Whether you’re a hardcore vegan or a freewheeling flexitarian, plant-based diets are bigger than ever before. While switching to a new diet is difficult enough, it can also raise some tricky social dilemmas.
From enjoying dinner parties to eating out, accredited nutritionist and Mt Elephant brand partner Jacqueline Alwill explains how to handle any sticky situation with ease.
How can I navigate dinner parties?
“Most people are fairly understanding these days of different dietary preferences,” Alwill says. “However, if you’re concerned you may be left with a leafy green salad and mash, then I believe it’s always just nice to offer to bring a plate of something.”
She adds, “You don’t need to apologise for your [plant-based] choice, feel like an inconvenience (all too common) or make something out of it, just think through the solution before you have the conversation.”
What about festive occasions?
Once again, Alwill says the key is to bring a plate.
“Generally it’s something most of us do anyway, you’ll just make it with your plant-based twist!” she says.
In addition, Alwill suggests remembering “there’s a fine line between telling people about your new lifestyle and becoming the plant-based Grinch”.
“Undoubtedly people will ask you about your shift to plant-based, and that’s fine, it may not be their choice though,” Alwill adds. “Remember you’re not there to convert people to be plant-based on festive occasions, you’re there to enjoy yourself and let them do same.”
What if I’m cooking for meat eaters?
If you’re cooking for a blended household or have a meat eater coming around for dinner, a good option can be to serve a combo of meat-based meals with some plant-based alternatives that resemble the real thing. Try these simple ideas:
- Beef burger or a delicious brown rice and bean burger with all the (plant-based) trimmings.
- Tuna wrap/sandwich or mashed chickpea and mayonnaise “tuna” with plenty of leafy greens.
- Traditional pancakes with egg or a quick and easy Mt Elephant Almond Buckwheat Pancake Mix topped with your favourite berries and Mt Elephant Hemp & Oak Milk.
It’s easy being green
Follow Alwill’s tricks to mastering the menu
- Hunt down great restaurants and cafes renowned for their veg-based dishes.
- Ask for a simple swap with your meal. For instance, you could say, “Rather than the chicken or steak on the salad, do you have a substantial veg option you can pop on there instead?” This is only a small tweak for a busy kitchen.
- Suggest getting shared plates of plant-based meals with your friends. This offers variety not only to you but to others at the table.
- Entrées can offer more plant-based options so consider ordering two entrées for your main if it works better for you.
- Prepare to be flexible and open.
Balance is key
If you’re going vego, it’s a good idea to see a nutritionist or dietitian to make sure you’re eating a rounded diet.
“Ensure there’s plenty of variety in your day,” Alwilll advises. “Crowd your plate with a diverse range of ingredients [like] fruits, veg, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and wholegrains.”
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