Vegetarian Food Lover: Vegetarianism and Sustainability

Should you consider vegetarianism a key contributor to sustainability? Vegetarianism or shifting to a plant-based diet also plays a big role in climate change or sustainability. Overall, this blog post is to raise awareness about the connection between vegetarianism and sustainability.

There is not enough discussion about this topic, which is why I chose to cover it in this blog post. Also, I share my personal experience of choosing vegetarian dishes around the world to enjoy different cultures of food without compromising my dietary preferences.

Many organizations in the U.S. and Canada are not discussing this topic, including Prince Harry in his Travelyst project. While we strive to protect wildlife, we still consume cows and fish for their supposed health benefits. Additionally, while we talk about reducing our alcohol and caffeine intake, we often overlook the impact of our meat consumption.

What is actually vegetarian or vegetarianism? Why is it different than vegan or eggetarian?

There’s the level of flexibility when transitioning to a vegetarian diet is important as it varies from person to person. Some may choose to be fully vegetarian, while others may occasionally consume meat or egg products. Some people find it difficult to give up dairy products but emphasize the environmental benefits of reducing animal agriculture.

The challenges of being a vegetarian while traveling and the confusion that arises while selecting vegan dishes, so I always ask questions and learn about that food.

Even when we travel as a whole family, we intend to hire a chef who can make some unique dishes based on our taste and preferred ingredients to enjoy that food in other countries than our home country.

What level of flexibility can one have to be fully vegetarian or to eat a vegetarian diet? Some are fully flexible, while others are rarely or only for one meal.

People often ask me how I get those nutrients and vitamins. And my answer is that when making the transition, it’s common to wonder about obtaining the equivalent vitamins and nutrients found in meat and other animal products. Fortunately, these can be replaced with plant-based alternatives such as anti-aging beans, lentils, legumes, green leafy or fiber-based vegetables, grains, rice, and fresh juices.

As a vegetarian traveler, I have had the opportunity to travel to various destinations and sample some of the best vegetarian food in the world.

Here I share my top 16 destinations for delicious vegetarian food.

1. Incredible India

India is a land of diverse cultures and culinary delights that are deeply ingrained in its heritage. Food and hospitality are integral parts of Indian culture, offering a vast array of options to indulge in. From traditional local eateries serving a multitude of cuisines to fine dining experiences, India has it all. If you’re curious to learn more about the unique and flavourful cuisines of India, check out this blog post featuring my favorite cuisine photos from my travels to India last year.

2. Toronto, Canada

I always found a little bit of home in Toronto, and food is the best way to connect and feel the essence of my hometown in India. There are plenty of cuisines and restaurants to indulge in, but my favorite restaurant is Khazana by famous Indian Chef Sanjive Kapoor, who brought his flavors to Toronto, Canada, the one I visited in Brampton. Another restaurant where I enjoy south Indian food is GuruLuxmi and street food or buffet from Brar in Brampton, which I could say I grew up eating during my last ten years in Canada.

3. New York, USA

When it comes to fine dining in New York City, there are many options for vegetarians to indulge in. One vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in New York City is the “Vegetable Tasting” at Gramercy Tavern. This dish features a selection of seasonal vegetables prepared in creative and delicious ways, such as roasted cauliflower with tahini, parsnip puree with truffle vinaigrette, and charred broccolini with almond pesto. The dish is beautifully presented and uses high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients to create a truly memorable dining experience.

4. Mexico

In Mexico, this traditional dish, called Chiles en Nogada, is a poblano pepper stuffed with a mixture of fruits, nuts, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds. It is a beautiful and flavorful dish that represents the colors of the Mexican flag and is typically served during the country’s Independence Day celebrations.

5. Costa Rica

One vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in Costa Rica is the “Vegetable Curry with Coconut Milk”. This dish features a variety of fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, cooked in a rich and creamy coconut milk-based curry sauce. The dish is typically served with fragrant basmati rice and a side of freshly baked naan bread. This flavorful and aromatic dish showcases the abundance of fresh produce available in Costa Rica and is a must-try for any vegetarian looking for a high-end dining experience in the country.

6. Cuba

This mouthwatering dish is called “Ropa Vieja, ” a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded seitan instead of beef. It is typically served with rice, black beans, and sweet plantains and is a flavorful and hearty option for vegetarians dining in Cuba.

7. Sydney

One vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in Sydney is the “Eggplant Involtini” served at Yellow restaurant. This dish features tender eggplant slices wrapped around a delicious mixture of ricotta cheese, basil, and tomato sauce, then topped with shaved parmesan cheese and baked to perfection. It’s a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that showcases the best of seasonal produce and innovative culinary techniques.

8. London, UK

At the Ledbury in London, one vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy is the wild mushroom risotto. The dish features a variety of locally-sourced wild mushrooms combined with rich, creamy Arborio rice and finished with a drizzle of truffle oil. It’s a decadent and satisfying dish that showcases the flavors of the season, and it’s sure to impress even the most discerning vegetarian foodies.

9. Italy

When it comes to fine dining in Rome, Italy, there are a plethora of options for vegetarians to indulge in. However, one dish that stands out as a must-try is the Spaghetti alla Chitarra with Italian wine.

