It’s a vegan party this month & officially day TEN of the VEGAN Challenge. I’ve been to multiple events, dinners, and spent busy days wondering if I’ll ever find a vegan option. I’ve learned a lot in just these 10 days, but overall I’ve had a pretty good experience with the challenge. I’m going to break down a few of the questions I’ve been getting in the first few days of the challenge.
Why did I want to participate in a vegan challenge?
I truly wanted to share the experience with others. I have a unique lifestyle, but I want to share with others what the vegan lifestyle is like in Indianapolis. I’ll say, it was a challenge beyond belief to regretfully decline the lobster mac & cheese at Ocean Prime and even more so, the sausage at OcaSKB. I’m one to go out to eat often, therefore it has truly opened my eyes to the tasteless entrees restaurants attempt to serve for vegans… like can I get some flavor up in here?! It was almost laughable at the efforts, but maybe a realization they need to be more aware of what is being requested of them as an establishment in such a diverse city.
What’s been the hardest thing?
I’ll mention I did not eat meat on a daily basis before the challenge. I was also very picky about my cheese. So.. let’s see.. day eight we were treated to a dinner at Ocean Prime. I love desserts, but there aren’t many vegan desserts around town. The server brought desserts out that evening and it was just a jaw-dropping ten layer carrot cake. Now if you’ve ever explored my page enough, you’ll see multiple photos of carrots cake. This was the toughest pass I’ve had out at a restaurant.
While at home I’d say eggs are the toughest. I ate eggs for breakfast as an easy and lighter option. I’m struggling to find a good breakfast that isn’t oatmeal. I also attempted grapefruit for breakfast.. bless those that can eat such a tart treat in the morning. I enjoy my coffee too much to ruin it with the morning tart taste in my mouth. If you’ve got ideas, please share!!
So… let’s be real.. what have I been eating?
My go to snacks have been pistachios, Brussel sprouts, and carrots. I need a snack that is filling, on-the-go, and little to no prep. I mentioned before I had to rid myself of all my delicious RX Bars. The RX Bars contain egg whites as a source of protein! If you’re not vegan and haven’t had these, then I give you permission to stop reading and go get you some.
As far as my meals go, I’ve been pushing through eating oatmeal for breakfast. I bought these adorable containers for my to-go breakfasts.. so at least I’m eating in style (finding positives in the challenge). My lunch is almost always a salad. I don’t eat salads like the rest of the population. I like to add minimal spinach to the bottom of the bowl, then just pile it with everything in the fridge. I’m talking sweet potatoes, almonds, mushrooms, beans, peppers, kraut, flax seeds, granola, and raw onions. I’ve never made a ‘bad’ bowl, so I’ll keep trusting my go with the flow attitude about this creation. My dinners have been eating out almost every evening, if not then I make about the same salad for dinner too (pairs well with liquid grapes ). I’ll share about these eating out experiences in my next blog post!
Any surprises?
I’m tired like every afternoon. I’ve heard this happens often, but I’m ready for it to be over. It’s like I can fall asleep at any moment if I sit long enough. I’m looking forward to getting my energy back to normal or better yet, more energy!
I bought almond rice crackers and they had milk in them. It was the most disappointing news of the ten days.. like why would you not use ALMOND MILK in almonds crackers.
Added protein?
I haven’t picked up any of the Vega Shake just yet. It’s a shake I’ve used for awhile and really enjoy it. I highly suggest mocha or chocolate. I’m planning on picking this up at the market this weekend! Other than the shake, I eat obviously a ton of veggies, tempeh, tofu, and beans. I usually add buffalo sauce to my protein for a little kick.
So, what’s your current challenge? I’ve enjoyed being able to challenge myself through many different situations. I’m wondering what it will be like at the end of the thirty days. If you are vegan, what ultimately made you stick to the lifestyle?
Check back soon for comments about all restaurants I’ve been exploring!
Cheers,
Meg
