Veggie Packed Meal Ideas to Try During a Meat Shortage

Recently, CNN, Bloomberg, and other news sources have reported on the number of meat processing plants being shut down around the United States in response to COVID19. With all of these closures and the effect that they have on the meat supply chain, there’s a chance that there may be shortages in meat at your local grocery store within the next few weeks. 

Even with shortages in meat, there are still plenty of opportunities to eat healthy, filling meals. Below are some vegetarian and vegan recipes that we, at EATS, highly recommend. 

Vegan

Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw

With all of the smoky, spicy flavors you love from beef and pork tacos (like cayenne pepper, chili powder, and garlic) and the hearty calories from sweet potatoes and black beans, you’ll be full and happy after eating these. Top it with some cabbage slaw to add colors, nutrients, texture, and to broaden the flavor profile. 

Immune Boosting Pasta

A twist on an old reliable: pasta and red sauce. We swapped ground beef with lentils in this recipe to add protein and fiber. This is the perfect recipe to make for kiddos who are hesitant to try new things. 

Roasted Broccoli Pasta Salad with Hemp Pesto

This super simple recipe comes together with just 10 ingredients. Check it out for a creamy take on vegan pesto. You will not be disappointed!

Vegetarian

Tortilla Soup

This recipe is super easy to make and super easy to adapt to whatever you have in your cupboards. It makes quite a few servings; perfect for family dinnertime. It can easily be made vegan by those who’d like to by choosing to not add shredded cheese on top at the end. 

Mango Burrito Bowls with Crispy Tofu and Peanut Sauce

This tropical bowl is the perfect summertime dinner. The leftovers of this bowl keep super well, making it a nice idea for meal prep or something that the kids could easily grab out of the refrigerator if they’re hungry while you’re busy. Make it vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey in the sauce. **Contains peanuts**

Vegetable Stir Fry

Craving takeout? Make this recipe instead of waiting for it to be delivered. It’s almost as quick and uses fresh whole foods. To make it vegan: use maple syrup instead of honey when the recipe calls for it. 

All of these recipes are nutrient-dense, complete, and incredibly tasty. Let us know if you give them a try! Who knows, you may find yourself participating in Meatless Mondays more often even after meats return to grocery stores at their normal volume.