Tips for giving vegan a go!

Starting out the year vegan? We’ve got some great tips on how to dabble with meat-free in January and beyond!

Going vegan in January is growing in popularity every year – and no wonder. Beginning the new year with a healthy focus is a great way to set up your 2023. And, because meat is usually the most expensive part of a meal, it’s good for the shopping bills, as well as for your body.

These ideas can help you get off to a great start.

Stock up on what you already like

Remember, a lot of what you already eat – like pasta, rice, veggies (fresh and canned) – is vegan. Our Honest Value range gives you high quality essentials for less (and often fair trade) and by having lots of these to hand, you’re less likely to be caught short at mealtimes.

Plan your alternatives

Think of all the things you eat most days – like butter and milk – and order in equivalent amounts of your favourite alternative. Our GRO range of delicious plant-based alternatives gives you so much choice on everything, from ravioli, to ready meals, to Rocky Road bites.

Start exploring!

Often it works great to swap in meat substitutes (hello spag bol made with GRO Meat Free Tender Mince) but other times it makes sense to try something completely new. A great place to start is these two awesome recipes shared with us by BAFTA-winning TV chef Big Zuu – Potato & pepper curry and Chickpea & spinach pasta.

Batch cook

Having something tasty you can grab from the freezer and stick in the microwave will be your friend when days are long and motivation is low. This Mediterranean-style vegetable stew can be quickly heated up and served either on its own or with rice or potatoes.  

Don’t be boring

Quarter pounders. Mango & Passionfruit yoghurt. Our amazing Choc Chunk Cookies. There really is no excuse for a dull vegan meal, so make sure you add some indulgent treats into your weekly shop.

You don’t have to go (ahem) cold turkey

It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You may just want to reduce your meat intake, or justgo vegan on weekdays. If you’re new to veganism, it’s better to see this as exploring something, rather than a challenge that you either pass or fail.

Being vegan for January will encourage you to try new things and you’ll almost certainly head into February with new favourite dishes to enjoy throughout 2023. Start planning now with our amazing GRO range.