Lola Mendez Archives - The Beet

Where to Find the Best Vegan Mexican Food in New York City

Lola Mendez — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 15:11:49 +0000

New York City is a true melting pot of cultures and cuisines. If you’re looking for Mexican food, there is no shortage of spots to visit in the city, with over 900 restaurants serving Mexican fare. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, fear not: There are many restaurants that offer vegan dishes from around the globe, and you can find vegan Mexican food almost anywhere in the city.

Here are the six best places to eat vegan Mexican food in NYC, from Manhattan to Brooklyn.

1. Jajaja Plantas Mexicana

Calling All: For a fully-vegan menu with many Mexican street food favorites visit one of the three Jajaja (meaning Hahaha in Spanish) outposts in New York City with locations in Hudson Yards, Lower East Side, West Village, and the newest in Williamsburg.

Plant Yourself: The fast-casual restaurant has a darling interior so snag a table inside to get the full Jajaja experience.

Order to Share: There’s no better way to kick off a plant-based Mexican meal than with a towering stack of nachos loaded with vegan chorizo, cheese, and sour cream. The heart of palm ceviche is a light starter to split.

Don’t Miss: If you grew up loving the cheesy gordita crunch at Taco Bell you’ll be astonished by how excellent the vegan gordita is at Jajaja. The mushroom quesadilla is also a must with some of the best vegan cheese that is gooey and stringy.

Leave Room For: The churros are an absolute must and come with enough pieces to share with the table. The coconut dulce de leche dipping sauce is otherworldly.

Address: 162 E Broadway, New York, NY and 119 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn, NY

2. Guevara’s

Calling All: If you want to eat delicious vegan food and shop for plants — this is the spot.

Plant Yourself: There’s very limited seating but if you can manage it, sit inside the super-Instagrammable pink café. Otherwise, this is a great spot for takeaway.

Order to Share: Indulge in at least one of the vegan donuts in traditional Latinx flavors such as dulce de leche or guava cream cheese. They’re big enough to share.

Don’t Miss: The chilaquiles are a delicious breakfast item and include Just Egg. If you’re there for lunch, get the posole, a traditional Mexican soup.

Leave Room For: Conchas — the beloved shell-shaped Mexican bread that’s best enjoyed with a cafecito.

Address: 39 Clifton Place, Brooklyn, NY

3. For All Things Good

Calling All: Oaxaca is one of the most celebrated states in Mexico for its culinary traditions. Here you can enjoy plant-based renditions of some famous Oaxacan dishes. The vegetarian restaurant has some dishes that contain cheese and eggs.

Plant Yourself: Seating is limited so arrive early to snag a table. Someone from your party can sit down to hold the table when you enter the restaurant since orders are taken at the counter.

Order to Share: Get the table two vegan Tetelas to share. One is made with black beans and epazote and the other with hibiscus flower and chipotle salsa.

Don’t Miss: Mole is the star of Oaxacan cuisine. Order the mole amarillo memela and hold the cheese if you’re vegan.

Leave Room For: Take home some of the handmade tortillas made of blue, yellow, and red corn.

Address: 343 Franklin Ave Brooklyn, NY

4. Xilonen

Calling All: Michelin lovers — this plant-based Mexican spot in Greenpoint has been included in the Michelin Guide.

Plant Yourself: There’s no wrong place to sit in this cozy restaurant with Mexican decor details throughout such as woven tapestries, bright paintings, and lots of plants.

Order to Share: When ordering, keep in mind the menu is approximately almost fully vegan but some dishes contain eggs or cheese. Start with the avocado tostada and the leek and potato flautas to share.

Don’t Miss: Birria is a traditional Mexican dish prepared in the ground and can be challenging to find vegan. Luckily, Xilonen makes delicious birria tacos with mushrooms.

Leave Room For: Flan is a traditional dessert in Latin America that can be hard to find vegan but Xilonen serves a vegan and gluten-free version made from coconut.

Address: 905 Lorimer St, Brooklyn, NY

5. Etérea

Calling All: Gluten-free vegans craving Mexican food in Manhattan. Food allergens such as soy and nuts are clearly marked on the menu.

Plant Yourself: Grab one of the booth tables and enjoy the cozy plush red sofa-like seating.

Order to Share: You can never go wrong with ordering elote and finding one with vegan cheese is a huge treat. The corn ribs elote is doused in cilantro aioli and pickled red onion.

Don’t Miss: Tamales are a Mexican staple. Here they’re served filled with mushrooms and jackfruit.

Leave Room For: A decadent slice of Dulce de Leche Cake is topped with rosemary-infused whipped cream and gluten-free cinnamon crumble.

Address: 511 E 5th St

6. Más Veggies Vegan Taquiera

Calling All: The fully vegan Tejano national chain is beloved across the country and can be enjoyed in NYC in the Flatiron district.

Plant Yourself: Order takeaway and enjoy your lunch in Madison Square Park.

Order to Share: When you spend at least $10 you’ll get complimentary chips and salsa.

Don’t Miss: The menu consist of four styles from which to choose (tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos) and five plant-based fillings (beef, carnitas, tinga, mushroom asada, baja-style fish)

Leave Room For: Order a side of rice and beans for a hearty and satiating meal.

