Want to cut back on the amount of meat you eat but not give it up entirely?Consider becoming an occasional vegetarian!
Ive always felt a bit uncomfortable about eating meat. I was vegetarian for a few years in my early twenties, however never eating meat just didnt work for me long term. So not too long ago, I decided to reduce the occasions on which I ate meat as well as make a concerted effort to choose vegetarian options where possible. In short, I became an occasional vegetarian.
To be fair, this wasnt a huge leap for me, because I have always loved vegetables. One of my favourite summer dinners as a kid was a plate of steamed asparagus with a couple poached eggs on top. My husband enjoys vegetables too, so it never occurred to our son not to like them. From broccoli trees to his favourite (I kid you not!) Brussels sprouts, our son has always loved veggies.
A Kinder and More Environmentally Friendly Way of Eating
I do struggle with the ethics of eating meat, so I feel very strongly that animals raised for meat must be ethically and humanely raised.
Battery eggs or for industrially reared meat have no place in our food chain. The idea that a chicken can legally be reared from chick to full grown in a matter of weeks, crushed into a barn with no space to move, and never feel the sun on its back, absolutely incenses me. Intensive farming is unkind to animals. Due to the pressure it creates on the environment and the antibiotics often given to the animals, it is very bad for humans too.
Do you feel something like this as well? Then consider joining my family and I as an occasional vegetarian. Its delicious, good for you, and benefits your health and the family budget. Plus, itsactually much easier than you might think.
Recipe Inspiration for Occasional Vegetarians
From breakfast to dinner, theres something for everyone!
Baked Overnight Oatmeal with Rhubarb and Almonds
Easy Provencal Vegetable Gratin
Tips to Help You Become an Occasional Vegetarian
Check out The Meatless Monday or Meat Free Monday movements. Both offer easy ways to gently introduce your family to meat free meals.The Vegetarian Societyalso offers fantastic recipes and advice.
Take it one meal at a time. If a whole day meat free is too much to start with, just try one meal. Every step forward helps.
Try serving vegetables drizzled with a bit of butter or olive oil to encourage reluctant vegetable eaters. A bit of healthy fat never hurt anyone and it really does enhance their flavour. A pinch of salt can also make vegetables taste delicious, but always add salt after cooking.
Explore vegetarian options in your favourite restaurants. There are some really creative and delicious dishes available these days.
Being Occasional Vegetarians really works as a lifestyle for my family and I. We feel good about how our choice impacts on the environment and helps to reduce our carbon footprint. Its also a delicious way to eat more healthily and save money. I encourage you to give it a try too!
More Vegetarian Recipe Inspiration
Vegetarian Dinner Ideas For Back To School
Meatless Monday Recipes That Will Become Family Favourites
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The post Becoming An Occasional Vegetarian Easy Ways to Eat Less Meat appeared first on April J Harris.
