Veganism consists of a diet void of any meat or any subsequent animal by-products. The following is a vegan survival guide for anyone interested in trying something new and organic for this summer.
1) For a vegan diet, details are of utmost importance. One should pay attention to ingredients in seemingly vegan foods because many contain hidden animal by-products. For example, most people are completely unaware of the fact that refined sugar is not considered vegan-friendly. This trivial fact is quintessential in pursuing a vegan lifestyle. A diet without refined sugar essentially cuts out most processed foods like cereal, soda, most jellies and jams and hard candy. To avoid confusion, only eat foods that you can undoubtedly identify as vegan. Another helpful tip to make the transition to veganism easier is to stick to items that are solely green, including vegetables and fruits. When these types of foods get bland, you can always look for vegan substitutes at your local grocery store. •
2) Dairy, processed foods and anything else containing animal by-products are completely out-of-the-question for any vegan. Because these ‘forbidden products’ are hallmarks of conventional Paula Dean-esque cooking, you need to transition from a gourmand into a culinary artist. You can make this transition by effectively picking up a copy of Another Dinner is Possible!: More Than Just A Vegan Cookbook. As its name suggests, this cookbook contains recipes for dishes that do more than just compare to conventional foods; they both match and exceed the taste of traditional cuisine. The book consists of a variety of easy and creative recipes sure to satisfy any craving. The book also includes several original vegan creations that will enable you to kiss your carnivore ways good-bye forever. •
3) Take a trip to Agoura Hills and fall down into The Rabbit Hole Café. The Alice in Wonderland themed hole-in-the-wall café is something right out of a lucid dream. Inspired by the whimsical tale, this vegan joint will transport you to a mythical wonderland in just one bite. This self-titled “neighborhood café with a conscience” offers fresh and organic meals that do not compromise exquisite flavor. Customers alike favorite items such as the Queen of Hearts salad, vegan Mac ‘n Cheese and Rabbit Hole Pizza. In addition, the café’s wide variety of teas, chais and coffees boasts a selection worthy of the Mad Hatter’s approval. When frozen vegan dinners and cooking grow to be routine, The Rabbit Hole Café is a quaint eatery with personality and vegan-friendly food to match.