Address: 12 W 23rd St, New York, NY

To find more delicious vegan food around the country, visit The Beet’s Find Vegan Near Me articles and check out our expansive range of City Guides.

The post Where to Find the Best Vegan Mexican Food in New York City appeared first on The Beet.

5 Delicious Vegan Snacks to Pack for Your Road Trip

Lola Mendez — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:50:53 +0000

Road trips have become increasingly popular and continue to be a preferred method of travel during the holiday season. Planning your meals and snacks along with your route can be a bit of a headache when you or one of your fellow travelers eat plant-based. We’ve taken the mystery out of how to shop the shelves of 7-Elevens, gas station food stores that are vegan-friendly and healthy. Here are five plant-based snacks to take with you or shop for on your next cross-country adventure.

Want to sit down for a meal? Check out our Restaurant Guides to learn how to order vegan at popular chains.

The Best Vegan Road Trip Snacks

1. Bare Snacks

Bare Snacks offers an assortment of healthy vegan-friendly snacks that are available at 7-Eleven stores nationwide. The fruit-forward snacks will help give you some much-needed energy while on the road and prevent you from going for more sugary treats. The Fuji & Reds Apple Chips, Cinnamon Apple Chips, Toasted Coconut Chips, and Simply Banana Chips are all vegan.

2. PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds

If you’re looking for something salty to nosh on while you drive you’re in luck. 7-Eleven stores sell PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds in many flavors including Hella Hot, Nacho Cheese, Original, Salt and Vinegar, and Texas BBQ. The vegan rinds are the latest foodie innovation from Beyond Burger creator, Chef Dave Anderson. PigOut is high in protein with 25 grams in each full-size bag. The snack is baked and free from gluten, soy, GMOs, cholesterol, and trans fats.

3. Lenny & Larry’s Cookies

For a filling snack that will satisfy your sweet tooth pick up The Lenny & Larry’s Complete Cookie. The 4-oz cookie has up to 16g of plant-based proteins and 10g of fiber. It’s dairy-free, no egg, vegan, and Non-GMO Project Verified. Treat yourself to a few of the delicious renditions including Birthday Cake, Chocolate Donut, Apple Pie, and more.

4. Quinn Pretzels

Need something with a crunch? Quinn Snacks’ Pretzels are all vegan (except for the honey pretzels) and available at 7-Elevens. As a bonus, Quinn pretzels are made from natural gluten-free whole-grain sorghum. The pretzels are non-GMO, certified gluten-free, grain-free, paleo-friendly, vegan, and dairy-free. This salty snack hits the spot for those salty cravings.

5. Accidentally Vegan Gas Station Snacks

Fortunately, many road trip snacks are accidentally vegan. If you can’t find the above products at your pit stop lookout for nuts and seeds for a healthy snack. If you want to indulge in a less healthy snack pick up Oreos, Cliff bars, Lays barbecue chips, original Fritos, original Ritz crackers, traditional Chex Mix, Takis Fuego, Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos, Swedish Fish, original Pringles, original Sun Chips, Chick-O-Sticks, or Gardetto’s original recipe.

For more plant-based recommendations, visit The Beet’s Product Reviews.

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7 Latinx-Owned Vegan Brands to Support During Hispanic Heritage Month

Lola Mendez — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 17:14:55 +0000

Today, September 14th is Support Latino Business day! Mayors across the country including in Austin, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, District of Columbia, El Paso, Houston, Lawrence, Los Angeles, McAllen, Oakland, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco have issued city proclamations in observance of the special day and are urging communities to support local Latinx businesses.

To celebrate Support Latino Business day and Hispanic Heritage Month, we’ve rounded up seven of our favorite Latinx vegan food entrepreneurs.

1. Brizo Dressing

Finding vegan-friendly sauces can be a bit tricky but thanks to Latina-owned Brizo your pantry can be stocked with a flavorful plant-based dressing. The zesty yet simple sauce is an heirloom family recipe and is good on everything. It’s made with four ingredients: lemon juice, EVOO, and a mixture of signature herbs and spices. It can be used as a dipping sauce, marinade, salad dressing, pasta sauce, and more. In addition to being vegan, it’s also Keto, gluten-free, non-GMO, and low-cal. The sauce comes in two varieties—spicy and mild.

2. Soy Chorizo by Cacique Inc.

This vegan meat replacement has been around since the ’70s and Cacinque Inc.’s business is still held in the family and offers authentic Mexican food products. The Cacique Soy Chorizo has a slightly sweet smoky flavor, meat-like texture, and is infused with traditional seasonings to create a classic chorizo taste without any animal products.

3. Avaline Wine

Latina superstar Cameron Diaz joined forces with fashion entrepreneur Katherine Power to create Avaline, a clean vegan wine brand. The vegan wine is made with organic grapes grown with low-to-no irrigation in certified-organic European vineyards. The debut vegan wines include a white and a rosé. Avaline White uses organic grapes from Spain and is a mineral-driven crisp dry wine. Avaline Rosé uses organic grapes from France and features notes of melon and zest.

