Veganuary: How to get started

So you’ve probably heard of Veganuary by now, and may have decided to join the 440,000 other people that have already signed up to the 31-day vegan challenge. However, when first starting out veganism can be a little overwhelming (is there anything that doesn’t contain egg, meat or dairy that has more taste than a lettuce leaf?), which is why we have put together some helpful tips to make your plant-based journey somewhat easier.

Adapt your favourite dishes

Going vegan doesn’t mean you have to throw out all the recipes you know and love and start from scratch. If Bolognese is your favourite comfort dish, then simply swap out the meat mince for lentils or soy mince. If you love a sausage sandwich on a Sunday morning, you don’t have to give them up – just try a vegan alternative instead. There really are very few dishes these days that you won’t be able to adapt or find a vegan alternative for.

Experiment with alternatives

As with any food, you are not going to like every vegan food you try. There are so many alternatives available; it’s likely you may need to experiment with a few until you find your favourites. For example, with the likes of oat, soya, almond, cashew and so many other options available as a replacement for milk, you will probably need to try a few to find you go to – in the same way you may not like every coffee brand you try, it doesn’t mean you have to give up coffee completely.

Accidentally vegan foods

Some of your favourite foods may already be vegan! Marmite and Oreos to name a few, many crisps, biscuits and snacks are already vegan without trying to be. Always check the label though, as just ingredients can differ from brand to brand.

Plan ahead

Planning is key for getting started with Veganuary, from planning your weekly meals to keeping vegan snacks in your bag or car. If you don’t get caught short, you’re far less likely to fall of the wagon! Write a shopping list of everything you need, keeping in mind those vegan alternatives for your favourite meals.

Most importantly, be kind to yourself

Accidentally eating non-vegan food, not wanting to decline a non-vegan meal someone has cooked for you, or simply giving in to temptation. No one is perfect, and the most important thing is you are giving Veganism a go this January!