By Carla Oates
These days we are spoiled for choice when it comes to healthy, nutrient-dense food options—whether we identify as omnivore, vegetarian, vegan or otherwise. However, many of us also have to deal with dietary restrictions, intolerances and allergies that can make both eating out—and cooking at home—tricky!
So, given the current trend towards adopting a more plant-based diet—we wanted to share some of our favourite plant-based and vegan meals, that are as delicious as they are good for your gut. While at The Beauty Chef we certainly don’t exclude quality meats and we speak often about the benefits of healing foods like bone broth, we also understand there is a growing want and need for more plant-based and vegan options. Given that research also shows just how important eating a wide variety of plant foods each day is for our gut health and the diversity of our microbiome—this is certainly a trend we’re happy to support!
Whether you choose to embrace a vegan diet due to health or lifestyle choices, or are simply looking for more cost-effective ways to nourish your body and embrace #meatlessmondays—here are a few of our fave vegan meals (that also happen to be great for your gut!)...
Okra, Roasted Tomato & Buckwheat Noodle Bowl With Miso Ginger Broth
While okra doesn’t traditionally get a lot of time in the spotlight, it’s a veggie packed with gut-loving fibre and skin-protective antioxidants. Use a simple vegetable broth to keep this dish vegan and enjoy the umami flavour bomb that comes from the addition of miso!
Pan-Fried Cauliflower Gnocchi With Creamy Pesto Sauce
Everyone loves gnocchi, but usually the takeaway is a feeling of stodginess that can seemingly take hours to dissipate post-meal. But these fluffy variations are the perfect way to satisfy your gnocchi craving—and give your gut a whole lotta love! Simply ditch the egg to make these vegan and serve with a chunky basil pesto.
Chocolate, Banana & Tahini Protein Balls
Okay, so these aren’t technically a full ‘meal’—but who doesn’t love a good snack? Made using our vegan protein powder, BODY Inner Beauty Support, these little morsels pack a punch and are the ideal pick-me-up when hunger pangs strike.
Parsnip, Leek & Apple Soup With Walnut Dukkah
Parsnip is definitely one of the most underrated vegetables (in our opinion!) and in this soup recipe, they truly are the standout! Offering a subtle sweetness, this belly-warming bowl is the perfect winter dish.
Indian-Spiced Sweet Potato & Lentil Cakes
Packed with plant-based fibre, these tasty cakes are as delicious for lunch as they are for dinner! Simply use coconut yoghurt to make the raita vegan—but we promise, the kids will love these as much as you do!