4. CALA-Box

Awarding-winning vegan eatery Calabash Tea & Tonic’s monthly subscription box brings plant-based wellness to your doorstep with curated tea and spice blends. Afro-Latina Dr. Sunyatta Amen is a master herbalist, naturopath doctor, and celebrated vegan chef. Each month the CALA-BOX is filled with two of her selected Calabash tea blends, a Calabash spice blend to use with an exclusive Calabash original vegan recipe, and organic seeds for planting from Cultivate The City.

5. P-nuff Crunch

P-nuff Crunch is a healthy new vegan snack created by Dr. Juan Salinas who is originally from Honduras and has a Ph.D. in Food Science and a certification in Sports Nutrition from the International Olympic Committee. He worked for 25 years developing snacks for companies like Kraft, Mondelez, Cadbury, and Nestle but was determined to create his own plant-based snack that was tasty and healthy. P-nuff Crunch is made from navy beans, brown rice, and peanuts which deliver vegan protein, healthy carbs, fiber, and long-lasting energy.

6. Nicole Marquis’ restaurants

Marquis is the founder of nine vegan restaurants in Philadelphia and Washington D.C., including HipCityVeg (7 locations), Bar Bombon, and Charlie was a Sinner. The Puerto Rican entrepreneur has been bringing plant-based food to these major metropolises since 2012. HipCityVeg offers plant-based fast-food classics like burgers, fries, nuggets, and shakes. Charlie was a Sinner is a full-service cocktail lounge and a small plates restaurant. Bar Bombón is a Latin-inspired restaurant reminiscent of Old San Juan.

7. Beanfields

These tasty vegan chips bring together the love of tortilla chips and beans that Mexican-American CEO Arnulfo Ventura was craving. Beanfields are healthier for you than the typical tortilla chips as they utilize navy and black beans combined with a special blend of herbs and spices. The delicious chips are certified gluten-free, non-GMO Project Verified, and Kosher. Go ahead and make some guacamole or vegan queso dip and enjoy a tasty treat of Mexican flavors.

The post 7 Latinx-Owned Vegan Brands to Support During Hispanic Heritage Month appeared first on The Beet.

The 6 Best Restaurants to Eat Vegan or Plant-Based in Miami

Lola Mendez — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 13:45:48 +0000

Miami is one of the most flavorful places to be vegan as many of the strictly plant-based restaurants and veg-forward menus offer a selection of veggie versions of classic Latin American dishes from Arepas to Choripán. Next time you’re looking for delicious vegan food in Miami, dine at any of these seven plant-based spots in the Magic City, which feature fresh, delicious fare.

The 6 Best Vegan Restaurants in Miami, Florida

1. Planta

Calling All: The 100 percent plant-based by award-winning Chef David Lee is the best spot for fine-dining lovers in Miami.

Plant yourself: Large groups will want to sit at the tall tables that can seat at least 10 guests, so call ahead for a reservation if you’re coming with an entourage.

Order to Share: The spicy tuna rolls at Planta are a fan favorite. They’re made with watermelon that’s prepared in a way that mimics the texture of raw tuna. Grab one for the table to start before digging into the extensive menu options of innovative dishes including pizzas, steamed dumplings, ceviche, and more.

Don’t Miss: The upscale restaurant has a weekly Sunday special dedicated to their Italian dishes. The Sunday Sauce menu includes spaghetti and “meatballs,” crispy cauliflower parmesan, and build-your-own pizzas. Finish your meal with a decadent vegan tiramisu for dessert.

Leave Room For Planta’s vegan version of the Florida classic, key lime pie. The cashew avocado lime cheesecake is made with a coconut date crust and dressed with an absolutely delicious raspberry purée.

Address: 850 Commerce St, Miami Beach

2. Delicious Raw

Calling All: Health fanatics will love the gigantic list of smoothies, juices, and elixirs at the vegetarian fast-casual Delicious Raw.

Plant Yourself: Arrive early to snag one of the outdoor tables and enjoy that south Florida sunshine while you nosh.

Don’t Miss: The avocado toast is anything but basic as it’s drizzled in truffle oil. Just remember to swap out the cheese for vegan parmesan to ensure it’s 100 percent vegan.

Order to Share: Indulge in the ‘Righteous Waffle’ made of ancient grains, homemade vanilla almond milk, and topped with a fresh fruit compote or pure vegan maple butter.

Leave Room For: Cleanse your palate with a raw shot like the Defense Shot with lemon, ginger, and cayenne.

Address: 1828 Bay Rd, Sunset Harbour

3. Love Life Cafe at Time Out Market

Calling All: Vegan burger fanatics won’t want to miss the award-winning version at Love Life Cafe.

Plant Yourself: Head to the Love Life Cafe food stall in Time Out Markets; the Wynwood location is often sold out of the burger.

Don’t Miss: If vegan burgers aren’t your thing but you’re down with mock meat you must try the vegan Choripán made with Beyond Meat sausage and served with a side kale salad.

Order to Share: The mac & cheese portion is huge, so dive into the savory bowl of the gluten-free mac doused with cashew alfredo sauce with some friends, or take the rest of your portion to-go.

