Vegetarian sandwiches are delicious, guilt-free masterpieces that are as filling as their meaty counterparts once done right. Best of all, they allow a lot of creativity, and some of the tastiest recipes can be derived from the simplest ingredients. Added to this, the constant addition of new food items and their variations to the grocery shelves make it easy for newcomers to be just as satisfied as veterans, allowing the transition to be pain free. Many will also be happy to know that these points/benefits are not merely limited to sandwiches.
Basic Ingredients You Will Need:
There are some basic ingredients to always have on hand whether you a veteran or just adopting a vegetarian diet. In fact, these basics can be mixed and matched to create a world of possibilities. Plus, they tend to form the base of most sandwich recipes you will find. These are:
- Bread and wraps of your choice (the more variety, the better)
- Hummus, sandwich spreads, and sauces you like (you can even find recipes for homemade versions)
- Seasonal veggies (since these tend to be more affordable)
- Tofu, seitan, or tempeh
- Peas, beans, and sprouts of all kinds (these can help make sandwiches tastier and more filling)
- Cashew and other vegan cheeses
3 Things to Remember:
Switching or sticking to a vegan diet has many pluses. It also has some drawbacks if it is not done properly. As you enjoy your creations, it is important to remember the following three things.
1) Vegan does not automatically mean healthy
Far too many people fall into this trap. Some process foods are technically vegan, but are chock-full of things you should try to avoid no matter your diet. Additionally, the calorie content can be a major disadvantage. The key is to be a conscious consumer, so always investigate before you buy. You can also aim for fresh, home-made alternatives as often as your life allows.
2) Be mindful of allergies
A lot of what you come across may contain nuts and other ingredients that could trigger allergies. With that said, become informed and read labels carefully. Newbies are also encouraged to understand alternative names for ingredients with multiple names.
3) Vegan does not mean sacrificing taste
Every happy vegan understands the value of great hummus or other spreads, tasty vegetables, and the long list of other possible fillings. Add fresh ingredients to the list, and you quickly realize that there is absolutely no need to give up great tasting foods. That is really all it takes, and a good sandwich is proof of this.
As you explore all the vegetarian sandwiches out there, remember to save your favorite recipes. It is also recommended that you look for economical ways to enjoy the ones that are costly, especially when eating out. Lastly, do not forget to share what you find with your friends, vegans and meat lovers alike. You never know who you could inspire to change their eating habits or who has tasty options of their own to share with you!