I’ve never liked the idea that animals need to die just so that I can fill my stomach. I’m glad that I didn’t live during pioneer times because I’d probably starve to death before I could force myself to kill a chicken. Friends scoff “If you’re hungry enough, you’d find out very quickly that you could”. Fortunately I’ve never been that hungry but I still don’t believe that I could do it. I have a twinge of conscience, when eating anything (such as a drumstick) that obviously came from a living creature. Lately I seem to have been bombarded with articles hyping the health benefits of meatless dieting; simultaneously I’ve read other articles that outline, in excruciating detail, some of the barbaric and tortuous ways that animals are slaughtered in this country. I became aware that my beliefs were coming to a head, and were reinforcing my opinions about both the benefits of a meatless diet, and my abhorrence of how and why animals are killed for food. I realized that maybe it was time to put my mouth where my meat wasn’t!
Many recipes exist that don’t include meat; I needed to figure out which ones worked for me. I’m just starting on this journey so I’m taking baby steps; I’m not trying to follow a meatless diet 100% of the time. My reading brought me to the inescapable conclusion that red meat does nothing good for me and is a major contributor to heart disease. So, red meat is out the door. White meats such as chicken and pork are not considered to be quite as bad as red meat but I’m trying to eliminate them from my diet as well. However, I can eat fish, seafood and dairy. Shrimp is one of my favorite foods; I could happily have it on my table 3 times a week. Salmon is my fish of choice and due to its nutritional value of omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, is recommended to be eaten a minimum of two times a week. Both those dishes partner well with asparagus, sweet potatoes, and green salads. White wine is supposed to pair well with fish but red wine has lots of antioxidants! It’s not written in stone, have the wine you most enjoy! Lucky for me that 2 of my favorite dishes are good for me! Between the shrimp and salmon I’ve already planned at least 5 meals for the week. What could I make for the remaining 2 days? What about tofu? I’d heard about it but had never been tempted to try it. My first venture into that arena was to cook a meatless chili made with tofu. The tofu didn’t brown which gave the chili an odd appearance but I have to admit that it was really tasty! My next adventure was to buy prepared veggie burgers. Another food I’d heard about but had never had a reason to try until now. Surprise, surprise, I actually liked it! That gave me my 7th meal to add to the weekly menu!
Now that I’m following this new regime I’ve rediscovered soups and salads. A tuna salad entree with sides of new potatoes, red tomatoes, green bell peppers, hard boiled eggs, fresh green beans and cantaloupe is a wonderful and refreshing meal. Tomato, bean, and split pea soups are full of protein and antioxidants, add grilled cheese sandwiches and you have a very filling meal. Egg dishes are additional delicious entrees that I’d never considered having for dinner in the past. Quiche and egg salad accompanied with fresh fruit are two simple and tasty additions to the menu.
By following this diet, I know that I’m contributing to the health of my body, and at the same time following my conscience. Since I’m not eating meat, I’m not condoning the inhumane treatment of animals. That makes this a positive and meaningful way of life for me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed trying all these recipes. If I so desired I could follow my new diet plan with just the ones I’ve mentioned, but I don’t want to stop here! I’m having too much fun trying all these different recipes and am looking forward to new adventures with plant based meals in the future!