GREY WINTER DAYS ARE OFFICIALLY HERE IN MELBOURNE + WE'RE ON THE HUNT FOR VEGAN-FRIENDLY COMFORT FOOD TO IMPROVE OUR MOOD.
The mornings are frosty, our favourite knits + coats are on high rotation, but on grey + rainy days we're conscious of the seasonal drop in happy brain chemicals. So what's a slightly down in the dumps, but determined to ride this season with smiles on our collective face, bunch of herbivores to do?
Eat well, that's what. Despite these chilly days (and nights) whispering to us to hibernate + eat rubbish, we know that good nutrition helps us feel better, look better, function better - and plants have the power to deliver. So, we've rounded up a few of our favourite vegan winter recipes that will bring equal parts joy + indulgence to your plates. Get that apron on, start chopping (it's meditative) and get ready to feel better.
SHAKSHUKA WITH CORIANDER DUMPLINGS BY SHANNON MARTINEZ
A vegan version of classic Middle Eastern baked eggs, with lots of spice + flavour. Perfect for cold weather.
LENTIL, SWEET POTATO + CHICKPEA STEW BY SILVIA COLLOCA
This is a no fuss, simple stew to cook, a classic winter meal that will have the house smelling fragrant.
TANDOORI TOFU SHEET PAN DINNER BY THE MINIMALIST BAKER
20 minutes of chopping + half an hour in the oven brings you this spiced + warming vegie dish. Use the recipe as is or swap out the veg for what you have on hand.
EPIC VEGAN LASAGNE BY JAMIE OLIVER
This is one to crank up the tunes and spend some quality time in the kitchen - handmade pasta, rich ragu with lentils, tomatoes + mushrooms, and a vegan bechamel sauce. Heaven.
SWEET POTATO BLACK BEAN CHILI BY THE SIMPLE VEGANISTA
Hearty, carby + full of flavour - the definition of winter comfort food. Add some cocoa powder or vegan dark chocolate to add yet another layer of flavour + depth.
WINTER VEGETABLE CURRY BY BBC FOOD
Aromatic + packed with nutrients, this curry is an easy weeknight dinner - and a good way to use up leftover veg.
PISTACHIO OAT SQUARES BY JESSICA MURNANE
A snack that's not too sweet, these oat squares can be changed up by swapping out the pistachios for what nuts you have on hand.
VEGAN CHOCOLATE POTS BY JAMIE OLIVER
A vegan version of chocolate mousse made with tofu + dairy free chocolate. Luscious.
STICKY FIG PUDDING BY SHANNON MARTINEZ
Figs bring a delicious seasonal twist to the traditional sticky date pudding. It's comforting, easy + a crowd favourite.
VEGAN SALTED CARAMEL TART BY THE MINIMALIST BAKER
Some pure decadence to finish - nothing more to be said.
Enjoy some plant-powered winter food that will have you feeling good, no matter the weather. This season - and all seasons - we're heeding the words of the wonderful Michael Pollan: "Eat food, not too much, mostly plants."
Bon appetit 🖤
Studio Sans Beast
