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January is one of those months where we feel simultaneously energised by the promise of a new year, and often de-motivated by the short hours of daylight, cold weather and feeling like we must set goals and achieve a lot.
Well, we’re here to bring you some of that good energy with our simple steps to trying some new, delicious food and some easy swaps you can try to make your lifestyle a bit more nutritious, sustainable and better for the planet!
What is Veganuary?
Veganuary is an annual challenge, promoting and educating people about veganism and encourages you to follow a vegan lifestyle for the month of January. Veganuary is now in its tenth year and sign ups have grown year on year, with people taking part across 228 countries!
I want to try this, but I don’t know where to begin…
If you’ve been thinking about switching to a vegan diet for a while, but find the idea a bit overwhelming, Veganuary is the perfect opportunity to give it a try. It’s not too late to sign up for ideas, coaching emails and even a celebrity cookbook!
Or, if you’re not quite ready yet, why not try some of our suggested swaps to start making changes one step at a time. Or you could try eating vegan a few days a week or switching one meal a day to a plant-based option.
Easy swaps to bring more plant-based products into your lifestyle
1. Plant based milk – one of the simplest swaps you can do, is to swap cow's milk for a dairy alternative. Oat, soya or almond milk are good options.
2. Butter, margarine and cheese – there are lots of very decent dairy free alternatives to try now!
3. Lentils instead of beef – next time you make a Bolognese or a chilli, swap out the meat for lentils or pulses. Or try a meat free mince – supermarkets now have lots of meat-free substitutes.
4. If you love biscuits (and who doesn’t?)why not switch to vegan-friendly Oreos, Bourbons and of course Biscoff!
5. Looking for some quick and easy sandwich fillings? Try avocado and tomato, falafel, hummus and roasted peppers, or pesto and vegan cheese. Replace tuna with chickpeas and vegan mayo or go for a delicious fried mushroom and vegan cheese toastie!
Our top recommendations for vegan food in Exeter
In the last few years, we have seen so many more vegan options on menus. Here are some of our favourite places to eat in the city:
Veg Box - located on the Quay, offering brunch, lunch and amazing drinks (don’t miss their £10 meal and drink weekday offer, and a10% student discount!).
How on Earth Deli - Exeter’s first plant-based delicatessen offering a range of protein replacements to buy, salads, sandwiches and pastries - 100% vegan and honestly homemade!
The Flat – delicious vegan pizza in Fore Street, and vegan desserts created on-site too.
Jasmine Thai – try loads of vegan options here, and even a set menu!
Herbies –championing vegetarian and vegan food since 1990, this is a must visit in Exeter.
Daily Bowl – located next to Exeter Central Station, Daily Bowl offers delicious, vibrant ,plant-based breakfasts, smoothies, lunches and sweet treats.
Are there any other places in Exeter you'd recommend for vegan options? We'd love to hear them! Message us on Instagram with your favourites.