Leave Room For: The carrot cake, which melts-in-your-mouth thanks to its decadent soy icing.

Address: 1601 Drexel Ave, Miami

4. Manna Life Food

Calling All: For flavorful eats on a budget in Miami look no further than the fully vegan Manna Life Food.

Plant Yourself: Head to the back of the restaurant to sit in the cozy lounge area.

Don’t Miss: The arepas at Manna Life are so popular they started to sell packets of the organic corn base. There’s an array of toppings to choose from, but the roasted veggies with cashew cream cheese and basil always hit the spot.

Order to Share: The ‘Noritos’ are cut in half and perfect for sharing. Wrapped in nori and available in a variety of fillings including an Asian-inspired edamame coconut brown rice mixture or falafel, hummus, and tzatziki.

Leave Room For: Grab a guilt-free smoothie to go as the takeaway cups are made of plant plastic and the straws are made from Agave. The Manna Lifeshake is packed with plant protein and is naturally sweet with cacao, cashew mylk, dates, coconut whipped cream, and more.

Address: 80 NE 2nd Ave, Miami

5. Bunnie Cakes

Calling All: The debut vegan bakery in Miami has something for everyone with a sweet tooth, and even a few savory dishes if you’re not in the mood for dessert.

Plant Yourself: Seating is limited so enjoy your bite-sized cupcake on the go.

Don’t Miss: If you have a vegan birthday to celebrate ordering a cake from Bunnie Cakes is the obvious choice, because their treats are gorgeous and delicious. But, you don’t need a reason to celebrate so treat yourself to a cake sundae with layers of delicious cake and vegan frosting.

Order to Share: Pick up a box of bite-sized cupcakes to share. Pick and choose your favorite flavors including passion fruit, dulce no leche, red velvet, and more.

Leave Room For: Not everything at Bunnie Cakes is sweet. Grab one of their vegan sandwiches to go including a drool-worthy Cuban rendition and BBQ jackfruit.

Address: 2322 NE 2nd Ave, Miami

6. Plant Miami

Calling All: Plant Miami in Sacred Space is fully vegan and mostly raw. It’s the chic place to see and be seen by the vegan elite in Miami.

Plant Yourself: The outdoor patio is surrounded by greenery and brought to life with regular DJ sets but the seats fill up quickly. Luckily, the restaurant is just as stunning indoors.

Don’t Miss: The upscale vegan eatery has a selection of dishes inspired by Latin American countries such as the tamale ranchero with adobo squash, black beans, and lime cream or the mushroom arepa with adobo king oyster mushrooms and avocado mousse.

Order to Share: Plant Miami caters to everyone and can mark which dishes are nut-free.

Leave Room For: Vegan passionfruit flan. Need we say more?

Address: 105 NE 24th St, Miami

The post The 6 Best Restaurants to Eat Vegan or Plant-Based in Miami appeared first on The Beet.

The 6 Best Places to Eat Vegan in Reno, Nevada

Lola Mendez — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 13:09:08 +0000

Reno, Nevada may not be the first place you think of when you imagine vegan food heavens in the Western United States. But the “The Biggest Little City in the World” has a surprisingly impressive vegan food scene. Before or after your trip to the playa for Burning Man, you’ll be able to satisfy your hunger with a wide selection of plant-based foods. Here are six of the best restaurants for vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based eaters located in Reno, Nevada

The Best Restaurants to Eat Vegan in Reno, Nevada

1. Great Full Gardens

Calling All: Besides a stellar pun on words, this eatery serves up a seemingly never-ending selection of vegan-friendly dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant isn’t strictly vegan making this a great place to come with friends with different diets. All dishes utilize produce from local farmers. There are also gluten-free and Paleo options.

Plant Yourself: The restaurant opens at 8 AM and is a perfect spot for brunch before a long day of sightseeing in Reno. Come early to get one of the few tables on the patio.

Order to Share: The Stuffed Shrooms with vegan cheese melted into portobellos.

Don’t Miss: The Warm Kale salad puts boring lettuce, tomato, and onion salads to shame with its mix of golden beets, Brussel sprouts, dried cranberries, and slivered almonds dressed in a champagne vinaigrette. Pair the salad with a half order of the vegan grilled cheese sandwich with pesto aioli.

Address: 555 S Virginia St #107

2. Batch Cupcakery

Calling All: Conveniently located next to Great Full Gardens, this organic non-GMO bakery has a wide selection of vegan goods including cupcakes, cookies, and brownies. There are some gluten-free options made with almond and chickpea flour.

Plant Yourself: Get your sweets to go and nosh on them while on a Pineapple Pedicab street art tour or while walking to the Nevada Museum of Art.

Order to Share: Order all the vegan cupcakes available that day to share and try them all. You can usually find vegan lemon, chocolate mint, and strawberry cupcakes.

Don’t Miss: The Epic German Chocolate Cupcake is vegan and gluten-free.

Address: 555 South Virginia St #104

3. Sizzle Pie

Calling All: Who doesn’t love pizza? At this East-Coast style pie joint vegans and non-vegans can find their perfect slice.

Plant Yourself: Snag a table inside the punk pizzeria.

