One of the many ways I think we can all be green is to eat less meat, or become vegetarian(and if you are really ambitious, vegan). In our house, we are vegetarian(except when out of the house when my husband goes carnivore crazy)! Not only is eating no meat or less meat green, but it also saves our family money and way better for our health. The impact that meat production has on the environment is ridiculous, especially beef! I buy all of my veggies from local farmers and eat mostly only those that are in season. Unless I have things like blueberries or strawberries in the freezer from summer, I will not buy them during the winter and pay the outrageous price and think about the thousands of miles they traveled to get to me. YIKES! Eating foods that are in season can be a fun adventure, really. I like to head to my favorite farm “stand” and buy what they have then come home and search my favorite food shows or websites for recipe ideas. Food really taste so much better when you eat it in season. Also, knowing that what goes on the plate for my family’s meals came from within 50 miles of my home is such a great feeling! Here is a wonderful recipe we had last night for dinner:
Meatless Slow Cooker Beef Stew:
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup vegetarian beef gravy
5-6 potatoes scrubbed and quartered
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 parsnip, chopped
3-4 carrots scrubbed and chopped
1 large yellow onion peeled and chopped
2 leeks, cleaned and chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped(more if you like-it’s GREAT for the immune system!)
salt, pepper, thyme, 2 bay leaves
Just put it all in the slow cooker and leave on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
I served with crumbled feta over the top! Yum!
My husband said it tasted just like beef stew without the beef. His only request was some sort of bread or roll next time for soaking up the yummy sauce! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family did!
Your approach to eating sustainably and consciously is truly commendable! Going vegetarian or vegan, even partially, can indeed have a significant positive impact on the environment, health, and finances. Your commitment to sourcing locally grown, seasonal produce not only reduces carbon footprint but also connects you to the community and offers the freshest flavors.
The recipe for the Meatless Slow Cooker Beef Stew sounds delicious and hearty! It’s wonderful how you’ve recreated the essence of a classic beef stew using wholesome vegetables and flavorsome seasonings. The addition of crumbled feta is a brilliant touch, adding that extra layer of taste and texture.
Considering textured vegetable protein might be a great way to introduce a more meat-like element. It’s fantastic how you’re open to experimenting and adjusting recipes to suit your family’s preferences. Your dedication to serving sustainable, delicious meals while being mindful of the planet’s health is truly inspiring!