Print out the full e-Book and log your progress to stay on course with the helpful journal in the back. Get ready to get your diet–and your body–back on a healthy track. You’re going to feel amazing.

See The Beet’s Plant-Based Diet in a beautiful e-Book to download, print, and keep handy!

Instead of sharing the e-Book with friends, have them sign up for The Beet’s Plant-Based Diet and do it together. They’ll get all the daily newsletters, expert tips, and helpful online support that you get.

Download the e-book here.

Your password to open the ebook is: GoVeganGetHealthy2022

Keep Track of Your Progress

Keeping a progress log is an effective way to stay on track throughout your diet. Use this log to write down your day-to-day meals, workouts, mood and wins to help you ace this diet.

Here is The Beet’s Plant-Based Diet Progress Tracker.

The post Download The Beet’s Plant-Based Diet E-Book: 100+ Pages of Recipes and Tips appeared first on The Beet.

The Perfect Christmas Gifts

There’s no sweeter way to show your love than by gifting friends or family a stack of vegan holiday cookies that lean healthier than traditional recipes and are just as festive and delicious! For easy gift ideas for everyone, take your pick of any of our cookie recipes, bake them to perfection, stack them, then wrap them in Mason Jars or paper cookie boxes, and finish with a ribbon.

Egg Replacement for Baking

Many of these vegan holiday cookie recipes require some kind of egg replacement, and each recipe will provide an alternative. In general, flaxseed or ‘flax eggs’ work perfectly for baking because when mixed with water, the seed turns sticky and has the same binding effect as an egg.

To find out more, we have a complete guide on how to make a flax egg with the best flax-to-water ratio and all the different ways you can use a flax egg. Don’t have flax seed or want a different egg replacement? Here’s a list of easy egg alternatives so you can ensure your recipes are completely vegan and delicious:

• Overripe Banana (1 overripe banana equals one egg)
• Silken Tofu (1/4 cup silken tofu equals one egg)
• Flaxseeds or Chia seeds (1 tbsp of seeds combined with 3 tbsp water equals one egg)
• Chickpea Brine or ‘Aquafaba’ (The liquid of 1 can of chickpeas equals one egg)
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp cornstarch combined with 3 tbsp water equals one egg)
• Avocado (1/4 cup of avocado equals one egg)
• Applesauce (1/4 cup of applesauce equals one egg)
• Pumpkin or Sweet Potato Puree (1/4 cup of puree equals one egg)
• Vegan Yogurt (1/4 cup of yogurt equals one egg)

Healthy Sugar Substitutes

These vegan holiday cookies all have one thing in common, sugar! But, don’t sweat it if you want to continue eating healthy because we have a list of healthier-for-you vegan sweeteners that are minimally processed or completely natural.

Even with so-called, “natural” sugars, the less you eat the better, so consider these a healthier treat! Try these easy vegan sugar alternatives and you may notice a difference in your energy compared to the way you feel after eating a processed sugar-loaded cookie.

•  Brown Rice Syrup
• Maple Syrup
• Yacon Root Syrup
• Blackstrap Molasses
• Date Syrup
• Monkfruit Sweetener

The Best Vegan Holiday Cookie Recipes

1. 5-Ingredient Vegan Sugar Cookies

Skip the store-bought sugar cookies and grab your holiday cookie cutters and decorations instead! This 5-ingredient vegan sugar cookie recipe will have all your family and friends asking to join in on the decorating.

2. Vegan Ginger Cookies

These Vegan Molasses Ginger Cookies taste like the holidays with their festive spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, vanilla, and black pepper.

3. One-Bowl Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

One-Bowl Vegan Peppermint Brownie cookies are chewy, fudgy, rich, and dense, and combine two of our favorite desserts: Chocolate cookies and brownies.

4. Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Complete the perfect holiday gifting presentation and put these gingerbread cookies in a cheerful cookie box and tie it closed with a festive ribbon.

5. 6 Ingredient Vegan Snowball Cookies

Guests will go crazy over these buttery and nutty vegan holiday cookies without ever knowing they took you under 30 minutes to make.

6. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Want the best vegan and gluten-free chocolate chip cookie recipe of all time? Try this one for cookies that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.

7. Vegan Peanut Butter Date Cookies

Have you heard of “1-1-1” cookies? The idea is that just three ingredients —1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 vegan egg — can make amazing cookies.

8. Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Swirl

These shortbread swirl cookies make the perfect holiday treat: Wrap them in boxes tied with ribbon as gifts for friends and neighbors – if they last that long. They’re so melt-in-your-mouth good there may not be any left, so you better make a double batch!

9. Vegan Nut Butter Cookies

Healthier Nutter Butter Cookies that are plant-based and gluten-free? This must be a dream. These peanut butter sandwich cookies are made with a base of oat flour and naturally sweetened with maple syrup.

10. Vegan, Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

“I love these easy vegan oatmeal chocolate chip cookies because they are super easy to throw together in one bowl and as a bonus, they’re flourless and gluten-free too.” – Lauren Toyota

11. Chef Chloe Coscarelli’s Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Chunk Cookies

The raspberry chocolate chunk cookies are a perfect combination of decadent chocolatey flavor and juicy tart bursts of raspberry, with an extra-festive holiday look & taste. The peanut butter snowballs pack a nutty taste which is complimented by notes of cheerful cinnamon.

12. Vegan, Gluten-Free Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

These thumbprint cookies are secretly paleo, dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free as well, a perfect fifit for any and all types of eaters!
13. Vegan and Paleo Ginger Molasses Cookies

Your classic ginger molasses cookie just got a major upgrade: This vegan, paleo, and gluten-free version tastes just like the traditional recipe while also being nut-free.

14. Festive Vegan Crinkle Cookies

These vegan cookies are festive, fudgy, chocolatey, and so delicious, with no dairy added. They are the perfect holiday treat because they are super simple and only take half an hour to make.

15. Vegan Apple Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Consider a healthy option like these apple butter oatmeal cookies. They taste delicious and you won’t even know they’re vegan.

16. Vegan Double Chocolate Cookies With Peanut Butter Filling

If you’re a fan of chocolate peanut butter cups, (and who isn’t?!) these cookies are the perfect treat for you. Over-the-top decadent, these cookies feature a rich chocolate dough with a peanut butter center and chocolate chips.

17. No-Bake Vegan and Gluten-Free Matcha Cookies

Want to enjoy sweets without feeling guilty? These matcha cookies are vegan and gluten-free with only 165 calories per large-sized cookie, or three small-sized cookies. They include 7 grams of plant-based protein and only have 3 grams of sugar.

18. Vegan Oreo Cookies

Make healthier Oreo cookies at home with this quick and easy recipe that preserves all the great flavors of the store-bought favorite using only natural plant-based ingredients. These cookies are oil-free, refined sugar-free, and gluten-free, making them a great choice for any dietary restrictions.

19. Vegan Oat Cookies

Do you love cookies with crispy, golden brown edges and a chewy soft texture in the middle? Then you’ll love these vegan oat cookies, made with plant-based and gluten-free ingredients with a simple swap of flour.

20. Cinnamon Cookies

Love crunchy cinnamon cookies? Make this easy vegan recipe with a chewy middle and crispy, crunchy outside.

For more delicious holiday recipes, check out The Beet’s recipe library.

The post The 20 Best Vegan Christmas Cookies to Bake This Weekend appeared first on The Beet.

Back in 2019 Osbourne underwent a minimally invasive surgery called a “gastric” sleeve, which helps curb hunger and make it easier for her to maintain a healthy weight. But since then she has also changed her diet to become healthier and her motivation, she said, was to be her best self in order to get pregnant and become a mom, which she did in October 2022, having her first boy.

“I did the gastric sleeve. All it does is change the shape of your stomach,” Osbourne explained. “I got that almost two years ago. I will never, ever, ever lie about it ever. It is the best thing I have ever done.”

She also shared that she stopped drinking a few years before, which she also said is “the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Healthy Eating, Working Out and Being Accountable

“If you don’t work out and you don’t eat right, you gain weight,” Osbourne told a reporter. “All [the surgery] does is move you in the right direction. So, anybody who’s thinking of doing something like this, really think about that,” Osbourne added.

“I had to do a year of stand-alone therapy to prepare myself for the surgery before I even had it. What people don’t realize is it cuts out this hormone that if you have addiction issues, it stops your craving, and it makes you not emotionally eat, and that was a huge problem for me.”

