When first entering the new and exciting world that is vegetarianism, many people find themselves avoiding the same basic foods: poultry, pork, seafood, and beef. What many fail to realize, however, is that animal derivatives are not only commonly used ingredients, but are often placed into foods that are widely labeled as meat- free. It’s easy to make mistakes when you take the first step towards converting your diet, so here are five meat containing foods and their substitutes to help your first year start off on the right foot.
1. Vegetable soup
With a name like that, who would suspect this common winter meal to contain any traces of animal product? Unfortunately, even when meat is not added directly into the mix, beef stock is commonly used as a base, and often cannot be detected by taste alone.
Try Instead: Vegetable soup with vegetable stock
Vegetable stock is an easy commodity to come by, and replaces beef or chicken stock without taking away from the savory flavor.
2. French fries
Although composed simply of potatoes, grease, and salt, some fast food restaurants fry these American-favorites in animal fat.
Try Instead: Store bought french fries
If they’re coming directly from the freezer aisle, french fries will have a clear ingredient label notifying you of any possible meat ingredients.
3. Marshmallows
This one puts a damper on campfires. Gelatin, an ingredient obtained from raw animal materials, is common to most brands of marshmallows.
Try Instead: Vegan marshmallows
There are many gelatin- free marshmallows to be found in grocery stores or on websites. Trader Joe’s, Dandies, and Sweet & Sara are a few brands to try.
4. Refried beans
A staple of Mexican cuisine, refried beans often contain bacon fat or pork lard.
Try Instead: Vegetarian refried beans
These often use olive oil or other substitutes instead of meat, and have no tasteable difference. Many brands offer a vegetarian option, or turn to a cookbook and make some yourself.
5. Yogurt
Many brands of yogurt use gelatin in order to create texture.
Try Instead: Greek Yogurt
Make sure to check the label for gelatin, but many brands, including Chobani and Oikos, are guaranteed vegetarian safe options.
