Over the past several years there’s been an increase in the vegan lifestyle. Personally, I’m a big fan of my veggies. There’s so many different approaches you can take with recipes in creating that special dish that just screams yummm! I’m not sure what the controversy is but Vegan spells flavor just as much as meat does in so many different ways.
The one thing I enjoy about vegan dishes is that most vegetables take on the flavor of the spices used to create them and therefore it can be challenging detecting what veggie you might be eating. And, of course this greatly depends on what veggies are being used. I think one of my favorites is the mushroom as it can stand up to any spice and still taste like a mushroom. Then, there are times when it can appear as meat ie, when using portobello mushrooms and mixing with earthy spices such as cumin, turmeric, nutmeg, allspice and ginger the mushroom transforms into what taste like a piece of meat due to the texture and the spices being used. I do this when I want a low caloric but flavor packed wrap that’s going to be fulfilling to my pallet.
On the other hand, there is that thing called meat. No, I’m not vegan but I truly enjoy having a balanced diet. I don’t have to have meat several times a day to enjoy my meals but I do enjoy the flavor and texture of meat. I grew up eating meat, fish and produce, which was very balanced for the most part that I remember. So my point is what is the great controversy? Why does it even matter whether you eat meat or you’re vegan. Does it make you a bad person because you’re vegan or because you’re not? Why not promote the balance within and learn to take a healthy approach to what ever meals we consume? I would like to think that most of us enjoy both, and then there are some people who are strictly meat and potato eaters that desire no vegetables at all. So, as you can see here is an entirely different side to the picture.
I definitely see both sides and can imagine that some people have to make a lifestyle change due to health reasons, and some just prefer that change. I’ve also come to the conclusion that being vegan isn’t necessarily healthier because the absence of animal fat but can be just as fatty as any other dish due to its preparation.
So on that note, I think I’ll be heading to the stove to make my family some delicious Shrimp Taco’s drizzled with a Cilantro Chipotle Lime sauce. Needless to say; they will want an array of fresh toppings such as shredded cabbage, onions, fresh salsa, pico de gallo, chili rojo, avocado, lime slices, queso fresco cheese, jalapenos just to name a few. Can you tell we take taco night around here very seriously! Bon Appetit.
What are your thoughts on this topic and why would you think one way is better than the other. I’d love to hear from you as food for thought is always welcomed.