After struggling with her weight for many years, Osbourne has finally found a lifestyle that works for her, and it includes plant-based eating and intermittent fasting. She wakes up every morning and drinks her coffee, followed by a green juice, which is also a great way to boost immunity as you lose weight.

Osbourne said she typically only juices until dinner time, then she’ll have a healthy meal. Intermittent fasting is timing your intake, so you go without food for 14 to 16 hours, then eat healthy foods during the “on hours,” so your body burns fat for fuel and the pounds drop off.

Make a commitment to yourself, to take care of yourself, then put that into action

Rather than abandon her health goals during the quarantine, Osbourne doubled down on her resolution to make 2020  “the year of me” as she told her Instagram followers back in December, and by summer she revealed the results of her hard work. In the first two weeks of quarantine, she revealed she had already lost seven pounds and had more energy than ever. “I went into actions rather than sitting here in fear,” said Osbourne, referring to how she stayed motivated.

Osbourne has been eating a vegan diet since 2012 and continues to love it. “I used to think being a vegan was boring. Now I have more fun with food now than I ever have before,” she captioned a post of hummus and cucumber on bread.

“For me, what it’s all about is finding that healthy moderation, which is easier said than done … When you sat there in front of a plate of french fries, there is no moderation.” Osbourne continued. “So you have to realize if I’m going to eat this, I’m going to do an extra 15 minutes [of working out] … just balance everything out.”

The 35-year-old Australia’s Got Talent judge and former Fashion Police judge is open about her past drug use, getting sober and using food to satisfy her cravings. Not anymore. Now she is hooked on feeling healthy, working out and eating foods that fuel her lean body. Here is a look at her workout routine that helped her burn off the fat faster.

What does a typical workout look like for Osbourne?

Lacy Stone, Osbourne’s trainer, told Hollywood Life, that the best workouts for losing weight fast are high-intensity interval sessions, and doing circuits of moves that recruit different muscle groups like a series of squats, lunges, deadlifts, push-ups, dumbbell bicep curls, shoulder presses, and arm dips.

For maximum results, do three sets of 12 to 20 reps, twice or three times a week. For full-body toning and to strengthen and tighten your core, “girdle” section and reduce back pain while you tone and strengthen your arms and legs, the simplest move is the plank (hold it for 45 to 60 seconds, and do three sets) and bicycle kicks, lying on your back and cycling your legs in tight circles in the air, slightly off the floor.

For a series of the best 5-Minute Moves, check out The Beet’s Easy Workouts here.

Combining cardio (like jogging or swimming at a steady pace for 20, 30, or 45 minutes) with strength training (the moves above use your body weight to get toned and strong) is the ideal weight loss plan, says Stone. She recommends doing cardio three days a week, at least.

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For best results, mix up your workouts to not get injured and to tax different muscle groups: One day choose indoor cycling and strength training, the next a long slow run, the third, swim continuously even if you don’t do the crawl, just keep moving in the water, for half an hour or longer.

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Stone also encourages workouts like spin for those who want to lose weight but not their curves. “Spin is a great way to lose pounds, but strength training is an absolute must-have to keep your curves,” Stone told Hollywood Life. Make sure not to overdo it with cardio, to maintain muscle definition, she adds, since you need strong muscles to stay active and uninjured.

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Besides these daily workouts, Osbourne revealed she loves to get her heart rate up just by having fun, hula hooping using hoopnotica, which is a hoop dancing fitness class. Osbourne lost 70 pounds doing hoopnotica in 2013 when she appeared on the cover of SELF magazine. The story inside showed her dancing with her beloved hula hoops.

Stone emphasized keeping your drive even when you don’t see results right away is key to long-term healthy weight loss. Don’t lose hope, just keep up your consistent habits or working out, moving more every day, and eating a healthy diet: “When you first start to work out for the first time, the body kind of goes in a state of shock for the first week. You may be in a calorie deficit, but your body will hold onto water and so it’ll look like you haven’t lost any weight. It’s super important not to let that discourage you. In fact, I’d toss the scale for the first week or two. If you have access to a body composition machine you’ll see that you’re actually losing fat.”

For a plant-based healthy diet of easy-to-make delicious recipes and weight loss, check out The VegStart Diet. The 56 meals and snacks let you eat without feeling hungry and the weight will drop off. In just 2 weeks you’ll look and feel amazing.

The post Kelly Osbourne Lost 85 Pounds: Exactly How She Did It and Her Motivation appeared first on The Beet.

What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is closer to Christmas this year, starting on Sunday, December 18, and ending on December 26. Hanukkah celebrates the recovery of Jerusalem and the subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the Maccabean revolt in the 2nd century. The lighting of the menorah candle, one each night, signifies that there was only enough oil to light the temple for a single night but instead, it lasted eight days. During Hanukkah, this is honored by cooking with oil, specifically by celebrating with fried foods.

What Food Do You Serve During Hanukkah?

Traditional Hanukkah recipes are typically made with eggs, dairy, and other animal products. Some of the most popular Hanukkah recipes are:

• Potato latke
• Applesauce
• Kugel
• Sufganiyot
• Babka

Traditional Hanukkah recipes can be easily made vegan by swapping animal products for dairy alternatives, applesauce, and other vegan swaps.

Let the kids get busy singing “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel” while you put the finishing touches on these 11 Vegan Hanukkah recipes. Enjoy the holiday knowing that your dishes are both traditional and made to be fully vegan and vegetarian.

Vegan Main Dishes for Hanukkah

• Vegan Kugel

This vegan kugel recipe tastes the same, if not better, than classic recipes made with heavy cream, butter, and cheese. Kugel can be made vegan by replacing eggs with apple sauce, butter with vegan butter, and yogurt with dairy-free yogurt.

• Vegan Brisket

Guests will never know that this flame-grilled vegan brisket is actually made out of seitan. Cover the vegan brisket in a sticky, sweet BBQ sauce.

• Vegan Lemon Butter “Halibut” and Asparagus

You can never go wrong with serving vegan fish, such as this vegan lemon butter “halibut.” To emulate halibut, extra-firm silken tofu is lightly coated in a potato mixture, then fried until golden.

Vegan Side Dishes for Hanukkah

• Vegan Potato Latke

Hanukkah is incomplete without crispy vegan potato latkes. This vegan potato latke is both traditional and updated to be vegan, so you won’t use eggs or dairy.

• Meatless Matzo Ball Soup

This matzo ball soup is a vegan version of the classic recipe with simple ingredients and an amazingly healthy taste.

• Vegan Lentil Beetroot Salad

This vegan spiced lentil beetroot salad is one of the healthier options on the menu for Hanukkah. This simple vegan salad is easy to make and packed with superfoods.

Vegan Desserts for Hanukkah

• Vegan Chocolate Babka

Babka is a sweet braided dessert that is one of the most popular desserts to serve and indulge in on Hanukkah. This recipe takes a bit of time but is worth it in the end!

• Vegan Sufganiyot

The doughnut is deep-fried in oil, filled with jelly, jam, or custard, and topped with powdered sugar. These traditional donuts are usually made with butter and eggs, but we made them over to be vegan and dairy-free.

• Olive Oil Brownies

As long as you’re making applesauce for Hanukkah, you might as well whip up a batch of vegan brownies. Adding olive oil to brownies adds moisture and balances out the chocolate flavor.

• Vegan Flourless Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s nothing sweeter and tastier than warm vegan cookies fresh out of the oven. Everyone in your family will love this dessert and won’t believe that these cookies are vegan and flourless.

• Vegan Flourless Chocolate Cake

Make this vegan flourless chocolate cake for an easy and stress-free yet elegant holiday cake.

What Do You Drink During Hannukah?

Wine is a very popular alcoholic drink of choice to celebrate Hanukkah because it is a symbol of joy and happiness. Finding vegan wine is trickier than it sounds. Most wine is not vegan due to the processing and fining before it reaches the bottle.

Though not as popular, people do celebrate Hannukah with hard liquor and cocktails. Don’t stress about finding wine and hard liquor that is both vegan and kosher. Here’s a list of a few of our favorite vegan, kosher wines and liquors.

Kosher Vegan Drinks

Wine

• Covenant Red C Sauvignon Blanc 2018
• Barkan Classic Chardonnay 2017
• Koenig Pinot Gris 2019
• Binyamina Reserve Merlot 2018
• Capcanes Peraj Petita Rosat 2020

Kosher Vegan Liquor

• Ketel One Vodka
• Jack Daniel’s Whiskey, Tennessee Rye, Gentleman Jack and Single Barrel
• Empress 1908 Gin 
• Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Looking for tips to host an effortless holiday party? Check out this guide to make holiday entertaining effortless.