Order to Share: You’re allowed to do half-and-half orders so choose two vegan pizzas and try them both in one pie! You can’t go wrong with the Spiral Tap with caramelized onion and nooch.

Don’t Miss: All of the signature sauces are vegan. Go wild and order them all including ranch, caramelized onion spread, spicy aardvark red sauce, and creamy basil cashew spread.

Address: 190 S Center St

4. House of Mexica

Calling All: Love Mexican food and have a hard time finding plant-based versions of traditional dishes? Look no further than the House of Mexica.

Plant Yourself: Grab a booth and prepare for a Mexican feast.

Order to Share: While there are plenty of western items on the menu such as chick’n sandwiches, burgers, and mac n’ cheese, you’d be missing out by not ordering all the traditional Mexican dishes. Order a few to share with the table including the asada sopes, al pastor tamales, and cheesy nopal chimichanga.

Don’t Miss: Wash all that comida down with a glass of vegan creamy horchata.

Address: 3600 Warren Way #107

5. Thali Reno

Calling All: This is the only fully organic Indian restaurant in Reno. Thali offers vegetarian and vegan traditional thali platters with authentic Indian dishes made with local sustainably-sourced ingredients. They also can prepare the meal gluten-free.

Plant Yourself: There’s a small selection of seating in the cozy restaurant or you can venture out to the market’s patio space that’s equipped with tables and chairs.

Order to Share: Everyone orders their own thali plate to their liking. The plate features a selection of home-cooked curries which rotate each day and hearty servings of sides such as chutney, pickled vegetables, and dahl (lentils).

Don’t Miss: There’s kombucha on tap from Folk Brewing Co.

Address: 148 West St

6. Nom Eats

Calling All: Craving vegan junk food? This is the place. What was once a vegan food truck now has a stall in the West Street Market food court.

Plant Yourself: Located in the same food hall as Thali, patrons can select from indoor or outdoor seating.

Order to Share: Start by trying all the sides such as the garlic and parm soy curls and mac n’ cheese.

Don’t Miss: The chickpea melt tastes just like your childhood, without the animal cruelty, thanks to the perfect mix of chickpeas, cheese, red onions, and lettuce.

Address: 148 West St

To find delicious plant-based fare in your neighborhood, visit The Beet’s Find Vegan Near Me articles.

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The 5 Best Vegan Snacks to Bring Along on Your Next Road Trip

Lola Mendez — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 19:25:45 +0000

Road trips have become increasingly popular this summer and will continue to be the preferred method of travel this fall due to the lingering pandemic. Planning your meals and snacks–along with your route–can be a bit of a headache when you or one of your fellow travelers eat plant-based. We’ve taken the mystery out of how to shop the shelves of 7-Elevens, gas station food stores that are vegan-friendly and healthy. Here are five plant-based snacks to take with you or shop for on your next cross-country adventure.

1. Bare Snacks

2. PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds

3. Lenny & Larry’s

4. Quinn Pretzels

Need something with a crunch? Quinn Snacks’ Pretzels are all vegan (except for the honey pretzels) and available at 7-Elevens. As a bonus, Quinn pretzels are made from natural gluten-free whole grain sorghum. The pretzels are non-GMO, certified gluten-free, grain-free, paleo-friendly, vegan, and dairy-free. This salty snack hits the spot for those salty cravings.

5. Gas station road trip snacks

The post The 5 Best Vegan Snacks to Bring Along on Your Next Road Trip appeared first on The Beet.

The Best Places to Eat Vegan in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Lola Mendez — Sun, 01 May 2022 14:10:42 +0000

Santa Fe has a burgeoning vegan and vegetarian food scene making it a fantastic city for plant-based eaters to visit. In the New Mexican town, you’ll find everything including plant-based pizza, tacos, and curry. With the variety of global cuisine options in Santa Fe, you’ll never get bored eating different types of plant-based food.

Although the scene is growing, there are still just a few dedicated vegan spots in the city. These are our four picks for the best places to enjoy vegan-friendly food in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

1. Plant Base Cafe

Calling All: If you’re craving vegan junk food, this is the place. Plant Base Cafe is the only place in Santa Fe that’s totally vegan as well as soy, sugar, and gluten-free. All the ingredients are organic too!

Plant Yourself: This is a small takeaway window so plan to enjoy your food back at your accommodation or in the car.

Order to Share: There are three menus here — Mexican, Italian, and American — so everyone is sure to find something they’ll enjoy such as pizza, burgers, or nachos. Start with the buffalo cauliflower wings and portobello fries to share.

Don’t Miss: If you’re craving a plant-based breakfast you can order Just Egg omelets, breakfast tacos, and pancakes.

Leave Room For: There aren’t many desserts to choose from but the vegan tiramisu is a must.

Address: 1372 Vegas Verdes Drive

2. Ras Rody

Calling All: Those who love the ital flavors of Jamaican cuisine will love picking up a meal at this 100 percent vegan food truck. Ras Rody also has an ital restaurant in Jamaica—the cuisine at the food truck is authentic and delicious. Ital is the plant-based cuisine of Rastafarians.

