Veganuary

We’re over halfway through January, and if you’ve committed to Veganuary—congratulations! Making the shift to a plant-based diet is a fantastic way to prioritise your health, reduce your environmental footprint, and explore exciting new flavours.

By now, you should be starting to feel the benefits of your vegan journey. And if you’re looking for inspiration to keep it going, we’ve got you covered with delicious recipes and recommendations for East London’s best vegan spots.

Benefits of Going Vegan

At this stage of Veganuary, many people report experiencing the following benefits:

1. Increased Energy
   A diet rich in whole, plant-based foods provides plenty of nutrients and fibre, helping you feel more energised throughout the day.
2. Improved Digestion
   The high fibre content in fruits, vegetables, and legumes helps to keep your digestion running smoothly.
3. Better Recovery
   If you’ve been working out with KBPT, a vegan diet’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce soreness and improve recovery time after training sessions.
4. Weight Management
   Many people find that eating more nutrient-dense plant foods helps with maintaining or losing weight without feeling deprived.
5. Positive Environmental Impact
   By eating plant-based meals, you’re reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Three Delicious Vegan Recipes to Try

If you’re in need of some culinary inspiration, here are three of our favourite vegan recipes that are not only nutritious but also packed with flavour:

1. Vegan Bean Burgers with Sweet Potato Wedges

Ingredients for the Burgers:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Wedges:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder, and spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
2. Mash the black beans in a bowl, then mix in the breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and spices. Shape into patties.
3. Heat a little oil in a frying pan and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
4. Serve the burgers on a bun or lettuce wrap, with your favourite toppings and the sweet potato wedges on the side.

2. Chickpea Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable stock
• 2 handfuls spinach
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in the turmeric and cumin, cooking for 1 minute to release the spices’ flavours.
3. Add the chickpeas, tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve with brown rice or crusty bread.

3. Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto

Ingredients:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Toss the squash with olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the stock, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently, until the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the roasted squash and sage. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan on top.

If you’re feeling tired of cooking or want to treat yourself to a meal out, East London is brimming with fantastic vegan cafes. Here are five great spots to check out:

1. Temple of Seitan (Hackney)

Known for its indulgent vegan comfort food, Temple of Seitan offers everything from crispy “chicken” burgers to mac and cheese.

2. Pickywops (Shoreditch)

This vegan pizza joint specialises in creative, plant-based toppings and alternative dough options. A must-visit for pizza lovers!

3. Palm Greens (Hackney)

Located in Netil Market, Palm Greens serves fresh, vibrant salads and bowls that are perfect for a healthy lunch on the go.

4. Black Cat Café (Hackney)

A cosy cooperative café with a fully vegan menu featuring hearty mains, sweet treats, and delicious coffee.

5. The Spread Eagle (Homerton)

London’s first fully vegan pub, The Spread Eagle offers a traditional pub experience with an entirely plant-based twist.

Keep Up the Momentum!

Halfway through Veganuary is a great time to reflect on your progress and plan for the weeks ahead. Whether you’re enjoying the benefits of a plant-based diet, trying new recipes, or exploring East London’s vegan food scene, the key is to stay inspired and have fun with it.

At KBPT, we’re here to support your health and fitness journey, whether that’s through personal training, nutrition advice, or helping you create sustainable habits. Keep going—you’ve got this!

Ready to take your fitness and health to the next level? Visit www.kbpersonaltraining.co.uk to book a session and let us help you smash your 2024 goals.