"These are a few of my favorite things..."

Monday the 13th marked the one-month anniversary of my commitment to veganism!  Of course, the celebration was slightly marred by the fact I had to eat a few milk products during my travels over the weekend, but other than that I am really proud of my tenacity in staying dairy-free.  (I'm still doing eggs and honey on occasion given other dietary restrictions that limit me from consuming a lot of grains or soy--as that works itself out, I plan to eliminate eggs next.) 

To celebrate, I thought I would highlight a few of the yummy things I've discovered as a joyful look at the sensory delights of veganism (never mind how good it feels to the spirit!) rather than looking at foods I've had to give up.  I read in a prologue to The Conscious Cook cookbook that one described being vegan as "eating everything except animal-based products." I thought that was such a refreshing way of saying it in a positive way rather than "I don't eat this, this, this, this or that..!" 

A few of my favorite things:

Rice Dream Mint Carob Chip "Frozen Non-Dairy Dessert'  SOOO yummy, I don't know why I'd ever want to go back to ice cream again!  Mint chip has always been my favorite flavor so I'm really, really happy that I will no longer miss the taste of Ben and Jerry's (let alone the calories, haha!)

I also fell in love with some scrumptious hemp ice cream sandwiches while we were in the Denver area over the weekend.  Alas, a local company makes them so it will have to remain a distant, treasured memory now but it did encourage me to try the hemp frozen dairy dessert next time I'm at my local natural foods store.

Sunshine Burgers   I was delighted to come across these tasty "burgers" made with sunflower seeds and rice.  I sometimes love the "burger" feel, with a nice bun, slathered in spicy mustard, with pickles and all the trimmings.  But, I don't like eating processed soy very often and I also try to stay away from wheat gluten. So, I was really happy to find these. I got the original flavor and they are so tasty with a wholesome, nutty goodness and herb flavor but mild enough that it works well with mustard, etc.  Next time I'm at Whole Foods, I'll try more flavors!

I'll post again with more of my favorite finds as the weeks progress. Although I try to make my meals from scratch as much as possible, sometimes it just won't do.  So, let me know if you have any favorites I should check out!