This dish features thin strands of homemade spaghetti, often made with semolina flour, that are cut using a special guitar-like tool called a chitarra. The pasta is then served with a rich tomato-based sauce that is cooked with fresh herbs like basil and oregano.

To take the dining experience to the next level, it is highly recommended to pair this dish with a glass of Italian wine. With a long history of winemaking, Italy is known for producing some of the finest wines in the world, and pairing a delicious pasta dish with great Italian wine is a match made in heaven.

Enjoying Spaghetti alla Chitarra with a glass of Italian wine in the heart of Rome is an experience that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also transport you to the heart of Italy’s culinary culture.

10. Paris

One vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in Paris is the classic French dish Ratatouille . Made with a blend of vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers, it is a hearty and flavorful option for vegetarians. Served with a side of crusty bread and paired with a glass of French red wine, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy in a cozy Parisian bistro.

11. Interlaken, Switzerland

One of the best dining experiences in Interlaken is enjoying Swiss cheese potato rosti at Harder Kulm. Harder Kulm is a mountain peak located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

At the Harder Kulm restaurant, you can indulge in the traditional Swiss dish of potato rosti, which is a crispy, golden-brown pancake made of grated potatoes and topped with melted Swiss cheese. The dish is typically served with a side of fresh salad or vegetables, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of Swiss wine or beer.

The restaurant itself is a modern, elegant space with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the mountains. You can dine indoors or on the outdoor terrace, depending on your preference and the weather. Overall, enjoying Swiss cheese potato Rösti at Harder Kulm is a must-do dining experience in Interlaken, offering a combination of delicious cuisine and stunning views.

12. Amsterdam

One vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in Amsterdam is the Dutch Weed Burger at The Dutch Weed Burger Joint. This unique burger is made with a plant-based patty that includes seaweed as a key ingredient, which is sourced locally in the Netherlands. It’s served on a black bun with vegan cheddar cheese, lettuce, and a special sauce made from Dutch seaweed. Not only is it delicious and innovative, but it’s also a sustainable and eco-friendly option, making it a must-try dish for any vegetarian visiting Amsterdam.

13. Singapore

This delicious vegetarian fine dining dish to enjoy in Singapore is the ‘Mushroom Charcoal Tagliatelle’ served at Joie by Dozo. This dish features handmade black charcoal tagliatelle pasta tossed in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, with sautéed mushrooms and truffle oil adding depth and complexity to the flavor. It is a beautifully presented dish that not only tastes amazing, but also looks like a work of art on the plate. Joie by Dozo is a vegetarian restaurant located in Orchard Central, which offers a unique culinary experience with a focus on quality ingredients and elegant presentation.

14. Malaysia

This staple dish is called Nasi Lemak in Malaysia and can be found at many fine dining restaurants across the country. This traditional dish is a fragrant coconut rice dish that is served with a variety of vegetarian accompaniments, such as crispy fried tempeh, spicy sambal sauce, fresh cucumber slices, and roasted peanuts. The combination of the fragrant rice and the flavorful accompaniments creates a delicious and satisfying meal for any vegetarian food lover.

15. Dubai

The Spiced Eggplant with Feta and Pomegranate is a great vegetarian option in Dubai. This dish features grilled eggplant marinated in miso and mirin, then topped with crumbled feta cheese and sweet pomegranate seeds. It is a flavorful and beautifully presented dish that is sure to delight vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. You can also find this dish at a few upscale and trendy places for a special occasion or a romantic night out in Dubai.

16. Egypt, Africa

As an avid traveler and vegetarian food enthusiast, I have been planning my next adventure to Egypt in 2024. I am excited to immerse myself in the culture, history, and of course, the local cuisine. As I research the best vegetarian dishes to try in Egypt, one that keeps popping up is Koshari.

Koshari is a popular Egyptian street food made of a mixture of lentils, rice, chickpeas, and macaroni, topped with crispy fried onions and served with a spicy tomato sauce. It’s a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on the go.

What I love about Koshari is not only its delicious flavor but also its cultural significance. It’s a dish that represents the diverse culinary influences in Egypt, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. Plus, as a vegetarian, it’s reassuring to know that there are plenty of meat-free options to choose from in a country that has a predominantly meat-based diet.

I can’t wait to try Koshari and other vegetarian dishes in Egypt during my trip next year. I’m excited to explore the local food scene and discover new flavors and culinary traditions.

But being a vegetarian doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious food. In fact, some of the most mouthwatering dishes in the world are vegetarian. From creamy mushroom risotto to spicy black bean tacos, there’s no shortage of delicious meat-free meals to satisfy your taste buds.

And let’s not forget about all the amazing health benefits of being a vegetarian. Studies have shown that vegetarians have lower rates of heart disease, obesity, and certain types of cancer. Plus, a plant-based diet is packed with all the nutrients your body needs to thrive, like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. So the next time someone asks you why you’re a vegetarian, just tell them you’re doing your part to save the planet, enjoy delicious food, and stay healthy all at the same time!

I want to make it clear that sharing this post does not imply that I am against people adopting a carnivore diet. It is entirely an individual choice based on their preferences, survival needs, and dietary requirements. If my family members choose to be nonvegetarian, I respect their food choices and let them indulge in them. However, I have personally chosen a vegetarian lifestyle for myself.

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