Life

8 Vegan Comfort Foods That Have The Power To Make Even The Most Loyal Cheese Lover's Mouth Water

Kermit the Frog said it best; it's not easy being a vegan. OK, maybe his strife had more to do with being green than eating greens, but that's beside the point. Regardless of this Muppet's mantra, there is no denying that the vegan lifestyle is not an easy one to master.

When you decide to remove any and all animal products from your diet, you are rewarded with some major health perks. But, at the same time, you must also make a few sacrifices. That includes being asked a long list of annoying questions, doing research before going to a restaurant, and, possibly the toughest one, going without classic comfort foods.

Among other fare, vegans must stay away from cream, cheese, and meat — in other words, the holy trinity of comfort food. To them this is a small price to pay, but to an omnivore it’s absolute torture. After all, no one should be deprived of a big bowl of mac and cheese.

But as it turns out, vegans don’t have to go without these delicious dishes. By making a few simple swaps and substitutions, vegans can enjoy comfort food without sacrificing their morals. In some cases, their creations are even better than the original. From soups to sweets, these vegan comfort foods could convert even the biggest meat lover into a vegan. Or, at least, a part time one.

Image: Kelly Garbato/Flickr

by Leah Rocketto

Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Nothing warms you up on a winter morning like a sweet, sticky cinnamon roll. Free from any animal products, Naturally Ella’s gooey treats provide the same sugar rush as the frozen variety. And, hers are made with whole wheat flour, so they are a little bit better for you.

Image and recipe: Naturally Ella

Lentil and Mushroom Meatballs

If you’re a vegan looking for something to serve at Sunday supper, we may have found your solution. Cookie and Kate’s meatless meatballs are an animal-safe alternative to this traditional Italian fare.

Image and recipe: Cookie and Kate

Naughty and Nice Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Two classic comfort foods — casseroles and enchiladas — get a vegan makeover thanks to this easy Mexican recipe from Oh She Glows.

Image and recipe: Oh She Glows

Magic Chocolate Mousse

Craving something creamy and chocolatey? Then whip up Green Kitchen Stories’ magical mousse. Not only does this treat satisfy your sweet tooth, but it can be made in less than two minutes.

Image and recipe: Green Kitchen Stories

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan mac and cheese. Need we say more? OK, maybe a little. Love and Lemons blends coconut milk into her “cheese” sauce to achieve the same creamy consistency as non-vegan versions.

Image and recipe: Love and Lemons

Spicy Lentil Vegan Sloppy Joes

Manwich, meet your vegan match! Naturally Ella recreates this childhood favorite using lentils and a lot of spices. And yes, it’s just as messy as you remember.

Image and recipe: Naturally Ella

Tomato Soup

Think making a silky smooth vegan soup is impossible? Think again! Green Kitchen Stories uses coconut milk to give this vegan tomato soup the same texture as its cream-based counterpart.

Image and recipe: Green Kitchen Stories

Peanut Butter Cookies

The perfect blend of salty and sweet, Green Kitchen Stories’ vegan peanut butter cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Image and recipe: Green Kitchen Stories

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