The post Host Hanukkah With This 2022 Guide to Easy Vegan Recipes appeared first on The Beet.

First a note about protein sources. Traditionally protein powders are either whey or soy. But now there is an explosion of plant-based protein that includes blended sources from pea protein, hemp, and other clean plant foods.

You might not expect plant-based protein powders to be as effective as whey but that’s not the case. Not only do these powders have tons of protein, but most of them also have cleaner ingredients. We picked powders with a high ratio of protein to carbs, to make sure that no matter what your goal, you’ll get plenty of protein in every sip. For more on how to pick the right protein powder for you, check out The Beet’s article on picking the best protein powders by a  sports nutritionist. Here we tell you which ones taste great and offer the healthiest mix of benefits.

So you won’t have to spend time or money searching for the best tasting plant-based protein powder, The Beet editors taste-tested 9 of the most popular powders. Not only are these expensive to buy — some of them as much as $60 for a large canister — but many of them are hard to swallow because of the chalky consistency. So we are only reviewing the ones we liked and would recommend.

We tell you which powders to mix with water, which ones are better when you add them to a smoothie and which are better mixed into your oatmeal. You can even add them o your pancake or muffin batter! All the powders are either soy, hemp, pea or rice-based. To be fair, we made sure the powders were all vanilla flavored to make it a level playing field. But often the chocolate or other flavors are actually tastier — so it’s up to you when purchasing.

For all the Beet Meters, check out the best vegan products. 

Overall Winner:

1.TB12 Vanilla Plant-Based Protein

Tom Brady’s TB12 pea protein powder consists of simple ingredients with no additives. For anyone who is allergic to soy or nuts, TB12’s pea protein-based powder is a great option. It’s hard to say no to this powder with 24 grams of protein. Don’t hide this powder in a smoothie, mix it with water and you will immediately see a thick consistency resembling a vanilla milkshake. Not only does it look like a milkshake, but it tastes like it too. TB12 recommends drinking this powder up to 20 minutes after a workout for the best recovery. You have to order this powder on the TB12 website since it isn’t available in stores or on Amazon. Less than $2 per serving!

2. Momentous Absolute Zero

Momentous protein powder is a combination of pea and rice protein concentrate. Testers liked the initial scent of mint and thought it was refreshing. This powder is perfect for anyone who likes sweeter drinks. Momentous powders are NSF International Certified for Sport, which means the product label is 100% accurate and there are no banned substances present in this powder. This is one of the pricier protein powders at $60 a tub but is worth it for athletes looking for a clean and effective post-workout powder. We recommend either mixing with water or adding to a smoothie for a more nutrient-dense drink. The priciest powder of the bunch at $3 per serving.

3. Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

The name of this powder says it all. Nuzest is the cleanest protein powder since it is made out of only 3 simple ingredients: Pea protein isolate, natural vanilla flavor, and thaumatin (a low-calorie sweetener). For $45, you are supposed to get 20 servings out of one container, but at a glance that didn’t seem accurate. This high protein, low carb powder is perfect to blend with plant-based milk and ice. The consistency is smooth and adds thickness to any protein shake.

4. Power Life By Tony Horton

Fitness guru Tony Horton has a new line of products under the Power Life brand and his protein powder tastes clean, light and drinkable, even without having to add it to a smoothie. Sip it for 15 grams of plant-based protein from a unique blend of Pumpkin, Sunflower and Flax seeds and Mung Beans. One note: Keep shaking or stirring it since the powder settles to the bottom of your water bottle in minutes, making the last sips taste a little grainy. It’s pricey at $70 for a 14-ounce container but with 90 calories this is a good choice for anyone trying to watch their weight.

5. Garden of Life

Garden of Life is made of pea, buckwheat, amaranth sprout, and brown rice. We didn’t love the green color of the powder or the way it smelled but once we mixed it with water, it tasted surprisingly good. Garden of Life is the easiest to mix with water, plan-based milk or in a smoothie. The vanilla flavor isn’t overpowering so you can add this to any combination of smoothies and not be overwhelmed by the taste of vanilla. And it’s only $1.20 per scoop!

6. Tone It Up Plant-Based Protein Vanilla

Tone It Up protein powder is a blend of sunflower seeds and pea protein. The minute we opened the container, everyone loved the smell of this powder. Tone It Up is known to be a great addition to baked goods. The next time you make your protein muffins, add Tone It Up to the mix. We don’t suggest adding this powder with just water but instead a smoothie with fruits and veggies.

7. Elevate Plant-Based Performance Protein

Elevate is a pea and hemp protein-based powder that also is made with sweet potato powder. For anyone looking to convert from whey protein powders, Elevate is the plant-based protein for you. This powder is meant to be used in beverages such as smoothies. The thin consistency doesn’t mix well with water and becomes chalky. If you aren’t in the mood for a protein smoothie, add a scoop to your pancake batter. For a complete recipe check out Elevate’s Chocolate Chip Banana Protein Pancakes. This powder is another affordable choice at $1.60 a scoop.

8. Vega Protein & Greens

The base of Vega is pea protein, brown rice protein, and sacha inchi (a seed eaten like a nut) protein. One serving of Vega has only 80 calories and 15g of protein. Vega’s protein powder is a great choice for anyone who struggles to get enough greens in their diet. The proteins are combined with alfalfa powder, spinach powder, broccoli powder, and organic kale powder giving you 2 servings of veggies in one scoop. The taste of this protein was described as “artificial” whereas others thought it tasted like birthday cake. We recommend adding this into a smoothie, but luckily all you have to add is fruit since Vega has the greens covered. This low-cal powder won’t break the bank at $1.20 a scoop.

9. Vivo Perform

Vivo Perform is the most superfood-packed protein powder of this bunch. Athletes will appreciate this protein powder made of pea protein, hemp protein, plant-based BCAA (branched-chain amino acids), reishi mushrooms, acai berries, lucuma fruit powder, maca powder, and turmeric extract. Vivo Perform is $59 on Amazon so go straight to their website for a cheaper price at $51 for the pouch pictured below.

With 25g of protein and a complete amino acid profile helps athletes to build, perform, recover, and absorb. If you want a quick protein drink after a workout, use a shaker bottle when mixing or this powder will stick to the sides of the cup. In the mood for a protein-filled breakfast? Add to your oatmeal or smoothie bowl with this recipe.

10. PlantFusion Complete Protein

PlantFusion is a blend of peas, artichokes, algae, and superfoods. The deep yellow-gold coloring of PlantFusion’s protein powder set this brand apart from the rest. Some testers found the flavor wasn’t overwhelming, making it a great addition to a smoothie, whereas others felt the powder was sweet. For those of you who aren’t a fan of Stevia, buy the natural, no-stevia blend. This protein powder is low in fat, and carbs, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to lose weight while still getting enough protein (21g a serving). PlantFusion’s powder has a sweetness not everyone enjoyed since Stevia is an ingredient. $1.20 a scoop, makes this a deal!

Top 10 Sources of Plant-Based Protein According to a Nutritionist

1. Seitan

Protein: 21 grams in ⅓ cup (1 ounce) Seitan isn’t as popular as other proteins, but it should be! Made from wheat gluten, its texture resembles ground meat. It’s often used in pre-made veggie burgers or meatless nuggets. Seitan has a savory taste, like mushrooms or chicken, so it works well in dishes that call for an umami flavor. With a hearty texture, seitan can be the star of practically any vegan main dish. Add it to stir-fries, sandwiches, burritos, burgers, or stews. Like tofu, seitan will take on the flavor of any marinade or sauce.

2. Tempeh

Protein: 16 grams in 3 ounces If you like a protein with a bit of bite, add tempeh to your list. Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a slightly nutty flavor and is pressed into a block. Most varieties include some sort of grains, such as barley or millet. Not only is tempeh a plant-based source of protein, but the fermentation process also creates good-for-your-gut probiotics. You can cut tempeh right off the block and use it as the base for a sandwich or pan-fry it with some sauce. Or, crumble, heat, and make it the star of your next taco night.

3. Lentils

Protein: 13 grams in ½ cup cooked Lentils come in multiple varieties–red, yellow, green, brown, black. Regardless of the type lentils are small but mighty nutritional powerhouses. They pack a good amount of protein as well as iron, folate, and fiber. When cooked, brown lentils retain their texture and can be the base for a grain bowl or make a hearty substitute for ground meat in meatballs, lasagna, tacos or Bolognese. Red lentils are a bit softer and make a nice add-in for a hearty soup, chili, or stew.