Plant Yourself: The food truck doesn’t have seating but there’s a spacious parking lot so you can eat in your car or take your meal back to your accommodation.

Order to Share: The combo plate changes daily and is meant for one person. It usually includes a vegetable curry, a bean stew, spicy soy protein, and steamed veggies and rice spiced with ital flavors.

Don’t Miss: If you’re not super hungry you can just order the stew of the day which is hearty, filling, and delicious.

Leave Room For: If you’re a coffee lover you can get freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee at the food truck.

Address: 1312 Agua Fria Street

3. Annapurna’s World Vegetarian Cafe

Calling All: If you’re plant-based and have been to Santa Fe before, you’ve probably been to this cafe that opened in 2002. It has found success as it consistently offers healthy flavorful dishes. Using organic produce the Ayurvedic menu offers an assortment of dishes from across the globe. Many dishes are vegan-friendly and some are soy-free.

Plant Yourself: Choose from indoor dining in the colorful restaurant or sit in the open-air patio.

Order to Share: Get samosas and masala fries for the table to start the meal on a savory note.

Don’t Miss: The thali plate is ideal for those who want to try a few different things. Traditionally served in Kerala on a banana leaf, the thali plate consists of three vegan curries, your choice of sambhar, basmati or brown rice or quinoa, chutney, and chapati or dosa.

Leave Room For: A traditional vegan-friendly ayurvedic dish is Kitchari. It’s suitable for all three doshas as it’s light and easy to digest with basmati rice, yellow split mung beans, vegetables, and greens.

Address: 1620 St. Michael’s Drive

4. Root 66 Vegan Café

Calling All: Eaters seeking a 100 percent plant-based café experience with a super attentive family-oriented staff. Jack is the owner, chef, and baker and will ensure that your experience is top-notch.

Plant Yourself: With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s your call if you want to stay inside the cozy cafe or luxuriate in the weather outside.

Order to Share: The entire menu is fresh and the food’s attention to detail is incredible, but a few standouts include the Cranberry Chickpea Salad Sandwich and the homemade Challah buns.

Don’t Miss: Grab some of Jack’s famous baked goods on the way out like the famous peppermint patties. While you’re at it, don’t forget to snag some homemade treats for your pooch! Root 66 offers a “barkery” complete with organic and vegan dog treats.

Address: 1704 Lena Street

To find delicious plant-based fare in your neighborhood, visit The Beet’s City Guides.

The post The Best Places to Eat Vegan in Santa Fe, New Mexico appeared first on The Beet.

Kamala Harris’ Chef Shares Her Famous Vegan Gumbo Recipe

Lola Mendez — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 15:34:52 +0000

Chef Rene Johnson is no stranger to making show-stopping vegan meals for political powerhouses. She’s been cooking for some of the world’s dignitaries for over two decades, including Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Governor of California Gavin Newsom, and others.

Johnson is known for serving up healthy southern-inspired comfort food made vegan – such as collard greens, sweet potato waffles, old-fashioned grits, butter beans, cobblers, and decadent pies. All without any animal products, including eggs or dairy.

“I want everyone to know going vegan isn’t as hard as you think it is. Take baby steps on your vegan journey. Going vegan doesn’t mean no flavor,” Johnson says. “Vegan and soul food are a dynamic combination.”

She loves preparing healthier vegan soul food dishes inspired by cooking in her grandmother Katherine’s kitchen. Make her big bowl of vegan gumbo and share it with your loved ones.

Kitchen Needs

1 Super large pot
1 Chopping board
1 Cutting knives
1 medium-size pan

The Big Ol’ Pot Gumbo Made Vegan

Serves 8

Ingredients

2 cups chopped onion
1 medium bell pepper chopped
1 whole bunch of celery (including leaves) chopped
1 1/2 teaspoon– Chopped garlic
1 leek stalk thinly sliced
1 bulb fennel chopped
4 to 5 sticks of fresh oregano

For the Seasoning Mix

6 whole bay leaves
2 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon granulated onion
2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoon cumin
2 tablespoons gumbo file

For the Roux

3/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup flour
1 tbsp chopped garlic

For the Stock

5 1/2 cups of water
1 vegan chicken bouillon

For the Cajun

1 can of kidney beans, discard liquid
1 lb. mock fried tofu shrimp
1 lb. impossible Italian sausage sliced

For the Fried Mock Tofu Shrimp

1 container of firm tofu- Liquid removed (Remove liquid from tofu by placing a heavy item on it for 1 hour. Once the liquid is removed slice in ½ inch sticks.)

