Day one of the 30 day vegan pledge. First things first... how did I get here?  I have an insatiable appetite for documentaries, food documentaries in particular. I have learned a lot about the effects of a meat based diet, and honestly I don't like what I know. The benefits of switching to a vegan diet, in regard to your health, are undeniable. The problem is, I really don't have anything against meat. I thought to be a vegan or vegetarian you had to sort of hold a grudge against the meat. Well, I didn't... until last night. I did watch an eye opening documentary that I wouldn't suggest to anyone unless you're trying to shock yourself out of enjoying that bacon cheeseburger.
So the plan is to post the photos of what I am eating daily and to record how I feel about the experience. I want to capture the day-in/day-out so I have a record of the experience should I fall off the wagon and ever decide at a later time that maybe this is the way. I have a horrible habit of only remembering the things I want, and then giving it a second shot.  This holds true for many situations in my life, some of which we may or may not delve into at a later time. HA!

So, for breakfast I had quinoa and miso soup. YUM. I did run into a problem right off the bat though. I couldn't use the dashi for the soup, and it adds depth to it. I ended up adding some additional miso later, and it tastes great, although I do miss that "fishiness." I'm sure I will get used to it, but remember, I don't hold a grudge against the little dried fish pellets, so it was really hard not to rationalize just putting a little in there. But, instead there was bok choy, onion, tofu, and seaweed. Made a great breakfast and snack today. I had about 3 of these small bowls throughout the morning. Really great on this cool rainy morning.

Vegan Miso Soup & Quinoa

 My next meal was really sort of a snack, as I ate it way too late to be considered lunch. This may seem odd, but it is delicious. I tend to eat this more in the summer, but it did clear up this afternoon.  It's still cool, but this was great nonetheless.  Simple, basic, and delicious. Warm corn tortilla, avocado, lime, and salt. Wonderful!

Corn Tortillas with Avocado, Lime, And Salt

The last meal for today was delicious as well. Kale cooked in a little hot chili peanut oil and yam. I know it doesn't sound glamorous, and it wasn't. Just yummy. The bitter spiciness of the kale pairs great with the soft sweet texture of the yam. I got the inspiration from this from The Happy Herbivore.  The recipe was a bit more complex, and contained wild rice. I honestly wasn't in the mood to do any cooking this evening, so I took the idea and made it super easy.

Kale with Chili Peanut Oil and Yam

The Happy Herbivore's 5-Spice Harmony Bowl & my simplified take

 I also see why they wipe the edges of the plates in fancy restaurants, because if you don't they look nasty. For the record, the plate is clean, and as you can tell by the size compared to the book, it is huge as well.

All in all this was a successful day. I don't fee like I missed a thing. Honestly I got to eat the things I prefer anyway, so I feel satisfied.  One should also note that I stayed home all day, as well, so there were really no outside pressures, either.

So far so good~ see you tomorrow with another update!