A whopping third of all land on earth is used to produce livestock. Our planet is in need of saving and our impact (no matter how small) can equate to big changes! Going meat free for at least one day a week can help reduce carbon emissions and toxic waste. Also, how can you not love the face below?
Why Meat Free? ??
Because it’s not only better for your health, its better for our planet!
Swapping your diet for vegan/vegetarian alternatives has a shed load of benefits including;
- Boost in energy
- Improved Health
- Reduces animal suffering
- Helps alleviate world hunger
- Protects biodiversity
- Reduces carbon footprint
And the list goes on! With so many options available to us, going meat free isn’t as hard as you may think.
The Commitment ✅
Before you panic, we’re not asking you to swap your beef burgers for lettuce wraps forever (although, that would be great!) but simply taking the initial steps to making those small changes that have a big impact collectively.
It’s important to set your intention and what you wish to achieve when taking the plunge. Having a clear goal will give you a sense of purpose and make working towards it a lot easier!
Meat Free Monday is a great way to commit to one day a week of going meat free, an easy way to help save our planet!
Guilt – free Grub ?
We’ve shared our fav protein packed recipes that you can try your dab hand at creating, giving you all the flavour and goodness you’ll need. Sink your teeth into these meatless recipes that won’t have you missing the real deal!
Ham-less Sub
You can still enjoy your favs when choosing to cut out meat. There are so many great alternatives available, full of the essential nutrients our bodies need so you won’t be missing out! This easy recipe can be adapted as per your taste (and whatever you have lying around in your uni fridge!)
Ingrediants
- Vegan Baguette
- Vegan Ham alternative
- Salad of choice
- Eggless/dairy free dressing/condiments
Method
Were not going to break down how to make a sandwich but a few simple tips will make this lunchtime treat, even more delicious! Half your baguette and lightly toast. Layer on your salad choices (get creative!) and then top with sauce of choice and et voila! For a vegetarian option, why not layer the ham alternative with some cheese and grill – mmm!
Vegan Chilli
Who doesn’t love a good hearty pot of chilli? This easy to make recipe is packed with flavour and plant power and usually makes for great leftovers unless your housemates get to it first!
Ingrediants
- x1 packet of vegan meat free mince
- x1 tin red kidney beans
- Tomato paste/puree
- x1 large onion
- x1 red pepper
- Fresh or prepared garlic
- Vegan stock cube
- A little help from your spice cupboard!
Method
Chop up your veg and set aside. Warm up some oil in a pan and sauté your garlic and onion until soft. Add in your mince and cook according to instructions on packet, meanwhile boil your kettle! Dissolve a stock cube in a pint of boiling water and set aside. It’s now time to season your mince, we recommend smoked paprika, garlic salt, cumin, black pepper & salt as the basics, feel free to change according to your taste! You can also find pre mixed chilli seasoning in your local supermarket and it’s usually very cheap! Cook the spices for a couple of minutes then squeeze in some tomato puree or tin (whichever you have) and mix, slowly adding in the stock water and loosening the mixture.
Throw in your red peppers and any over veg you wish to add, whack on the lid to your pot and leave on a low heat, stirring occasionally until it all cooks and comes together. Sprinkle on some cheese or vegan alternative for some extra yumminess!
Protein Packed Pasta
If meat alternatives are not for you, this pasta recipe is the equivalent of a warm hug on a winter’s day and won’t having you missing meat!
Ingrediants
- Pasta of choice (penne, rigatonni or fusili work well!)
- x1 handful of spinach leaves
- Fresh or prepared garlic
- x1 pack of Chestnut Mushrooms (replace with auberjine chunks if preferable)
- x1 red onion
- 1/2 tin ofButter Beans
- Jar of pasta sauce
- Spices
Method
Boil your pasta according to instructions in salty water. Chop your veg and cook in a pan alongside a handful of spices and seasonings (basil, oregano. garlic salt, black pepper, chilli flakes…) then add in your butter beans and sauce, warming up and stirring gently. Once your pasta is cooked and drained, toss into the pan and fold in the sauce. Sprikle on cheese or a vegan alternative if you wish!
#ProtectOurPlanet ?
Well done for taking the first step in doing your bit for our earth! It’s not easy making changes, especially when trying something new. The more you practice, the easier it becomes. Who knows, meat free Monday could soon become your new norm!