Instructions

In a large stockpot, add 5 1/2 cups of water, then add vegan bouillon, add salt, granulated onion and garlic salt, and bay leaves. Boil for 10 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, add vegan links, cook for about 10 mins till you see the color of the oil change and the links start to brown. Add onions, bell pepper, and celery, leeks, fennel, garlic cook till tender. – I absolutely love this combination, I always eat a plate of it.
Transfer links, veggie mixture, and kidney beans to a large stockpot and continue to cook while you make your soup.
Next, make your soup: Roux is usually made with 50/50 oil and flour. Heat 3/4 cups of oil in a heavy skillet on high for about 5 minutes until it begins to smoke, gradually add flour, continue to stir until plants brown, (stir constantly) for about 2 to 4 minutes (feel free to use a timer if you need) Roux should be about the color of dark honey, maybe a bit brighter, but not much.
Then add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and gumbo and continue stirring for 1 to 2 minutes.
Then add the roux mixture to a large stockpot. Bring to boil for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes more.
Next slice tofu in ½ inch sliced, sprinkle olive over, salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and paprika over them. Place seasoned tofu in corneal fully covered set on a dry plate for 10 minutes to make sure they are well coated.
Pour 1 cup canola oil into a medium-size skillet, and heat over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, drop coated tofu in oil fry till golden brown for 5 to 7 minutes.
Remove from heat set aside. Serve alongside a scoop of rice topped with fresh scallions.

Important: Taste your gumbo for salt preference and then you are ready to eat.

Nutritionals

The post Kamala Harris’ Chef Shares Her Famous Vegan Gumbo Recipe appeared first on The Beet.

The 6 Best Places to Eat Vegan in Cabos San Lucas, Mexico

Lola Mendez — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 13:09:13 +0000

Cabo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Most visitors stay in all-inclusive resorts which is a shame as San José del Cabo has an array of gorgeous farm-to-table restaurants and cool cafes serving plant-based and vegan dishes. Even gorgeous beach resorts in Cabo San Lucas are enhancing their menus by adding vegan plates to their offerings.

Here are six fantastic dining experiences that cater to vegans in Los Cabos.

1. Chula Vegan Café

Calling All: Folks seeking casual dining between stints relaxing at the beach. Chula was the first 100 percent vegan restaurant in Los Cabos.

Plant Yourself: There’s indoor and outdoor dining available. Come for an early lunch to snag a table on the covered terrace.

Order to Share: Chula serves plant-based renditions of traditional Mexican foods and hearty vegan comfort foods. Start with the cashew cheese nachos for the table. If you’re craving a Mexican meal you can’t go wrong with the enfrijoladas with vegan chorizo and cheese. If you want to get take out to eat by the beach, pick up the vegan lox bagel with grilled carrots, cashew cream chees, and capers. Biodegradable takeaway containers are used.

Don’t Miss: The smoothie bowls are delicious — especially during the warm summer months. For a treat, opt for the açaí bowl, jam-packed with nutrients and vitamins.

Leave Room For: Vegan waffles are hard to come by and Chula has perfected their rendition. The hearty waffles are loaded with fresh fruit, coconut flakes, almond butter, and agave syrup.

Address: Blvd. Mijares, Plaza La Mision 1A, San José del Cabo

2. Don Sanchez Restaurant

Calling All: This is the spot in Los Cabos for a flavorful upscale vegan tasting menu prepared with fresh local produce using modern twists of traditional ingredients for a memorable meal. Don Sanchez received the OpenTable Diners Choice award in 2020.

Plant Yourself: The covered outdoor dining terrace is the best place to enjoy your meal.

Order to Share: Don Sanchez isn’t strictly plant-based. If everyone is ordering their own tasting menu you can start with an order of guacamole for the table.

Don’t Miss: The vegan tasting menu plates rotate with the season but you’re likely to get to try one of the restaurant’s signature vegan dishes, the beet carpaccio served with a fermented hibiscus vinaigrette. The vegan taco is extraordinary served on a cactus leaf tortilla with sun-dried jackfruit and house-made vegan ground meat. If you’re lucky huitlacoche pasta and jicama tacos will also be included.

Leave Room For: The Tostada Mi Rancho Vegan is a must-try with truffle black bean powder and cashew cream.

Address: Blvd. Mijares s/n. Edificio Eclipse Int 3, San José del Cabo

3. Los Tamarindos

Calling All: Those seeking a healthy and fancy evening under the stars will love this upscale organic farm-to-table dining experience in a verdant oasis.

Plant yourself: If you’re having a celebration with a large group you can request to have a table placed near the farm. Otherwise, outdoor dining is available on the 19th-century farmstead terrace which has a beautiful view of the edible gardens below.

Order to Share: If you eat oysters, as they’re not sentient beings, start the meal off with a plate of Baja oysters served with housemade ponzu. For a vegan main, the mesquite-baked cauliflower melts in your mouth and is smothered with sikil p’ak, a delicious traditional Mayan salsa.

Don’t Miss: Make time during your trip to Los Cabos to take a cooking class at Los Tamarindos. The course can be catered to vegans. The four-course meal you prepare will vary based on seasonal produce at the farm, but you’ll always have the chance to make tortillas and salsa from scratch.

Leave Room For: A cocktail made with the house Mezcal La Venia, guava, and mint.

Address: C. de Las Animas s/n, Animas Bajas, San José del Cabo

4. Mi Vegano Favorito

Calling All: If you’re looking for a quick lunch, grab a bite from this local favorite plant-based burger spot.

Plant yourself: The outdoor dining patio is small so if you’re planning to eat your burger on-site be sure not to come at peak hours.

Order to Share: Everyone should get their own veggie burger to their liking but order a side of the cheesy potatoes Diego and hummus to share.

