In recent years, veganism has become an increasingly popular, perhaps even trendy, lifestyle choice. More and more people are choosing to adopt a vegan diet for ethical, environmental, health, or other personal reasons. However, whatever the reason, one of the number one questions that many aspiring vegans have is "Where am I supposed to get my protein?" Well, while it can be challenging to get enough protein on a vegan diet, there are actually plenty of plant-based sources of protein out there that are both nutritious and delicious. Let's take a look at some of the best vegan protein sources below!
Beans and Legumes
These are both excellent sources of vegan protein. Not only are they relatively cheap and easy to find, but they're also packed with nutrients like fibre, iron, and potassium. Some of the best beans and legumes to include in your diet are black beans, lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans. The nice thing about these is that they're all pretty versatile, so you can use them in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and veggie burgers.
Nuts and Nut Butters
Like beans and legumes, vegan nuts and nut butters are also full of protein. They're also a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. For example, almonds are high in magnesium, while cashews are a good source of zinc. So, next time you're in the mood for a snack, consider picking up some nuts or nut butters. They're certainly delicious by themselves, but you can also use them in recipes like homemade granola bars or vegan chocolate chip cookies.
Seeds
Vegans can also find a good amount of protein in seeds. Just like nuts, they're chock full of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, like omega-fatty acids and magnesium. While there are a few different types of seeds known for their protein content, including pumpkin and chia seeds, hemp seeds are probably one of the best options. This is because they contain all 20 amino acids, including the nine essential ones that our bodies can't produce on their own. Feel free to add them to smoothies and baking recipes, or simply sprinkle them on top of salads.
Vegetables
It may come as a surprise, but some vegetables actually contain a fair amount of protein, like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. However, it's important to note that you would have to eat significantly more of these vegetables to get the same amount of protein as you would from other vegan protein sources. So, while they're a great addition to your diet, you shouldn't rely on them as your only source of protein.
...And Even More!
There are plenty of other vegan protein sources out there, including quinoa, seitan, tofu, tempeh, and spirulina. So, if you're looking to add more protein to your diet, be sure to check out some of these options. With a little creativity, you'll be able to find a protein source that fits both your taste and nutritional needs.
Looking for a restaurant that serves vegan protein sources? You’ve come to the right place! Check out our menu at Press Market here, and consider dropping by for a bite today!