How is vegetarian cooking different?

How is Vegetarian Cooking Different?

I became vegetarian around 12 years ago, and it really reshaped my cooking. Vegetarianism has existed for millennia in places like India and Greece. Remember this, and learn from these cultures with love and reverence.

My Principles of Successful Plant-Based Cooking

1. Put vegetables at the centre of what you eat, eat local, seasonal vegetables and make them the hero of your meal. For me putting vegetables at the centre means vegetables front and centre, as the hero and something to be celebrated.

1. Flavour and flavour profiles are key in creating a really rounded dish.

1. Texture is so important in vegetarian cooking. Adding crunch, creaminess, chewiness and freshness is pivotal to creating great vegetarian food.

1. I believe in caring for your vegetables and treating them with respect. Think about vegetables as something in the middle of your meal rather than a side dish. Balance is super important, having some of all the flavours, textures and food groups.

1. Swaps are really important in plant-based cooking. For example, capers can be used in place of anchovies. When we start to replace those flavours we are used to cooking with, it really opens up cooking. I prefer celebrating vegetables rather than using meat substitutes.

1. Colour is an easy way for you to think about having a varied diet both in terms of nutrients, flavour and biodiversity. I try to have a variety of different coloured vegetables in my home as well as lots of different colours of beans and grains. Having a vibrant colourful diet includes your pantry too.

1. I can't overemphasise the importance of quality food shopping. You want to invest in the best quality possible, and be mindful that every pound you spend in the shops is casting a vote for the kind of food system you want to see.

1. Flavour boosters, which are easy to make and keep in your fridge, add really quick flavour boost to dishes.

1. I always make sure I have some form of protein in every meal whether that's egg, pulses, seeds or tofu.