BOOK REVIEWS
Vegan on a Budget
By Nava AtlasNava Atlas is a New York-based artist, illustrator, and cookbook creator. Her latest book,Vegan on a Budget, contains 125 low-cost, generally simple recipes.
The book begins with tips for becoming a wallet-friendly vegan, like how to shop smartly in the supermarket, finding coupons online, handling expensive natural foods stores, and more.
For those beginning their vegan journey, she provides an in-depth list of essential ingredients, as well as an entire chapter dedicated to basic recipes.
The first chapter focuses on soups and stews, such as Sweet Potato & Black Bean, Ramen Noodle, and some vegan renditions of American favorites, including Broccoli Cheddar and Two-Potato Soup. I opted for trying the Quick Lentil & Kidney Bean Curry Soup. I am glad I did\u2014my nonvegan family loved this one. It was fast and filling, and provided leftovers.
Chapter two presents skillets and stir-fries. In the mood for something light? Try the Stir-Fried Collard Greens with Cabbage & Carrots or the Quinoa & Cauliflower Pilaf. Barbecue-Flavored Tofu & Chickpea Bowl is a heartier option and having made it, I can say that this sweet and savory dish is a new favorite.
The next chapter is all about cozy casseroles and baked dishes–perfect for colder seasons–with Vegetable & Chickpea Potpie, Roasted Root Vegetables with Brussels Sprouts, and Not-Just-for Holidays Green Bean Casserole.
Are you tired of eating the same lunch every day? Try one of the various lunch options, including Portobello & Seitan Cheesesteak Sandwiches, Barbecue Flavored Lentil Sloppy Joes, or Mini Tortilla Pizza.
For breakfast, try healthier Whole Grain Bowl, Chickpea Omelets, and Southwestern Tofu Scramble–or consider treating yourself with the French Toast Casserole. Don't overlook the dessert chapter, with various cookies, cobblers, and cakes, perfect for topping off any meal.
Vegan on a Budget (ISBN 978-1-4549-3697-8) is a 213-page book. It is published by Sterling Epicure and retails for $24.95. Order this book online or from your local bookstore. Clarissa Hauber, VRG Intern
The Friendly Vegan
By Toni Okamoto & Michelle CehnToni Okamoto is the founder of the popular website and cookbook, Plant-Based on a Budget,and is co-host of The Plant-Powered People Podcast. Michelle Cehn, a photographer and filmmaker, has produced videos for leading vegan organizations and is the founder of the website World of Vegan.
The Friendly Vegan provides simple, recognizable vegan dishes that both vegans and nonvegans will enjoy! The first chapter is dedicated to breakfast and brunch. Savory options include Tofu Scramble, Breakfast Burritos, and Avocado Toast. The chapter focuses more on sweet dishes–with recipes from Toaster Pastries to Challah French Toast to simple Overnight Oats.
Several popular meals are in chapter two: Dinner and Entrées. Lighter dishes include Sushi, a BLT Sandwich, and Pesto Pasta. Heartier options include Cornbread Chili Casserole and Yellow Tofu Curry. The Fettucine Alfredo, a dish I personally tried, was quite enjoyable–I liked that it called for almonds over cashews, preventing it from tasting too rich.
The Warm and Cozy Soups chapter is ideal for colder months and has plenty of classics to please any eater, such as Split Pea Soup, and Spicy Udon Noodle Soup.
Don't forget to check out the Apps, Snacks, and Sides chapter with fun recipes for Jenn's Fried Tofu Wontons, Pesto Crostini, and Stephanie's Deviled Potatoes.
The Desserts chapter is unmissable with delicious treats such as Ice Cream Cake, Pumpkin Chocolate Pie, Peanut Butter Cups, and many more. Plus check out the Drinks section with holiday favorites such as Eggnog and Pumpkin Spice Latte.
The Friendly Vegan (ISBN 978-1-9506-6536-5) is a 304-page book. It is published by BenBella Books, Inc.
