Often times, when people find out I’m a vegetarian, they look at me sadly like they just found out I have a terminal illness. Funny thing is that I choose to be a vegetarian. And many other people do too! Now, the transition into being a vegetarian isn’t always so heartfelt and easy. There are tons of books out there with the purpose of instructing one on how to be a vegetarian. This is going to be a much simpler guide. I’m not telling everyone to be a vegetarian, I’m just showing you how to in case you were ever curious–how to get enough nutrients in a plant-based diet. Sometimes people turn into starch-atarians when they go veggie, but fear not–there is plenty of protein when you come this way!
1. Tofu for meat. Well, that was simple. A lot of people say they don’t like tofu. While I understand that, there are so many ways to cook tofu to hide the flavor or texture (if that is what bothers you). Tofu boasts an impressive 10g of protein per half cup. That’s not too far off from a half cup of chicken or other meat–solid protein gains! There are tons of ways to cook it and make that protein edible for you, like Tofu Paid Thai, Tofu Scramble, Biscuits, Tofu and Gravy, and Getting Creative with Tofu!
2. Eat protein-rich veggies. Tofu and eggs aren’t the only source for protein for us vegetarians! There are many other ways to consume it in your daily diet. My big one is mushrooms! Growing up, mushrooms made me want to hurl, but now I can’t get enough of these protein-y fungi. Other great protein-rich veggies include peas, soybean (edamame), and brussel sprouts! Sounds like we’re putting a meal together here…
Get dem veggies!
3. Drink Silk Soymilk as your beverage. If you haven’t had enough in this protein-filled meal, why not drink some more? Some people may be skeptical of soy milk regarding its flavor and protein content. I’ll tell you firsthand, that Silk knocks it out of the park in both areas! Silk Soymilk boast an awesome 8g of protein per cup! There are many different flavors of Silk Soymilk including their Original, Chocolate and Vanilla (and many more). In fact, if you want to try the flavors out, I have coupon for you here. Visit their site, check out the flavors and nutritional content and try a soymilk! This completes a meal that will surely help you bloom.
Is becoming a vegetarian a little less scary now? Those who fear not getting your full protein count will have no fear if they use the tools above! This also applies for non-vegetarians who are looking for a good source of protein also low in saturated fats. Remember to teach yourself to enjoy all of these things. Silk makes it easy with delicious flavors (don’t forget to get your coupon!), and if you use certain spices like garlic and yeast flakes for tofu–you’ll just be in flavor heaven. And as always, stay hungry and fit!
This conversation is sponsored by Silk. The opinions and text are all mine.
WOOHOO!! Vegetarians unite!
Yes!!!
Cool. Didn’t realize you were a veggie also 🙂
Yep!!
Back in college I tried being vegetarian for a week and I definitely turned into a starch-itarian. I definitely wouldn’t let that happen again!
I consider myself a quasi-vegetarian: I eat all grains and vegetables for my first two meals (and snacks) but do eat meat at dinnertime. I make sure i get my protein from a variety of beans and nuts.
However, if anyone else is like me, with an under active thyroid, they CAN NOT consume soy products. The soy mimics the effects of the thyroid medication and can throw our levels waaaay off. Soy also mimics estrogen, so women who are on hormone therapy or menopausal need to careful, too. Just an FYI. (P.S. Not a doctor, so check with your physician, as always, for your own specific needs).