4. Hemp Seeds

Protein: 10 grams in 3 tablespoons Hemp seeds are a tender and nutty seed, derived from the hemp plant. They contain good amounts of omega-3s, iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. They are also a solid source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to keep your digestive tract healthy and humming. Because they pack a double whammy of protein and healthy fats, hemp seeds can help satisfy hunger, preventing those embarrassing stomach growls as you slog your way to your lunch break. Add them to your morning smoothie or sprinkle them on top of yogurt, oatmeal, or even a salad.

5. Tofu

Protein: 9 grams in 3 ounces (⅕ of a block) Made from coagulated soybeans, tofu is the most popular plant-based protein. Soy is one of the only meatless “complete” proteins, meaning that it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body can’t make but needs for muscle and immune function. With 15% of your daily calcium needs, tofu is also a good replacement for dairy.

6. Edamame

Protein: 9 grams of protein in ½ cup This sushi appetizer is a nutrient powerhouse, so eat it anytime. Edamame is really just another name for soybeans in their pods. Let’s list off some stats–a small ½-cup serving of edamame has 9 grams of protein, 15% of your daily vitamin C, 10% of your daily iron and 16% of your daily fiber. Keep a bag of edamame in your freezer to serve as a fun-to-eat side dish or opt for the shelled variety to toss into salads or a grain bowl.

7. Quinoa

Protein: 8 grams per cup (cooked) Quinoa is an ancient grain and since it’s gluten-free a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Add it to your burger recipe to create filling texture, or instead of meat in your taco or burrito. Quinoa is among the healthiest foods on the planet, delivering phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory qualities, so keep it in your pantry for any meal that needs a filling grain. Just remember to soak it and rinse before cooking to get rid of any bitter taste.

8. Black Beans

Protein: 7 grams in ½ cup (canned) Eating beans on the regular might as well be a prerequisite for a plant-based diet. Not only are canned black beans inexpensive, but they also contribute 10% of your daily iron and 25% of your daily fiber to your diet. For less than $1 a can, beans can be the star of tacos, quesadillas, salads, soups, burgers, or dips.

9. Amaranth

Protein: 6 grams in ⅔ cup (cooked) Chances are you’ve never cooked amaranth. But you should, since this tiny, gluten- free grain is packed with almost 30% of your daily fiber and 20% of your daily iron. Cook it like a traditional grain to yield a soft, porridge-like texture. Many people add amaranth to other a hot breakfast cereal mixture, like oats and quinoa. It also pops like popcorn. Toss it in a pot with some oil and wait for it to pop up into a nutritious snack.

10. Peas

Protein: 5 grams in ⅔ cup If peas were one of your most hated veggies as a kid, it’s time to give them another chance. These green beans are a great low-calorie protein to keep in your freezer. Sure, they don’t always taste great when steamed or microwaved (who wants to eat mushy, overcooked peas?), but they do blend well into a yummy puree that can be slathered on toast. To amp up the flavor, add some lemon juice or mint to your mix before you blend.

The Top 20 Veggies with the Most Protein

1. Soy Beans

Soybeans are a legume but they are such a great source of protein that we had to lead the veggie list with it. There is more protein in just one ounce of soybeans than a cup of sliced avocado! 1 cup equals Protein – 28.6g Calories – 298 Carbs – 17.1g Fiber – 10.3g Calcium – 175mg

2. Peas

If the pod, that peas are grown in, is split down the middle, that is an indicator they are ripe. Seeds inside the pod vary and can be green, white or yellow. 1 cup equals Protein – 8.6g Calories – 134 Carbs – 25g Fiber – 8.8g Calcium – 43.2 mg

3. Corn

Fresh corn is a great source of energy for those who like to stay active. Protein isn’t all that corn has to offer. Corn provides the body with potassium and B vitamins. 1 cup equals Protein – 5.4g Calories – 177 Carbs – 123g Fiber – 4.6g Calcium – 4.9mg

4. Artichoke Hearts

Artichokes are part of the sunflower family. The fiber in artichoke hearts is great for supporting digestion. 1 cup equals Protein – 4.8g Calories – 89 Carbs – 20g Fiber – 14.4g Calcium – 35.2mg

5. Asparagus

If not properly stored, Asparagus tends to go bad quickly, To elongate freshness, put damp paper towels around the stems, or place the entire asparagus bunch in a cup of water (like flowers) to maintain freshness longer. 1 cup equals Protein – 4.4g Calories – 39.6 Carbs – 7.4g Fiber – 3.6g Calcium – 41.4mg

6. Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts have more Vitamin C than an orange. If your Brussel sprouts have a rancid odor that is an indicator you overcooked them. The smell occurs because the sprouts are composed of a great amount of sulforaphane. 1 cup equals Protein – 4g Calories – 56.2 Carbs – 40g Fiber – 4g Calcium – 56.2mg

7. Broccoli

If you are trying to lose weight broccoli is a great addition to your diet because it consists of 90 water and is also high in fiber. 1 cup (chopped) equals Protein – 3.8g Calories – 54.6Carbs – 11.2g Fiber – 5.2g Calcium – 62.4mg

8. Mustard Greens

Mustard greens provide the body with tons of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and fiber. Adding steamed mustard greens into your diet has been known to lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. 1 cup equals Protein – 3.2 g Calories – 21 Carbs – 2.9g Fiber – 2.8g Calcium – 104mg

9. Avocado

Avocado is commonly mistaken as a vegetable but it is technically a fruit. This fruit had to be included in our veggie list because it isn’t just tasty but super nutritious. Avocados are packed with protein but they are a great source of potassium and fiber. Avocados are a great addition to any salad, sandwich and even smoothie! 1 cup equals Protein – 3.0 g Calories – 240 Carbs – 12.8 g Fiber – 10.1g Calcium – 18 mg

Onions are an unappreciated food hero since they provide 20 percent of your daily Vitamin C and deliver an abundance of antioxidants that can reduce inflammation. 1 cup (chopped) equals Protein – 2.9g Calories – 92.4 Carbs – 21.3g Fiber – 2.9g Calcium – 46.2mg

11. Beets

The entire beetroot is edible including the leaves which contain loads of vitamin A, calcium, iron and potassium. Beetroot is high in sugar but is considered one of the most nutritious veggies used in salads and soups. 1 cup equals Protein – 2.8 g Calories – 74.8 Carbs – 17g Fiber – 3.4g Calcium – 27.2mg

12. Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms are commonly seen in Chinese dishes. They grow best in a controlled environment indoors. Oyster mushrooms have so many nutrients to offer besides protein such as iron, calcium, zinc and folic acid. 1 cup (raw and sliced) equals Protein – 2.8g Calories – 37 Carbs – 5.6g Fiber – 2.0g Calcium – 2.6mg

13. Bok Choy

Bok Choy is a member of the mustard family. One of the oldest cultivated vegetables in the world, Bok Choy means “white vegetable” and is a great source of vitamins A, C, B6, K, and E, magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese, and calcium. 1 cup equals Protein – 2.7 g Calories – 20.4 Carbs – 3.1g Fiber – 1.7g Calcium – 158mg

14. Green Beans

Green beans are a great source of vitamins B, C and K, and minerals such as magnesium, iron and manganese. Green beans should be cooked before eating, to destroy lectins. China is the biggest grower of green beans in the world, exporting over 15 million tons a year. 1 cup equals Protein – 1.8 g Calories – 31 Carbs – 7 g Fiber – 2.7 g Calcium – 37 mg

15. Cauliflower

The most nutritious way to consume cauliflower is steamed. Don’t get intimidated by orange, purple or green cauliflower. All three types have the same benefits as white cauliflower. 1 cup equals Protein – 2.2g Calories – 28.6 Carbs – 5.4g Fiber – 2.8g Calcium – 19.8mg

16. Turnip

You can eat the entire plant, root and leaves. The turnip root is high in vitamin C and the greens are high in vitamins A, C, E, B6 and K, believed to counter inflammation. Add turnip roots to soup, or mash them. Add them to salads. 1 cup equals Protein – 1.6g Calories – 28.8 Carbs – 6.3g Fiber – 5.0g Calcium – 197mg

