There's dozens of reasons we might need recipes to be vegan: doctor's orders, a change in lifestyle, or food allergies might require we abandon cream, butter and eggs. Fortunately there's some amazing vegan adaptations you can make to your favourites, and you might find a few new favourite tricks here as well!
Non-Dairy "Sour Cream"
This coconut-based "sour cream" makes an exotic, flavourful addition to spicy dishes, and it also works well as a base for creamy dips. It's very versatile; I even tried it on waffles, with a bit of sweet fruit on top, and it was divine! The thick, creamy consistency is similar to that of a yogurt.
How to Make Flax Seed "Eggs"
Flax "eggs" (flegs?) work particularly well in loaves, cookies, and cakes. If you find that your baked good is not rising as much with a flax "egg," increase the amount of baking powder in the recipe by 1/2 teaspoon.
What is Nutritional Yeast?
Nutritional yeast is as common as salt in the cupboards of those of us who have been following plant-based diets for a long time, so I sometimes forget that not everyone is acquainted with this tasty little flake. For every question I receive, I assume there are many people who wonder about it but do not want to ask.
Substituting Heavy Cream
Cashew cream is an excellent substitute for heavy cream and it is very easy to make. Use it as a one-for-one substitution in recipes that call for heavy cream.
Coconut whipped cream is not difficult to make, but there are a few tricks that I follow to make sure I don't have a repeat of that experience. Learn from my mistakes! Follow these steps and you will always get great results.
Meatless Mushroom Gravy
If you are vegetarian, traditional meat gravies are a no-go. Don't worry, you don't need to give up that warm, savoury side dish - mushroom gravy is a wonderful alternative. In my house, this gravy is enjoyed by my meat-loving family, especially when my husband cooks a roast or a turkey on the grill, which doesn't allow for traditional gravy-making.
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