Harmonizing Meals for Southerners: Vegetarian and Meat Eaters Together at the Table

Harmonizing Meals for Southerners: Vegetarian and Meat Eaters Together at the Table

Are you a vegetarian in a mixed-diet marriage? Don't let your fiancé's meat cravings ruin dinner! This guide will help you find satisfying and delicious recipes that can be enjoyed together, allowing you both to have a meal that suits both dietary needs.

The Perfect Cookbook: Discover Almost Vegetarian Recipes

Start by exploring the 'Almost Vegetarian' cookbook. This book is a treasure trove of vegetarian recipes with delicious omnivore variations designed to accommodate the needs of both partners. Outlined below is a detailed look at how these recipes can be adapted to suit both vegetarians and meat-eaters.

Ingredients for 'Almost Vegetarian' cookbook: This cookbook, published in 1993, offers vintage recipes that are versatile and delicious. Many of the recipes are vegan, but additional meat options are included for flexibility.

Vegetarian and Meat Options: Soup and Salads

If you enjoy soups and salads, then you are in luck! You can create a vegetarian base and take turns adding meat to the rest of the meal. Consider making a hearty vegetable soup and then adding chicken or ground beef to your partner’s bowl. Salads can be equally accommodating. Try a Cobb salad or a chef's salad and simply add croutons, meat, or a variety of other toppings to accommodate your partner's preferences.

Gravy: A Classic Solution for Shared Meals

Gravy can be an excellent way to integrate meat into a vegetarian dish. Chipolatas or minced meat can be mixed into a gravy and served over any type of potatoes, making it a versatile option. Alternatively, you can reverse this idea and serve gravy over meat, especially steak or chicken.

Prepared Meat for Easy Integration

Another simple solution is to cook meat in advance and keep it handy for easy integration into the meal. For instance, poach some chicken thighs or roast a pork tenderloin. Shred the chicken and use it in your meals, then turn the tenderloin into convenient slices. By doing this, you can add flavorful meat to your vegetarian dishes without compromising the taste of the whole meal.

Tasteful Integration of Meat: Stuffed Bell Peppers

One of our go-to meals is stuffed bell peppers. You can fill them with quinoa, black beans, vegetables, and spices, then add ground meat or shredded chicken to your partner’s portion. This meal is not only easy and delicious but also ensures that both partners have something they enjoy. You can find many other vegetarian recipe ideas on my website, Yazano, where I have numerous options for situations like yours!

Expand Your Menu with Versatile Vegetarian Recipes

Loose around the internet are countless vegetarian recipes that can be adapted to include meat. Try out different cuisines and styles to find the perfect meal for both of you. From Mexican-inspired dishes to Italian salads, there are countless options that can be customized to suit both dietary needs.

Green Salads and Meatless Options

If you're looking for a more straightforward vegetarian main dish, consider a green salad with ingredients like kidney beans, garbanzo beans, cubed cheese, and avocado. The addition of corn and cherry tomatoes can make it even more flavorful. Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and tostadas can also be both vegetarian and meat options, depending on the toppings you choose.

In conclusion, with a bit of creativity and a little experimentation, you and your fiancé can share delicious meals that cater to both your dietary preferences. From soups to salads and beyond, there are countless options that can be tailored to suit both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Happy cooking!