Don’t Miss: The sunrise burger is arguably the best option as it’s decked out with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and cheese. If you’re looking for a burger with Mexican flavors, order the bajo cero with chipotle and avocado.

Leave Room For: Strawberries served with homemade coconut whipped cream. This decadent dessert is naturally gluten-free.

Address: Av Centenario, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo

5. Solaz Los Cabos

Calling All: This eco-conscious resort recently added an array of vegan options to its menus offering plates made of organic and local garden-fresh ingredients.

Plant yourself: There are seven dining establishments on-site, all of which can cater to plant-based eaters. The beachfront Al Pairo serves small plates meant for sharing. Cascabel and Erizo both focus on Mexican cuisine. The pool-side Mako has the most vegan-friendly dishes including power bowls, salads from local biodynamic farms, and artisanal wood-fired flatbreads.

Order to Share: Vegan tacos for the table including roasted cauliflower and avocado tacos.

Don’t Miss: Tell your waiter any food allergies or restrictions you have and ask the chef to prepare you something special. You won’t regret it and will enjoy a one-of-a-kind meal.

Leave Room For: If you’re a guest at Solaz and booked a room with a private dipping pool, order fruit and champagne to enjoy at sunset from your private oasis.

Address: Km 18.5 Carr Transpeninsular Csl-Sjc Cabo, San José del Cabo

6. Grand Solmar Rancho San Lucas

Calling All: Family-friendly resort dining with plant-based options in Los Cabos.

Plant yourself: Make a reservation for dinner at Anica Restaurant next to the firepit.

Order to Share: Guacamole and vegan ceviche with chips to be enjoyed by the pool from the Lagoon Bar. Later, enjoy the mushroom tostada or quinoa and lima bean salad. For dinner opt for the grilled portobello with tofu cream and a side of grilled cauliflower.

Don’t Miss: At the breakfast buffet ask the chef to prepare vegan chilaquiles loaded with black beans (without manteca, which means lard) on avocado.

Leave Room For: The chia seeding pudding for breakfast at Anica is fantastic and served with fresh fruit. It’s a nutritious and protein-rich way to start the day.

Address: Carretera Todos Santos Km 120 #1, 23473 Cabo San Lucas

To find delicious plant-based fare in your neighborhood, visit The Beet’s Find Vegan Near Me category.

The post The 6 Best Places to Eat Vegan in Cabos San Lucas, Mexico appeared first on The Beet.

Chef Lorena Garcia’s Famous Vegan Arepa Recipe

Lola Mendez — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:11:13 +0000

Arepas are a staple in Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine and are unintentionally vegan. The main ingredient of the dish is cornmeal. Arepas are half an inch thick—both sides of the cornmeal cake are cooked until the arepa develops a crunchy exterior. Inside, the arepa stays soft. After it’s cooked, it’s sliced in half and filled with any stuffing the cook desires. It’s customary to use meat and cheese, but there are many combinations that are plant-based and vegan-friendly.

Arepas are easy to make with just four simple pantry staple ingredients. We spoke with celebrity Chef Lorena Garcia about her love of arepas and her personal recipe. The Venezuelan chef serves arepas at her upscale Latin American restaurant CHICA which has locations in Miami, Las Vegas, and Aspen and is a part of John Kunkel’s 50 Eggs Hospitality Group. The Lorena’s Arepa basket comes with arepas infused with beet, cilantro, and black beans. If you’re vegan, skip the cheese and nata butter arepas in the basket.

“Arepas are delicious. When I was six years old, I made arepas for my family and served them as a picnic in the middle of the living room. Arepas feel like home. They’re a part of every meal in Venezuela and I love sharing them with our guests at CHICA,” the Top Chef Masters competitor says. She’s always loved arepas because they’re versatile and easy to make.

Chef Garcia recommends stuffing your arepas with tasty vegan fillings such as sliced avocados with a touch of EVOO and salt; marinated tomatoes with balsamic vinegar and pink salt; or marinated grilled veggies with fresh herbs. “Traditionally, vegan arepas are filled with roasted sweet plantains or black beans,” she says.

Here’s Chef Garcia’s perfect arepa recipe. You can watch a video of her making the arepas on Instagram in Spanish with English subtitles.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Vegan Arepas

Makes 3 or 4 arepas

Ingredients

2 cups precooked corn flour (masa arepa flour)
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 ½ cups water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing skillet)

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the precooked cornflour and salt. Add the water and knead the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined and the dough no longer sticks to your hands. If, while kneading, the dough seems too stiff and breaks apart, add a few tablespoons of hot water; if it’s too sticky, add a little more cornflour.
Divide the dough into 8 equal balls, about 4 1/2 ounces each, and flatten each one between your palms into a 4-inch patty, ½ inch thick.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat for 2 minutes.
Add 3 or 4 arepas to the pan depending on the size of the pan. The arepas should sizzle as they hit the skillet.
Cook the arepas until they’re golden and have a nice crust, about 6 to 8 minutes. Flip them and brown the other side for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. Then cover the arepas and continue to steam them for another 5 minutes.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutritionals

The post Chef Lorena Garcia’s Famous Vegan Arepa Recipe appeared first on The Beet.