Top Five Most Vegan-Friendly Cuisines 

By Jillian Webster

 

Top Five Most Vegan-Friendly Cuisines 

  • Moroccan 

  • Ethiopian

  • Thai

  • Mexican

  • Indian

Veganism is on the rise, and with good reason. It's a healthy, sustainable, and ethical way to eat. Here are some of the best vegan cuisines from around the world.

Many believe they will give up their ability to experiment with new cuisines and culinary experiences. Others are worried about relying on plant-based meat alternatives and the potential dangers of processed foods. Luckily, many traditions worldwide offer vegan options without using processed meat replacements. 

This guide discusses five vegan-friendly cuisines. This guide is a good starting point to discovering many more cuisines that will open your mind and your taste buds to without animal products.

Moroccan

Many Moroccan dishes are vegan by default. Vegans have multiple choices of appetizers, sides, and mains that all entice the pallet while still appealing to your principles. 

Often, Moroccan food is served with bread. It is rare to find a recipe for Moroccan bread that includes milk or eggs. It is a delicious staple that enhances every meal.

Many Moroccan salads are a beautiful blend of vegetables and spices. Zouluk is a delicious example of a vegan dish prevalent in Moroccan culture. Zaalouk is a lovely eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and spices blend.

Don’t forget the Mediterranean nature of Moroccan cuisine. Many recipes include olives, eggplant, olive oil, and aromatics. All of which are vegan-friendly and satisfying.

Mexican

If thinking about Mexican food conjures up images of dairy-heavy Tex-Mex, you may have assorted views of the vegetable-rich cuisine of Mexico. Now, lard is often used as a cooking medium, especially with things like beans, so be careful. However, many dishes include fresh vegetables, from guacamole to cactus tacos.

Ethiopian

Ethiopian cuisine is super vegan-friendly. Ethiopian traditions include many fast days where members of the Ethiopian Orthodox church abstain from animal products. As a result, many Ethiopian dishes have evolved to be vegan-friendly. 

Though Ethiopia is a meat-loving country, they have a lot of rich food diversity. Yetsom beyaynetu, with the famous fermented bread injera, is a vegan’s dream with various dishes that engage your senses.

Thai

Thai food, like the country of Thailand, is full of color and flavor. Because of the Buddhist history of the nation, the cuisine has a unique take on vegetarian dishes. Many curries can be made vegetarian, and many restaurants cater to vegans.

Many dishes, such as Pad Thai, are prepared with fish sauce, so you may need to double-check when ordering. However, it is straightforward to accommodate a vegan diet. Coconut milk is a staple of Thai cuisine and is often used in curries and drinks such as Thai-style iced tea. Thai food is one of the most vegan-friendly cuisines in the world.

Indian

If you’ve never had Chana Masala, you are in for a treat. One of the best curries to exit happens to be vegan. Chana Masala roughly translates to chickpeas in spiced gravy. This dish has many ways, but chickpeas are typically simmered in onion, tomato, and spices. What is not to love?

Beyond Chana Masala, many Indian dishes are a celebration of vegetables. It is important to note that India is a massive country with many different traditions. That being said, there is a large portion of vegetarians in India. Vegans should be wary of using ghee, paneer, cow’s milk, yogurt, and cream. However, most Indian restaurants have an in-depth knowledge of veganism and are more than willing to accommodate.