5 Vegan Dishes from Around the World

One of the main reasons why many people adopt a vegan meal plan and give up shortly thereafter is because they frame the word “vegan” in terms of what they can’t eat. When you think about how you’re depriving yourself, of course you’re going to get frustrated and throw in the towel! Eliminating meat and dairy products from your shopping list can sound restrictive, but it actually leaves a lot on the table. In fact, becoming vegan is an opportunity to discover a whole new world of food.

It’s no secret that the typical American diet is saturated with meat and dairy. These products are tightly woven into the fabric of our country’s food culture. But if you take a step back and look at what folks are eating in different parts of the world, you’ll find that many countries emphasize a cleaner diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic spices, and healthy grains.

As a self-proclaimed vegan foodie, I’m always up for trying a new type of cuisine. At one point I had a rule that I had to try food from a different country every time I decided to go to a restaurant or order takeout. This international culinary adventure really expanded my palate and forced me to try things I’d never even heard of before. If you live in a big city like I do, it’s pretty easy to find Ethiopian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Israeli restaurants. But for those of you with limited access to these resources, you can easily recreate tasty and diverse dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Here are five vegan dishes from around the world that will knock your socks off.

Indian

Tofu Tikka Masala

The flavors in this Tofu Tikka Masala are so complex and delicious. Plus, your house will smell amazing while it’s cooking.

Get the recipe from food, pleasure & health.

Vietnamese

Vegan Pho

A warm bowl of Pho (pronounced ‘fuh’) is always a light, fresh and satisfying meal. Not to mention, it’s pretty filling!

Get the recipe from vega.

Israeli

Homemade Falafel

It’s chickpeas like you’ve never had them before! Skip the tahini sauce and stuff a pita pocket with hummus and greens for a quick and tasty lunch.

Get the recipe from Just a Taste.

Thai

Thai Coconut Curry Soup

This soup has a strong Thai influence thanks to the cilantro, ginger, curry, and lemongrass. Perfect for these last few weeks of chilly weather.

Get the recipe from Produce on Parade.

Ethiopian

Tikel Gomen

Perhaps the most foreign of the bunch, Ethiopian food has a unique taste you won’t find anywhere else. Be sure to make Injera flatbread to go with this cabbage dish!

Get the recipe from The Stay at Home Chef.

What’s your favorite international vegan dish?