A Little Introduction

I've been vegan for about 13 years. I learned how to cook for myself and since I also went to college during that time, I learned how to do it cheaply and deliciously. So, I am here to show you how it's possible, no matter what your budget or time constraint, to be a dedicated and healthy vegan.

We're lucky to live in this day and age - for all intents and purposes, it's WAY easier to be a vegan that it was 10 - 15 years ago. We're still a "fringe" group, sure, but we're heavily catered to, especially in countries like Canada and the USA. We have fake/substitute/analog everything, which exist in varying degrees of deliciousness. I like fake things, I like to support the companies that make them. I didn't become a vegan because I dislike the taste of meat; it was always about the animals. Still, occasionally a fake meat will come along that is just "too" good and it creeps me out. However, you shouldn't rely on them, because a lot of them are heavily modified/processed. I still eat them regularly, but they are not a daily, 3-meals-a-day thing anymore. But I digress.

I really encourage you to go out and find local ingredients! Hopefully they are cheap if they are local, I know it can be frustrating when they are not. Sometimes the local mega-supermarket will have cheaper versions, but I can almost guarantee you it will not be as fresh. Seek out Farmer's Markets, or the little produce store around the corner. Even if it's a longer walk, walking is good for you! As a vegan, fresh fruits and veggies are a necessary staple. Do what you gotta do.

The bulk section in your local supermarket (I'm not against supermarkets, really, I just always find I have to go to 3 or 4 of them to get everything I need!) you will find all sorts of grains. If you're lucky, maybe even dried legumes! My favourite is quinoa. Oh, my goodness, I promise there will be MANY recipes here involving quinoa. It's just about the best gift nature gave us vegans. It's always good to have a bunch of spare mason jars lying around (so eat a lot of pasta sauce!) for filling with grains and things, but tupperware/ziploc storage containers work, too. That way you have something you have a base that you can just add a few little inexpensive fresh veggies too when you are feeling the wallet crunch.

My inspiration for recipes is not very original. I'll basically see something delicious that I can't eat for whatever reason and think to myself - "I wonder if I can veganize that?". Often I can. Sometimes I fail miserably (case in point - gulab jamun. *sigh* I'll tell that story later). So here you will find delicious vegan versions of my (and hopefully your) favourite meals, and the best ones won't be too pricey (and they pricey ones will last you a week, trust me!)

Okay, time for dinner! Bye for now!