5 Super-Easy Ways for Pre-Vegans to Start Making the Transition

If you’re into the idea of eating more plants and fewer animals — but don’t know where to start — rest easy; we’re here to help. Transitioning to a veg-strong diet is easier, more fun, and more delicious, than you might think!

Here are five super-easy ways for pre-vegans to start making the switch:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVuZINQlxmn/?taken-by=ripplefoods&hl=en

Switch to non-dairy butter and milk.
With so many vegan options available, it’s easier than every to say “moo-ve over, cow’s milk” and choose dairy-free butter, milk, creamer, and more. There are literally dozens of non-dairy milk options, from coconut to almond to soy, and more creamers hit the market every day. Check out Silk, Califia Farms, and Ripple brands. If you don’t like one product, try another; there’s something for everyone. For butter, try Earth Balance or Smart Balance (available at every major grocer), or Miyoko’s European Style Cultured VeganButter. Trust us — you’ll never miss the cow’s milk!

Sample some meatless meats.
More and more plant meats are making it to store shelves on the daily, and many are indistinguishable from the real thing. Try Beyond Meat’s Beyond Burger, or the Impossible Burger from Impossible Foods. Or try Gardein’s Sweet and Sour Porkless Bites; or Tofurky’s Slow Roasted Chick’n or Deli Slices. The possibilities are endless and everywhere!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVm_McclkE6/?taken-by=lovemysilk

Watch some Netflix documentaries.
When it comes to going vegan, motivation is half the battle. Check out some of these documentaries on Netflix; they’ll help inspire you to start making changes in your dietary decisions. Vegucated shows you what it’s like to switch to veganism; Forks Over Knives and What the Health cover the health benefits of a plant-based diet; Cowspiracy addresses the devastating environmental impact of meat, dairy, and eggs. There are flicks for every aspect of a plant-based lifestyle, so take your pick!

Find a vegan restaurant (or restaurant with vegan options) you love.
Check out your favorite eateries and see what they offer that’s vegan. Most sushi spots, for example, have veggie rolls, miso soup, seaweed salad and other vegan choices. If you’re out of luck at the places where you usually go, scope out some veg or veg-friendly spots in your area; see what their menus look like and stop in for a sample. Once you find a go-to meal or two, you’ll be set for nights out.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVsOs2IjymL/?taken-by=the_tofurky_company&hl=en

Veganize a few of your favorite recipes.
It’s literally as easy as switching out the animal ingredients for vegan versions of the same foods. Earth Balance for butter; Daiya shreds for cheese; Tofurky sausage for pork, etc. Pick a few of the easier recipes you really love, then buy vegan versions of the animal ingredients. Check out the vegan/veg section of your local supermarket, and familiarize yourself with the options. You’ll get that familiar flavor with none of the cruelty, and you won’t feel the slightest bit deprived.

Browse TryVeg.com/recipes for easy and delicious meals, and download or order our FREE Vegetarian Starter Guide to make your vegan transition as easy as one, two, dairy-free cheese.