Embracing Plant-Based Living: My Journey of 40 Years as a Vegetarian and 25 Years as a Vegan

For over four decades, I have embraced a vegetarian lifestyle, following the principles of compassion and health. Twenty-five years ago, I took things a step further by transitioning to a vegan diet. Finding joy and nourishment in plant foods has not only improved my health but also allowed me to cultivate a deeper bond with the planet and its inhabitants. Today, my focus has shifted toward minimizing processed foods. I believe that feeling good doesn’t have to come at a high price, leading me to create a simple yet delicious recipe that even my meat-loving family enjoys: a hearty, flavorful lentil daal.

The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Transitioning to a vegetarian and then vegan diet isn’t just a trend—it’s a transformative lifestyle choice. The benefits of choosing a plant-based diet are numerous:

1. Health Benefits: Many studies indicate that plant-based diets are associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy nutrients, plant foods boost overall health and vitality.
2. Environmental Impact: The meat industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage. Reducing animal-based food consumption can help diminish one’s carbon footprint and cultivate a more sustainable planet.
3. Ethical Considerations: Choosing a plant-based lifestyle often stems from a profound sense of compassion for animals. By forgoing meat and animal products, we make a stand against an industry that causes suffering to countless creatures.
4. Culinary Exploration: An unexpected joy of vegetarianism and veganism is the colorful culinary voyage it invites us on. The diverse flavors and textures of vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts provide endless opportunities for creativity in the kitchen.

Discovering Daal: A Lovingly Simple Recipe

With every meal, I aim to showcase the vibrant flavors of plant-based ingredients while remaining true to my principles. One of my go-to dishes has become this hearty daal—a traditional Indian lentil dish. This recipe is simple, affordable, and satisfying; it’s a perfect example of the incredible meals one can create using wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups red lentils: Rich in protein and fiber, red lentils are quick to cook and have a delightful, nutty flavor. They are also full of nutrients, providing iron, folate, and magnesium.
• 1 onion: Sautéed until translucent, onions provide a savory base for the dish, releasing their natural sugars and deepening its flavor.
• 3-4 garlic cloves: Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic quality and is known for its numerous health benefits.
• 1 tsp each of turmeric, ginger, coriander powder, and cumin: These spices are not only essential for the depth of flavor but also pack a punch of health benefits—turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger aids digestion.
• 2 tsp garam masala: A delightful blend of warm spices, garam masala introduces an authentic taste of Indian cuisine.
• 3 3/4 cups vegetable broth: This serves as the cooking liquid, contributing additional flavors and nutrients.
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes (optional): Provides acidity and a hint of sweetness, balancing the richness of coconut milk.
• 1 tin coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle tropical flavor, transforming the daal into a comforting dish.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Start by sautéing the chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan. If you prefer an oil-free version, you can sauté them in a splash of vegetable broth or water. Cook until the onion is translucent and begins to soften.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in turmeric, ginger, coriander powder, cumin, and garam masala. Allow them to simmer for a couple of minutes, releasing the essential oils and intensifying their flavors.
3. Incorporate Lentils and Broth: Add your washed red lentils and the vegetable broth to the mix. Stir well, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the broth is nearly absorbed, and the lentils are tender—this should take around 15-20 minutes.
4. If Using, Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk: If you opt for the chopped tomatoes, add them after the lentils are cooked. Then incorporate the creamy coconut milk, allowing it to simmer gently until it reaches your desired thickness.
5. Serve and Enjoy: This daal pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even roasted potatoes, making for a nourishing meal. Although my grandson initially questioned a plant-based meal, after tasting this recipe, he exclaimed, “It tastes like something from an Indian restaurant!” It warmed my heart to see that a dish so simple could create such joy.

Embracing the Future of Food

As I reflect on my journey of becoming a vegetarian and then a vegan, I often find myself reminiscing about the dinners shared with family and friends, where good food sparked delightful conversation. It’s rewarding to know that I can prepare meals that surprise and please even the most devout meat-eaters in my life.

In a world where convenience often trumps health, returning to basics can be liberating. Choosing whole, minimally processed foods enables us to nourish our bodies while respecting our planet. Cooking simple and nutritious recipes—such as my lentil daal—reminds us that healthy eating does not have to be expensive or time-consuming.

The Social Impact of Plant-Based Meals

One of the most profound aspects of sharing plant-based meals with my family is witnessing the shift in perception regarding vegetarian and vegan diets. A well-cooked, flavorful dish can break down barriers and encourage acceptance among those who might be skeptical.

Food has a unique power to unite individuals. By inviting relatives to try vegetarian options and explaining the nutritional benefits and ethical reasons behind my choices, I strive to foster understanding and awareness. Many of my family members have expressed interest in incorporating more plant-based meals into their diets, creating a shared journey of exploration and learning.

Conclusion

My four decades as a vegetarian and 25 years as a vegan have profoundly shaped my life—imbuing it with health, compassion, and connection. While the culinary world is vast and diverse, I find that the simplicity of a good lentil daal embodies everything I cherish about plant-based cooking.

My journey is a testament to plant-based living’s richness, demonstrating that even the simplest recipes can be packed with flavor and nutrition. By sharing meals with those I love, I hope to inspire others to consider their food choices and experience the joys of plant-based living.

So next time you’re looking for an easy-to-make, highly satisfying meal, give my daal recipe a try. It’s not just food; it’s an experience—a journey that will nourish your body, soothe your soul, and delight your taste buds. Embrace the plant-based lifestyle; you might be surprised at how delicious it can be!