World Vegan Day falls on 1 November, and it’s a friendly reminder that plant-based cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re fully vegan or just curious, a handful of pantry swaps can open up a lot of recipes.
Swap the Eggs
Baking is where most people get stuck. A vegan egg replacer makes it simple: try Bob’s Red Mill Vegan Egg Replacer or PBCo Vegan Egg Replacer With Organic Chia. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of Chef’s Choice Organic Black Chia Seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and rest it for a few minutes to make a simple chia egg. Browse more in our Egg Replacement collection.
Get Creamy Without Dairy
For soups, curries and sauces, Chef’s Choice Certified Organic Coconut Milk adds richness in one pour. Blended Carwari Certified Organic Raw Cashews make a smooth, creamy base for dressings and dips, and Carwari Certified Organic Hulled Tahini does the same job with a nutty flavour.
Add Savoury Depth
A spoonful of nutritional yeast gives a cheesy, savoury note to pasta, popcorn and roast veg. Raw Food Factory Nutritional Yeast Flakes are an easy place to start.
Don’t Forget Dessert
Plant-based treats are easy with the right ingredients. Chef’s Choice Certified Organic Dark Chocolate Couverture Drops melt beautifully for mousse, brownies and bark. Check the label for your own dietary needs.
Try a Simple Vegan Weeknight Dinner
Here’s an easy idea: simmer chickpeas, diced tomatoes and a splash of coconut milk with your favourite spices, then serve over rice with a drizzle of tahini. It’s filling, flexible and uses pantry staples. Our Tahini collection has plenty of options if you’d like to try a different style.
Start Small and Build
You don’t need to change everything at once. Pick one meal a week to make plant-based, or swap one ingredient in a favourite recipe. Over time, the habits that suit you will stick, and you’ll build a pantry that makes plant-based cooking feel natural.
FAQ
What are easy swaps for eggs in vegan baking?
Common options include a vegan egg replacer powder or a chia egg, made by mixing 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it rest for a few minutes.
How do I make dishes creamy without dairy?
Coconut milk, blended raw cashews and tahini are popular ways to add creaminess to soups, sauces and dressings.
What is nutritional yeast used for?
Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast with a savoury, cheesy flavour. It’s often sprinkled over popcorn, pasta and vegetables.
Do I have to go fully vegan to try plant-based swaps?
Not at all. Many people add a few plant-based meals or swaps each week without changing everything.