • Ethiopian: Ethiopian restaurants are a fun change of pace for a night out. Food is served communally on a large serving dish. Under the dollops of food will be a large piece of bread, injera.  This bread is used to scoop the food from the dish in true Ethiopian style. Gomen is a great starter starter dish, made of collard greens  and spices. 
  • Thai: Thai food is great for the spice-enthusiast. If you prefer less spicy in your food, try pad-Thai, a peanut based vegetarian dish. Pad-Thai  is probably the most popular Thai dish around so it's easy to find anywhere. 

Cheese Alternatives for Vegans

Trying to reduce the dairy in your life? Miss that good old mac 'n' cheese from the box? Check out some of these sauces, mac 'n' cheese alternatives, and other foods made with nutritional yeast, a popular substitute that makes great creamy sauces.

  • Nutritional Yeast
    • Nutritional yeast is your friend. It is healthy and makes delicious creamy sauces. Try it mixed with a little melted margarine or olive oil and a pinch of salt -great on pasta, veggies or chik'n cutlets.
    • Look for Red Star  brand: in addition to the handy shaker top, their yeast is fortified with vitamins that can be low in a vegan diet.
  • Ready-made foods with nutritional yeast are also available.

Clothing

There are lots of options available for animal-friendly gear! From your shoes to your hat, synthetic products can keep you comfortable and stylish all year long!

Vegan Shoe Brands

Vegetarian Shoes - Many Shapes and Styles!

Stylish red shoes from TUK. 

Comfy-looking Earth Shoes. 

Cute little sandals from Dansko 

(Note: Not all brands listed are strictly vegan; some are, such as the obviously-named Vegan wares. Others, such as Birkenstock, offer both vegan and non-vegan shoes.)

Related Buying Guides

  • Vegetarian Meat: Learn about all the different types of vegetarian meat substitutes available.
  • Vegetarian Christmas: For the perfect meatless Christmas party!
  • Food: Ideas for all types of recipes and resources can be found here.
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