17. Alfalfa Sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts might be little but they sure are powerful. Plus they’re quick and easy to grow. They are loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Iron and more. But because they have been known to carry bacteria, make sure to fully cook alfalfa sprouts if you have a fragile immune system or are pregnant. 1 cup equals Protein – 1.3 g Calories – 8 Carbs – 0.7 g Fiber – 0.6 g Calcium – 10.6 mg

18. Tomatoes

Keep your tomatoes fresher for longer by storing them stem down. When exposed to sunlight the Vitamin C in a tomato will diminish. 1 cup equals Protein – 1.3g Calories – 26.8 Carbs – 5.8g Fiber – 1.8g Calcium – 14.9mg

19. Zucchini

Zucchini has an abundance of potassium, even more than a banana! The reason zucchini isn’t high in calories is that it is made up of 95% water. 1 cup equals Protein – 1.2g Calories – 28.8 Carbs – 7.1g Fiber – 2.5g Calcium – 23.4 mg

20. Spinach

Spinach is filled with Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, fiber and protein. The best part about spinach is you can sauté it, blend it or eat it raw! Spinach is best grown in rainy and cool weather. 1 cup equals Protein – 0.9g Calories – 6.4 Carbs – 1.0 g Fiber – 0.6g Calcium – 27.7 mg

Top 15 Legumes and Beans

1. Soy Beans

Soybeans are a legume but they are such a great source of protein that we had to lead the veggie list with it. There is more protein in just one ounce of soybeans than a cup of sliced avocado! 1 cup equals Protein – 28.6g Calories – 298 Carbs – 17.1g Fiber – 10.3g Calcium – 175mg

2. Lentils

Lentils are the only beans that don’t have to be soaked before preparing. Lentils can be the star of any dish that needs heft, from soups to burgers. Next time it’s Taco Tuesday, try out lentil tacos—they pack a protein punch. 1 cup equals Protein – 17.9 g Calories – 230 Carbs – 39.9 g Fiber – 15.6 g Calcium – 37.6 mg

3. White Beans

Dried white beans can be stored for up to three years in a dry, room-temperature location. Which means you can keep them around whenever you need a staple for soups or stews. 1 cup equals Protein – 17.4 g Calories – 249 Carbs – 44.9 g Fiber -11.3 g Calcium – 161 mg

4. Edamame

Edamame is a great snack to keep in your freezer. Microwave them and spice them up with a sprinkle of salt, chili powder and red pepper flakes. You’ll be enjoying a protein-filled snack that is better than chips. 1 cup (cooked and shelled) equals Protein – 16.9 g Calories – 189 Carbs – 15.8g Fiber – 8.1g Calcium – 97.6mg

5. Cranberry Beans

As you cook cranberry beans, the unique specks of red that give these legumes their name vanish. Boil the cranberry beans, blend into a spread and use as a delicious dip with veggies for a great protein snack. 1 cup equals Protein – 16.5 g Calories – 241 Carbs – 43.3 g Fiber – 15.2 g Calcium – 88.5 mg

6. Split Peas

Don’t confuse split peas with green peas. Split peas are dried and—surprise— split. Unlike their sweet cousins, these peas must be boiled for 45 minutes before they’re ready to eat. Make Ina Garten’s easy Parker’s Split Pea Soup for a protein-packed lunch. 1 cup cooked Protein – 16.3 g Calories – 229 Carbs – 41.1 g Fiber – 16.3 g Calcium – 27.4 mg

7. Kidney Beans

Make sure to soak these beans overnight to get rid of the toxic proteins in the raw bean that is harmful to people and animals. then cook thoroughly before eating. Soaking and cooking the beans will get rid of the harmful proteins. Then, dig in! 1 cup equals Protein – 15.3 g Calories – 225 Carbs – 40.4 g Fiber – 13.1 g Calcium – 49.6 mg

8. Black Beans

Black “turtle” bean is the technical name for this crowd favorite. The “turtle” part comes from the physical appearance of the shiny exterior shell that protects the bean. 1 cup equals Protein – 15.2 g Calories – 227 Carbs – 40.8 g Fiber – 15 g Calcium – 46.4 mg

9. Navy Beans

As you can see, navy beans are clearly not navy. So where did the name come from? These beans were such an important part of the U.S. Navy diet in the beginning of the 20th century that the beans were named after them. Anchors aweigh! 1 cup equals Protein – 15 g Calories – 255 Carbs – 47.4 g Calcium – 126 mg

10. Pinto Beans

Canned pinto beans aren’t just a source of protein, but also major fiber. Pinto beans are often used as refried beans because they fall apart when steamed. 1 cup equals Protein – 15.4g Calories – 245 Carbs – 44.8g Fiber – 15.4g Calcium – 78.6mg

11. Chickpeas

What’s better than hummus for boosting protein? Not much. Just half a cup delivers 10 grams of protein, which is a good percentage of your daily needs: ranging from 45 to 65 grams, depending on weight, gender and activity level. 1 cup equals Protein – 14.5g Calories – 269 Carbs – 45g Fiber – 12.5 g Calcium – 80.4 mg

12. Lima Beans

Lima beans are often called “butter beans” because of their buttery taste. Famously used in succotash, lima beans can also be used boost the taste of a hearty vegetable soup, or roast them with sweet potatoes as a side dish. 1 cup equals Protein – 14.7 g Calories – 216 Carbs – 39.3g Fiber – 13.2g Calcium – 32mg

13. Mung Beans

Mung beans lack a lot of flavor but are great to add to any dish for crunch and protein. Trade your chickpea-based falafel for a mung bean option to switch things up. Fact: Just Eggs uses mung beans for protein! 1 cup equals Protein – 14.2 g Calories – 212 Carbs – 38.7 g Fiber – 15.4 g Calcium – 54.5 mg

14. Fava Beans

Take the fava beans out of the pod since experts don’t recommend eating that part. For freshest taste, only separate the beans from the pods when you ‘re ready to eat them. 1 cup equals Protein – 12.9 g Calories – 185 Carbs – 33.2 g Fiber – 9.18 g Calcium – 61.2 mg

15. Peas

Who knew little old peas pack a major protein punch? One cup of peas has more protein than one average-sized egg. Yep, you can make a bet and win it. 1 cup equals Protein – 8.6g Calories – 134 Carbs – 25g Fiber – 8.8 g Calcium – 43.2 mg

The post Your Guide to the Best Vegan Protein Powders. We Tasted 10 Bestsellers appeared first on The Beet.

Love, Corn is a dry roasted corn snack that comes in three flavors: sea salt, habanero chili, and smoked bbq, and pack a serious punch of delicious savory. (Currently eating the sea salt flavor as I write this). You can find these easily-accessible snacks at Whole Foods, Target, Walmart, ShopRite, CVS and online at Amazon, which makes them a great option when you need a bite on the road. Grab them in individual pouches, which are perfect to throw in a tote bag for now or later when you’re on the go.

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Love, Corn is focused on providing snacks that are made of clean and simple ingredients. The ingredients are as simple as it gets. The sea salt flavor has three ingredients: non-GMO corn, sea salt, and sunflower oil. The company believes that “delicious food can change eating habits.” Rather than eating empty calories, this low-calorie snack has protein, good fibers, and good carbs.

If you find yourself loving the kernels as much as me, use roasted corn to add crunch to your salads, bowls, and soups. Next time you make your vegan taco bowl, sprinkle some of the habanero chili for a spicy and salty element. After discovering Love, Corn in the pantry at work, it has become a necessity when grocery-shopping. Now I can enjoy them at work or add them to my dinners at home.

The post Love, Corn is the Vegan Snack for When You’re On the Go appeared first on The Beet.

More and more brands are coming out with nut-based cheeses that taste just like the real thing. Throw away all your preexisting notions about vegan cheeses, because we have the 411 on which ones are a must-have on your grocery list and which ones are best left on the shelf.

We taste-tested all the vegan shredded mozzarella, cheddar and parmesan cheese we could get our hands-on. A note to consider about these cheeses is that they aren’t particularly good for you, since they are often high in saturated fat, but they’re healthier than regular cheese, and if you’re seeking a diet that is free of animal product, these do the trick.

The cheddar flavors we taste-tested were our favorite overall, but the mozzarellas and parmesans weren’t far behind. We love cheese, and nine dairy-free kinds later, we found out which ones are best as a garnish and which ones to drown your nachos in.

For all the Beet Meters, check out the best vegan products. 

