When I was first experimenting with slow cooking, I assumed that I could only make meat dishes. However, my Nana showed me an endless range of recipes you can create using this particular cooking style. From soups and stews to desserts and vegetables, the possibilities are virtually limitless when it comes to slow cooking! And since I have lots of friends who love veggies, I have to learn some of my Nana’s slow-cooked meals for Vegetarian and vegan.
Are Slow-Cooked Oven Meals Good for Vegans?
But before I share my Nana’s delicious vegan slow-cooked meals, I’m sure you’re wondering if this type of cooking is beneficial for your health. Slow-cooked meals maintain a considerable amount of their nutritional value due to the low heat and long cooking time that seals in vitamins and minerals from the ingredients used. Not only are these dishes delicious, but they offer a variety of health benefits as well.
When prepared properly, many slow-cooked vegetables maintain more beneficial nutrients known to fight off diseases than the same type of vegetables prepared on the stovetop. This is because these types of vegetables can benefit from a more extended cooking period, which helps preserve and retain more essential vitamins and minerals needed for good health.
A slow-cooking process can be beneficial for vegetables, as it helps preserve their flavor and texture. This makes them much more appealing to those who are particularly choosy about what they eat, providing a delicious and nutritious meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Additionally, this cooking method is incredibly easy to do and requires minimal effort. All you have to do is simply prepare the ingredients, place them in a slow cooker, turn it on, and wait for your meal to cook itself!
How to Slow Cook Meatless Meals for Vegetarian and Vegan
When cooking vegetarian and vegan slow-cooked meals, Nana taught me a few things that really made every dish I make delicious and nutritious.
Choose the Right Veggies
While slow-cooking your meal, choosing vegetables that can stay in longer heat can give you the best nutritional advantage. Cooking certain ingredients, such as carrots, cabbage, kale, and broccoli, can make them more nutritious than if eaten raw. This is because the process of cooking releases additional vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial to one’s health.
Make Sure the Lid is Tight
To ensure that your vegetables retain their full nutritional value when slow-cooking, it is essential to ensure that the pot’s lid fits tightly over the top. This will help to trap the steam and prevent any nutrients from escaping during cooking. When adding water or broth to the cooker with your vegetables, double-check that you have placed the lid on correctly and securely so as not to lose any valuable vitamins and minerals.
Slow-cooked oven Meals for Vegetarian and Vegan
With proper preparation, we can surely make delicious vegan slow-cooked oven meals just like my grandma. Here are some of her favorite slow-cooked meals for vegetarian and vegan that you can try:
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Nothing is more comforting on a chilly winter day than a steaming bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. This delicious and nutritious dish is the ideal way to warm up your body and soul. Slow cooking is an excellent way to make a delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Soup. Preparing this dish requires simmering the squash in a rich broth mixture for several hours, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and spices to combine and mingle. The result is a velvety-smooth soup that bursts with intense flavor.
Chili with Grains and Beans
If you are a fan of spicy and filling vegan-friendly meals, this chili with grains and beans is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This simple yet flavorful dish can be cooked quickly and easily, making it an ideal choice for those who desire a nutritious vegan meal that has a bit of kick. The combination of grains and beans gives the chili its hearty texture while also providing essential vitamins and minerals to support your health. So if you’re looking for an indulgent vegan meal that will have you coming back for seconds, give this chili with grains and beans recipe a try!
Slow Cooked Vegan Mac and Cheese
For a truly remarkable and unique dining experience, why not try creating your own slow-cooked vegan macaroni and cheese? This delicious dish is sure to tantalize the taste buds of both vegans and non-vegans alike. It’s made with a combination of vegan ingredients such as cashew cream, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The result is an incredibly creamy and flavorful meal that will leave you wanting more!
Garlic Herb Potatoes
Potatoes are a great side dish for any meal, and this slow-cooked garlic herb potato recipe is an absolute must-try! This delectable dish requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor – perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to create something special. The combination of garlic and herbs adds a delicious depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with your favorite entrée.
Lentil Tortilla Soup
You can also try making this vegan lentil tortilla soup to partner with your favorite crunchy, flavorful tortilla toppings. This delicious and nutritious soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine without the use of meat or dairy products. The lentils provide an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables give them a nice texture and flavor. You can top off each bowl with diced avocados, sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro for an extra special touch.
Delicious Bean Enchiladas
If you’re looking for an easy, delicious vegan meal to make, slow-cooking vegan bean enchiladas are definitely the way to go. It’s simple to prepare yet provides a hearty and satisfying dinner that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and left in the slow cooker until ready to serve. Combining beans, spices, chilies, and other ingredients creates an intensely flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds! All you need is some good quality vegan beans, fresh vegetables, tortillas, and your favorite sauces. You can adjust everything else according to personal preference.
