From amateur to professional: vegan cooking tricks to elevate your dishes

As veganism continues to rise in popularity, more and more people are looking for ways to elevate their plant-based dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just starting out, these cooking hacks will help you take your dishes to the next level.

1. Use fresh herbs

Herbs are a great way to add flavor and freshness to your dishes. Instead of using dried herbs, choose fresh herbs whenever possible. Some common options include basil, cilantro, parsley, and mint. Not only does it add a touch of flavour, but it also adds a splash of color to your dishes.

2. Get creative with seasonings

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices in your vegetarian cooking. From cumin and paprika to turmeric and coriander, there are countless spices to choose from. They can help add depth and complexity to your dishes, taking them from ordinary to extraordinary.

3. Invest in high-quality cookware

Good cookware can make a big difference in the kitchen. Invest in high-quality pots, pans, and utensils to make sure your food cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan. Non-stick pans are especially useful when cooking vegetarian dishes, because they often contain ingredients that can easily stick to the bottom of the pan.

4. Make your own vegan cheese

While store-bought vegan cheese can be convenient, making your own can take your dishes to the next level. There are countless recipes online for homemade vegan cheese using ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and agar agar. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect cheese for your dishes.

5. Embrace umami flavours

Umami, often referred to as the fifth taste, is a delicious, rich flavor that can add depth to your dishes. Ingredients such as mushrooms, miso paste, and soy sauce are great sources of umami. Adding these ingredients to your vegetarian dishes can help make them more satisfying and flavorful.

6. Learn the art of pressing tofu

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it is important to press it before using it to remove excess water. Invest in a tofu press or use the weighted plate method to press the tofu, which results in a firmer texture and better flavor absorption when cooked.

7. Experiment with different cooking methods

Instead of always relying on the stove, try experimenting with different cooking methods such as roasting, grilling and steaming. Each method can bring out different flavors and textures in your ingredients, helping to take your dishes to new heights.

8. Make delicious sauces and seasonings

Sauces and dressings can take a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and acidic ingredients like lemon juice and vinegar to create delicious sauces and seasonings that can be used to enhance the flavor of your dishes.

9. Carefully decorated

Don’t ignore the power of well-placed decorations. Fresh herbs, toasted nuts, and citrus peel can add the perfect finishing touch to your dishes, taking them from ordinary to visually stunning.

10. Practice mindful cooking

Above all, practice thoughtful cooking. Pay attention to the flavours, textures and aromas of your ingredients as you cook. By sharpening your senses and paying attention to detail, you can elevate your dishes and take your vegan cooking to a professional level.

With these cooking hacks, you can take your vegetarian dishes from amateur to professional in no time. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your everyday meals, these tips will help you create delicious, satisfying, and truly memorable vegetarian dishes.