Overall Winner:

1. Violife Just Cheddar Shreds

We all love Violife. It’s simply the best all-rounder in the bunch. Eat it out of the bag or melt it on tortilla chips. The consistency is so similar to real cheddar you won’t even notice it’s dairy-free. Try to resist inhaling the whole bag because with every serving comes six grams of saturated fat. Not the worst, but not exactly healthy either!

2. Violife Just Like Parmesan Wedge

As parm lovers, we were extremely pleasantly surprised by this little wedge of non-dairy cheese. It grates easily and melts into your pasta like the real deal. If you like the sharp bold flavor of real parm, you may find this one a little subtle, so add some salt to make up for that. Sprinkle lightly because this has the most sat fat of any cheese we tested.

3. Follow Your Heart Parmesan

This is about as similar to the real thing as you can find in a non-dairy parm. We love it on simple pasta dishes as a topper, but again, don’t go crazy here since it’s made of palm oil and has 18 percent of your daily value of sat fat per ounce, plus it’s super high in sodium. So sprinkle, don’t dump it, onto your pasta.

4. So Delicious Mozzarella Style Shreds

The soft texture and taste of this mozzarella mimic the real thing. We loaded this mozzarella on pizza crust and after popping it in the oven the cheese became so melty and gooey, it’s a great topping for any at-home snack. This cheese needs a little more time to melt than the rest but the wait is worth it.

5. So Delicious Cheddar

This cheese is the easiest to melt because of how finely shredded it comes. Add a sprinkle on top of an enchilada for an extra layer of flavor. But don’t melt too much of it or it will start to have an unpleasant smell. And since it’s made out of coconut milk and palm oil, which are both high in saturated fat, enjoy in moderation.

6. Daiya Cheddar Style Shreds

We loved this one for its meltability and the fact that it isn’t as big a sat fat bomb as some of the other cheeses on the list. Try this on chips or as a grilled cheese sandwich option,  since it has an old-fashioned shredded cheese taste and sticky texture, in a good way.

7. Follow Your Heart Fiesta Blend

This cheese stands up to being eaten by the handful or spread on nachos, veggie chili or baked potato. You don’t even need to heat it up to enjoy it. In fact, when heated we smelled a slight cheesy odor — so we actually preferred it room temperature. At 18 percent of your daily value of sat fat per ounce, use this cheese sparingly since it has palm fruit oil, which is one of the least healthy oils.

8. Parmela Creamery Sharp Cheddar Style

Of all the cheeses we tested, Parmela melted like an old-fashioned cheddar block from the farm and gripped the top of the nacho chips in a way that made them stick together. In other words, we loved it.

9. Good Planet Parmesan

This cheese has the best “parmesan” resemblance, but it didn’t melt quite as well as we’d expected. The texture seemed real but the taste was less sharp than the actual parm flavor. Our testers noted that it has an aftertaste so don’t eat this parm alone — sprinkle it on a tart puttanesca sauce.

10. Daiya Mozzarella

Daiya is a mixed bag when it comes to the melting and tasting of their mozzarella since the more it melts the more it smells. So if you like either an aromatic cheese or you don’t need to melt your filling too much, this is a good choice. Add it to a quesadilla to get that gooey cheesy middle without much heat required. Anything over 10 percent of your sat fat for the day gets points off, and this one is 12 percent.

The post The 10 Best Dairy-Free Shredded Cheeses appeared first on The Beet.

But before you hit the stores, whether it’s online or at Whole Foods or Sprouts, we want to help you sort the best from the rest. We realize that with this Tsunami of plant-based products, it can be tough to not feel overwhelmed. That’s why we are bringing you our favorites of the week, so you can decide what to try and buy and what to skip.

For a helpful list of products by category, we have created the Beet Meter, where we rate each product by taste and health, using a set of criteria that was created by an RD, who came up with fair and objective attributes that tell you what is the best, healthiest and tastiest plant-based chicken, non-dairy cream cheese, vegan cheese and more. And not to be dogmatic about it, we welcome your ratings as well, so you can share your favorite plant-based products and let others know what to buy when they are adding more meatless and dairy-free alternatives to their shopping carts.

Here are the latest plant-based products to add to your grocery list or cart, from Lucy Danziger, Stephanie McClain, Hailey Welch, Caitlin Mucerino, Max Rabb, and Louisa Richards – aka the editors of The Beet –– since we are living the plant-based life and want to make it easier for you to do it too! Have a great, healthy plant-based week, from our kitchen to yours!

What’s your current favorite plant-based product? Let us know on our Facebook page.

Lucy’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

Dr. Steven Gundry MD‘s Honey Nut or Polyphenol Macadamia bars

When you worry that your gut microbiome is out of whack, and your energy is flagging and you don’t want to eat a bunch of garbage (like the salt and vinegar potato chips that I hear calling my name from the kitchen cabinet) the last thing you want to do is eat something highly processed with preservatives and added sugar, salt or unnecessary oils. But how to choose a snack that won’t send blood sugar soaring and your gut microbiome into a state of chaos by punching up the bad bacteria that tips the balance in the wrong direction? That’s where Dr. Steven Gundry comes in.

Author of The Plant-Paradox, and most recently The Energy Paradox: What to do When Your Get-Up-and-Go Has got Up and Gone and creator of the Lectin-free diet (aka the Plant Paradox Diet), Dr. Gundry understands that not all “healthy” food is created equal – which is why he has launched his own line of snack bars that provide exactly the nutrients your body needs to fuel up without the junk that causes it to power down, energy-wise.

Our gut health is tied to inflammation in the body, our risk of heart disease, and even our moods. When we eat more plant-based food, the billions of microbes in the gut respond and help our bodies metabolize that fiber and healthy nutrients, lowering the inflammation and even our bad LDL cholesterol. (When we eat foods that aggravate our gut, whether it’s sugar, meat, or in some of our cases, lectins found in certain fruits and vegetables and nightshades) the inflammation goes up and can actually make us bloated, gain weight and feel low-energy, which is why he calls it the Plant Paradox. For more on these types of “anti-nutrients” you may want to learn about whether to be concerned with lectins, oxalates, and tannins.

So that’s a long way of saying why we should care about these bars. But the reason to love or enjoy Dr. Gundry’s snack bars is that they taste clean and satisfying, just sweet enough to hit the spot, without that cloying added sugar to burn your throat and leave you listless in a short amount of time.

The Honey Nut Bar has is made with real Manuka honey (so vegans will want to skip), macadamias, pecans, almonds, tocopherols, and contains 5 grams of protein, 8 grams of fiber, and 4 grams of sugar (from the honey. The Polyphenol Macadamia  is made with unsweetened dark chocolate, polyphenol-rich olive oil, macadamias, cocoa powder, hemp seeds and contains 7 grams of protein, 12 grams of fiber and 0 grams added sugar.

Try the bars, and if you’re curious, try more of his products. I may not be one of his “super fans” (I know people who are and swear by his approach to avoiding lectin foods), but since I happen to love tomatoes and eggplants and many lectin-containing fruit and vegetables, including nightshades, which he warns against. But I can enjoy his bars for a mid-morning snack and you will too. Guarantee it.  You can purchase Dr. Gundry’s Bars here. 

Stephanie’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

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Gigantic! Smashing Pumpkin Sortasweet Plant-Based Candy Bar

It’s no secret that I’m a loyal fan of Gigantic!’s plant-based candy bars. Not only are they vegan and strike the perfect balance of sweet and savory, but they also come in the ideal portion that leaves you wanting just a crumb more.

This fall, Gigantic!’s offerings are only getting better with the recently-debuted Smashing Pumpkin flavor. I was lucky enough to try these ahead of time and let me tell you – this flavor encapsulates the joy of being a child on Halloween. The taste is something I can only describe as the smell of the inside of a trick-or-treating pillowcase stuffed full of candy after a successful neighborhood haul. Smashing Pumpkin captures the nostalgia of Halloweens past with a forward-looking ingredient list that’s totally plant-based and contains no animal products.

Check out this new flavor in time for fall or, if pumpkin isn’t your thing, the Banana Pecan, Almond Horchata, Salted Peanut, or Hazelnut Café are all equally as incredible.

You can purchase Gigantic! plant-based candy bars on the brand’s website.

Louisa’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

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Bol Salad Jar

The bol salads come in reusable jars with a biodegradable wooden fork inside and all you need to do is empty out the dressing and shake it up. It’s convenience food made healthy. I tried the Japanese Rainbow Slaw Salad at our local coffee shop in the UK and it hit the spot for a filling nutrient-dense lunch. The Asian-inspired recipe contains brightly colored veg, black rice, and turtle beans for a good balance of macros and is dressed with delicious soy, white miso, and ginger sauce. With 12 grams of [rotein and only 280 calories, I think this is a great choice for lunch.

