Deliciously Simple Veggie-Centric Dinner Ideas for Every Night | Good Food

What to make for dinner? It’s a question that can bring joy or stress. Cookbook author Meera Sodha knows this feeling all too well. After losing her cooking spark, she created her new book, Dinner: 120 Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes for the Most Important Meal of the Day. In it, she shares how she found her passion again and offers a variety of delicious vegetarian recipes.

Meera’s path back to the kitchen started with a simple request from her husband. He needed her support after cooking and caring for their family for months. She found herself in the pantry, pulling together a Malaysian dal with lentils, tomatoes, and coconut milk—ingredients she had on hand. This meal wasn’t just cooking; it was a connection to her past, reminding her of their travels in Singapore.

“Cooking should come from love, not just obligation,” Meera reflects. That night in the kitchen, she felt an energy flowing back, transforming her experience from a chore into a joyful act.

Eggplant, featured prominently in her book, is another passion of Meera’s. Despite being a polarizing vegetable for some, she believes it has incredible versatility. “Eggplants can shift from meaty to creamy,” she says, highlighting their rich texture. In fact, they often serve as a perfect substitute in dishes for those trying to eat more plant-based meals.

Another recipe that stands out in her book is called “Ben Benton Strikes Again,” named after a friend. This dish features braised eggplant and celery, showcasing how simple ingredients can shine together. Meera loves using Lao Gan Ma chili oil, known for its unique flavor profile, which includes kohlrabi, peanuts, and tofu. This chili oil enhances the dish, allowing even the most basic ingredients to transform into something remarkable.

Recent data shows a rise in plant-based cooking, with a USDA report noting a 300% increase in meat alternative sales over recent years. People are seeking healthier, environmentally friendly options. This shift is also reflected on social media platforms, where hashtags like #MeatlessMonday are trending, encouraging home cooks to explore vegetarian dishes.

As for broccoli, also featured in her recipes, Meera processes it to create a vibrant, green sauce. This quick method allows cooks to enjoy this staple vegetable in new and exciting ways, ensuring that it doesn’t go to waste in the fridge.

Finally, for something sweet, Meera suggests matcha mochi cakes or a refreshing bubble tea ice cream made with instant boba balls, making summer desserts both easy and delicious.

In summary, Meera Sodha’s journey back to cooking is a reminder of the joy food can bring, especially when it’s made with love and creativity. If you’re looking for inspiration or trying to break out of a cooking rut, her book is filled with recipes that transform everyday ingredients into memorable meals.

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