Bol Foods are available online here https://bolfoods.com/

Caitlin’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

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Sweet Loren’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

I have tried my fair share of plant-based, gluten-free cookies and nothing is as good as Sweet Loren’s. My non-vegan sister actually introduced me to this brand and it’s now become the only cookie brand my family buys at the grocery store.

Sweet Loren’s cookies are made with cleaner ingredients and I personally love that I can enjoy a sweet treat without worrying about what’s in them. The chocolate chip flavor tastes just like a homemade cookie but healthier. These are the softest gluten-free cookies I have ever tried and they have the perfect hint of sweetness from the chocolate chunks you get in every bite. If you love a soft, chewy cookie, bake it for 11-13 minutes.

Besides chocolate chip, Sweet Loren’s also has 3 other flavors including Fudgy Brownie, Sugar and Oatmeal Cranberry. All flavors are gluten-free, plant-based, Non-GMO certified as well as peanut and tree nut-free. If you are a fan of raw cookie dough, Sweet Loren’s has a range of raw cookie doughs that you can eat without having to pre-heat the oven.

To buy Sweet Loren’s cookies, click here. 

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Hailey’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

Every weekend I make a trip to my local farmer’s market to stock up on fresh produce for the week and last weekend I stumbled across a vendor called The Complete Burger which sold vegan and gluten-free veggie burgers made with local organic Shiitake mushrooms, organic red quinoa, lentils, black beans, red onions, organic garlic, gluten-free oat flour, organic ground flaxseed, olive oil, spices.

These burgers are hands-down my favorite vegan veggie burger I’ve ever tasted. The patty is hearty, wide, and durable unlike most frozen patties that are small in size, thin, and oftentimes bind with breadcrumbs to stay in one piece. However, this product is as natural and organic as it gets, and aside from the appearance and texture, the taste is perfectly savory, earthy, and everything you want from a fresh veggie burger.

I make my burgers in the toaster oven if I’m short on time but I like them best cooked on the grill with slight chard marks for extra crispiness. Then, I top it with the classics, sauteed onions, sliced tomatoes, and avocados, and I make a homemade vegan spicy aioli sauce to top off the masterpiece. If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, veggie burger made without any preservatives with a homemade flair, then try this patty for yourself and you won’t go back to your go-to store-bought patty, because I can’t. I don’t want a veggie burger any other way from now on. Not to mention, each box comes with six patties, perfect if you’re serving guests, family, or want tasty meals throughout the week.

To purchase your vegan vegetable burgers, visit the Complete Burger website.

Max’s Favorite Plant-Based Product of the Week

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HungryRoot Superfood Almond Butter

HungryRoot’s supercharged almond butter is the perfect small breakfast or a quick snack for any day of the week. After getting my first pouch of this nutritionally charged almond butter, I was hooked. The almond butter recipe contains chia seeds, Gogi berries, and hemp seeds to maximize the nutritional value of this delicious food. Packed with extra fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants, the Superfood Almond Butter is one of the best additions to breakfast I can think of.

The Superfood Almond Butter makes for a perfect addition to morning smoothies. The flavor mixes extremely well with any of your typical fruit smoothie options, and it will give your morning that boost of vitamins and nutrition that everyone needs. If you aren’t a smoothie person, don’t worry. HungryRoot’s almond butter product is perfect as a solo spread for toast or to eat with an apple or banana. It can also work perfectly as a topping to an oatmeal bowl. No matter which way you choose to use it, you and your body won’t be disappointed.

Check it out on HungryRoot’s website here.

The post The Best Plant-Based Products to Buy This Week, From The Editors appeared first on The Beet.

Whether your family is vegan or just one person is lactose intolerant, these dairy-free pizzas will be a crowd favorite. Still, some of these are so high in calories, salt, and sat-fat that they can hardly be considered a healthy option. That’s why here at The Beet, we decided to rate vegan pizzas for both taste and health, and let you know which ones are not only good but good for you. Keep in mind that some of the serving sizes are small, and eating a whole pie could set you back nearly half the calories of the entire day.

Why You Should Stop Eating Cheese

Cheese is among the hardest foods to give up when going plant-based. But now, you do not need to stop eating pizza to give up cheese. Eating dairy presents serious health risks that even make your day-to-day life more difficult. Dairy is highly inflammatory, causing unnecessary joint and muscle pains.

Dairy consumption increases the risk of several cancers even when consumed in moderation. One study found that one serving a day was associated with a 30 percent elevated risk of developing breast cancer. Loma Linda researchers found that drinking milk increases the risk of prostate cancer by 60 percent. 

Is Pizza Vegan?

Americans eat 3 billion pizzas every year, according to the National Association of Pizza Operators. While the vast majority of those consumers are eating dairy cheese, new brands have developed plant-based cheeses that both vegans and non-vegans will love. But how? Vegan cheeses are made from a variety of ingredients including plant-based milk from cashews or other nuts or proprietary protein blends.

Check out our comprehensive list to see what vegan frozen pizza sounds best for your tastes!
For all the Beet Meters, check out the best vegan products. 

Alpha Foods Plant-Based Mozzarella Pizza

Anyone looking for an easy, cheap, and delicious plant-based pizza should shop for Alpha Foods. The cheese itself ranks better than most others we tasted. Overall, this pizza is a winner because it has 9 grams of protein while not being too high in calories. Keep these stocked in your freezer.

Calories 390

Total Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 10g

Protein 8g

Alpha Foods Plant-Based Buffalo Chicken Pizza

This buffalo-sauce pizza has a tangy flavor that you’ll love if chick’n wings are your jam. Topped with vegan chicken, the pizza offers 15 grams of protein per serving. We love the fact that the dairy-free mozzarella isn’t too heavy or overwhelming. The thin-crust pie provides one of the most delicious plant-based pizzas on the market.

Calories 470

Total Fat 24g, Saturated Fat 8g

Protein 12g

American Flatbread Vegan Harvest

Vegan flatbreads can be hard to come by but luckily, American Flatbread has us covered. The Vegan Harvest flatbread tastes fresh and is restaurant-quality pizza. The cheese alternative was perfectly melty and creamy. We especially loved the garlic and fresh herbs that were all over the flatbread.

Calories 520

Total Fat 18g, Saturated Fat 8g

Protein 12g

Amy’s Gluten-Free Roasted Vegetable Pizza

Amy’s has never failed to make a delicious and filling pizza, especially for the gluten-free crowd. The crust has the most similar texture to actual pizza. We love this one the most, for the taste and the fact that it has an artisanal look to it as if you might have actually made it yourself. After eating the whole thing, you feel like you got your veggie intake for the day.

Calories 430

Total Fat 20g, Saturated Fat 2.5g

Protein 7g

Amy’s Roasted Vegetable Pizza

Wait we said we’d stop recommending Amy’s but we wanted to make sure you knew that the veggie one has a regular crust option — so if you have no problem with gluten and you want the closest thing to a thin-crust California-style pizza, dig in, my friends. We plan to keep this on permanent order from our favorite Insta-Cart source.

Calories 290

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 1.5g

Protein 7g

Amy’s Vegan Margherita Pizza

Okay, we promise we’ll stop after this one, but if you love a plain cheesy pizza without a lot of whistles and bells, this one hits the spot and you could fool the most discerning cheese lover by not even telling them it’s made of non-dairy cheese. Keep it on hand for any future snack or meal that requires no more prep than removing the plastic wrapper and popping it into the microwave. If Daiya is your favorite dairy-free cheese, this Amy’s pizza will bring a smile to your face. The basil sprinkled on top adds a fresh component to the dish.

Calories 300

Total Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 4.5g

Protein 6g

Amy’s Vegan Supreme Pizza

Another winner from our favorite. If you were the type of person who loved meat on your pizza, this is a must-grab at the grocery store. The plant-based sausage and veggies on top of this pie are the perfect duo.

Calories 290

Total Fat 12g, Saturated Fat 3.5g

Protein 8g

Banza Plant-Based Cheese Pizza

Banza’s Plant-Based Pizza is made with chickpea-based crust and Follow Your Heart cheese that melts like the real thing. Banza pizza contains 10 grams of protein and 56 grams of carbs. Banza’s plant-based pizza makes a great meal that exceeds expectations.

Calories 410

Total Fat 19g, Saturated Fat 9g

Protein 10g

Daiya Cheeze Lover’s Pizza

Daiya’s crust is the crunchiest crust of them all. If you like your pizza well-done, grab this from the frozen aisle section. The cheese didn’t melt the way that we wanted but we loved all the combos of mozzarella and cheddar. If you have any sort of allergy, this choice of pizza is a great brand since it is free of dairy, soy, gluten, fish, eggs, and nuts.

Calories 400

Total Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 5g

Sweet Earth’s Veggie Lover’s Frozen Pizza

If you like to load the veggies on your pizza, this one is for you. This pizza has the cleanest ingredients and has broccoli, corn, brussels sprouts, and mushrooms on top. The cheese doesn’t melt well but the veggie overload makes up for it. Keep this pizza in the oven a few minutes longer to make the crust crispier.

Calories 210

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 2.5g

Protein 6g

Tattooed Chef Cauliflower White Pizza

The Tattooed Chef Cauliflower Crusted White Pizza boats an excess of plant-based cheese that takes away from any goodness the cauliflower crust may deliver. The crust itself is very delicious and cooks to crispy perfection. The biggest benefit of this plant-based pizza is the protein content, 16g of protein. It is low in carbs and makes a good snack but you may want to scrape off some of the gooey cheese.

Calories 290

Total Fat 14g,  Saturated Fat 9g

Protein 16g

Trader Joe’s Meatless Meat Lovers Pizza

With a nice, thick sourdough crust, the vegan cheese didn’t melt well but was still creamy to taste. The sausage crumbles were very realistic and gave a nice kick of heat, but the pepperoni slices were too greasy and plastic-like. The pie had very light tomato sauce but was well-seasoned. For just $5.99, it’s worth it to pick up this pie during your weekly Trader Joe’s shop.

Calories 290

Total Fat 22g, Saturated Fat 3g

Protein 7g

Wholly Veggie! Vegan Margherita Pizza

This is a cool company out of Toronto that was founded by two friends in 2017, David and John, who wanted to create a sustainable food company. We love the fact that this pizza uses cauliflower crust, so if you’re gluten intolerant or just avoiding carbs, this is the choice for you. It’s also delicious, and we only microwaved it. Use the real oven for the best results, and bake it instead.

Calories 730

Total Fat 30g, Saturated Fat 9g

Protein 7g

Wicked Kitchen The Wicked Meaty Pizza

When Wicked Kitchen sets out to make a spicy plant-based pizza using their grandmother’s secret tomato sauce, they deliver. The spicy peppers certainly have a kick what truly delights the tastebuds is the combination of crispy thin crust and somewhat gooey toppings that make this pizza one of a kind. They top it with vegan ground sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and jalapeño on a wood-fired sourdough crust with Nana’s classic red sauce and their own Wicked vegan Motz!Meat one. At just 300 calories and 2 grams of sat fat per serving this is about as clean as a pizza gets! But truth: 1 quarter of this pie is not a serving, half is. So double the Nutritionals for a fair shake.

Calories 300

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 2g

Protein 9g

The post The Best Dairy-Free and Vegan Frozen Pizzas To Try Today appeared first on The Beet.

These days you can even find delicious, egg-free nog in your refrigerator case at the supermarket, and some of the milk carton versions actually do a pretty good job of mimicking that iconic creamy, nutmeg-y taste of everyone’s favorite festive winter drink. If you’re living the dairy-free life, you might even think of having fun making your own batch for friends (you don’t even have to tell them it’s vegan –– that’s between you and Santa). Here are our favorite store-bought dairy-free eggnogs to help celebrate the holidays.

The Best Vegan and Dairy-Free Eggnog Brands

Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog

Almond Breeze is a classic-tasting eggnog that everyone will love for the holidays. Almond Breeze milk alternatives have never failed us and the brand’s eggnog lives up to all expectations we have of the taste and texture, despite the fact that it’s dairy-free. It’s one of the most allergen-friendly options. since it’s not only dairy-free but also soy-free, lactose-free, peanut-free, casein-free, egg-free, and gluten-free.

We loved this one served up plain, but we also think Almond Breeze is a tasty option for your spiked eggnog. Almond Breeze’s nog will fool your non-vegan guests into thinking they’re drinking the real deal. Serve it up and then show them the carton after!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 1g

Trader Joe’s Almond Nog

Trader Joe’s almond-based eggnog was an office favorite and you should run, don’t walk, to get your hands on a container. If you don’t like overly sweetened eggnog and you are happy with a thinner consistency, this one is the nog for you. A true eggnog lover will search for the spicy and sweet flavors found in traditional eggnogs, but healthier is always our goal so we were thrilled with TJ’s formula. The thinner pour makes this the perfect choice for a nog latte.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 65mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: <1g

Califia Farms Holiday Nog

The office was divided on Califia’s Holiday Nog: Some of our coworkers found the spices and taste to resemble the exact taste of the traditional nog they grew up with, whereas others thought it tasted too sweet, like liquid candy. This nog is for anyone who loves notes of nutmeg and ginger. Califia’s is also the creamiest option of the bunch, and makes you feel like you’re indulging in a sweet treat – but with only 1.5 grams of fat and no saturated fat, it’s the kind of plant-based treat that isn’t too terrible for you. So enjoy!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 1g

Good Karma Dairy-Free Holiday Nog

Good Karma’s Flaxmilk Holiday Nog is perfect for anyone who is nut-free or who doesn’t like the taste and consistency of almond milk. This nog is the most allergen-friendly since it is free of the top eight allergens including, gluten, dairy, and nuts. The holiday nog is made with flaxseed oil and most closely resembles the texture of traditional nog.

If you enjoy a creamer on the sweeter side, then you will love Good Karma’s nog. Want to fancy up your morning joe? This “veg-nog” blends perfectly with a cup of strong coffee, creating a sweetened holiday-infused morning beverage.  We appreciate the relatively low carbs (8g per serving), so this is your best bet if you’re watching your waist and still want to feel like you’re celebrating the holidays in style.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 0g

So Delicious Coconutmilk Holiday Nog

So Delicious is one of those companies that named itself perfectly. Sip their almond milk eggnog and you want to say the words! The consistency of their nog mimics conventional ones perfectly, with a rich taste and the same creamy thickness as real nog.  The coconut flavor adds a nice taste for a holiday bevy, but treat this nog as an indulgence since it has 2 grams of saturated fat and 15 grams of carbs. So what? It’s the holidays! Add this sweet dairy-free nog to your grocery list.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 115mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 0g

Elmhurst 1925 Oat Nog

What can we say? We love Elmhurst, which switched from being a dairy company to a plant-based company back in 2017 (way ahead of its time) and changed the name to Elmhurst 1925. Now it’s the fastest-growing plant-based beverage company on the market! You can tell your guests that as you serve them this amazingly homemade-tasting eggnog, which is made with oat milk, and just the right amount of sweetness and spice.

Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog formula is that holy grail of eggnogs: the perfect combination of flavor and sweetness without being too thick or too sweet. It’s as good as real without being over the top. Made with only six ingredients, Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog makes the perfect holiday coffee creamer or mixer for your holiday gathering. Do leave the carton in view, since it will be a conversation starter among your guests.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 2g

How to make the best vegan eggnog

Not a fan of store-bought vegan eggnogs? (If you taste our favorites you might change your mind.) But if you prefer to make your holiday treats and beverages from scratch, this recipe will become a family favorite for years to come.

Vegan Eggnog

Prep Time: 1
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 16 minutes (make it 1 to 2 hours ahead to allow it to cool)
Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

• 2 cups oat milk
• 2 tbsp sweetened condensed coconut milk (or more oat milk)
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or 2-4 tbsp of maple syrup (for desired sweetness)
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Please read through the entire instructions before beginning.
• Prep: Measure out all ingredients.
• Whisk: In a large pot on the stove, whisk together all of the ingredients until combined. Vigorously whisk until there are no more clumps of arrowroot starch.
• Heat: Then turn the stovetop up to medium-high, and heat the vegan eggnog until right before it boils. You should see a few small bubbles appear. Reduce heat to low, and whisk until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
• Cool: Remove the eggnog from the heat and allow the eggnog to cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully pour the eggnog into an airtight glass and store. Allow the mixture to cool until it’s not warm. Then place eggnog safely in the fridge to chill for 1-2 hours.
• Enjoy: Serve with or without alcohol and enjoy!

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