Whether you’re vegetarian or follow a strictly plant-based diet, there’s no reason why you should have to miss out on the joy of ordering great takeaway. Whatever cuisine takes your fancy, choosing the vegetarian option is no longer the dull choice. In fact, there are so many delicious veggie dishes available now that they’re often chosen by meat-eaters as well — and there are plenty of great meat alternatives out there too. If you’re in need of some veggie or vegan takeaway inspiration, read on.
Indian
Indian cuisine has much deliciousness to offer you, whether you’re a vegan or vegetarian, there’s no reason for you to miss out on the hearty flavours of Indian cooking. Vegetarian curries such as vegetable biriyani, saag and warming dhal (made with lentils) make a tasty and healthy Indian takeaway, with vegetarian and vegan-friendly sides, such as Bombay potato adding the finishing touch. If you’re vegetarian, palak paneer is another mouthwatering dish, featuring cubes of Indian cottage cheese cooked in pureed spinach. And you’ll be pleased to hear that samosas remain firmly on the menu for vegetarians and vegans alike, thanks to the fact that they’re traditionally made with pastry that contains no butter or egg.
Chinese
If it’s a Chinese takeaway you’re craving, you’ll find vegetarian and vegan diets well catered-for in Chinese cuisine, which has plenty of tasty plant-based dishes thanks to the fact that its Buddhist monks practice vegetarianism (a favourite Chinese New Year veggie dish being known as ‘Buddha’s Delight’). What could be more delicious and vegan-friendly than a tasty vegetable stir-fry, veggie Chow Mein or fiery Dragon Noodles? Or you can try Sweet ‘n’ Sour Tofu or tangy Kung Pao cauliflower. Add in some vegetarian spring rolls or veggie gyoza to start, and some rice on the side, and you have the perfect Chinese night in.
Italian
Pizza has to be the ultimate vegetarian dish, doesn’t it? Providing you leave off any meat or fish toppings, the pizza world is your oyster, with everything from a basic margherita to a veggie pizza loaded with peppers, onions, mushrooms and other vegetable delights (and plenty of mozzarella or goats’ cheese, for vegetarians). An increasing number of takeaway pizza places are catering for vegan diets now too, so if you want a purely plant-based pizza then be sure to request vegan cheese.
While we’re on the subject of Italian takeaways, there are plenty of vegetarian- and vegan-friendly pasta dishes, too. Spinach and ricotta ravioli or veggie lasagne are both mouthwatering choices for vegetarians, while vegans can go for pasta dishes with a simple yet delicious tomato sauce, such as penne arrabiata.
Japanese
If you’re in the mood for Japanese food, traditional treats such as edamame beans and miso aubergine are vegan anyway — but you’d be surprised by how many dishes traditionally made with meat are now available with meat substitutes. Swap chicken for tofu or THIS Isn’t Chicken and you have yourself a vegan version of your favourite dishes, such as chicken teriyaki or chicken katsu.
Then, there’s sushi. There’s a whole lot more to sushi than raw fish, and whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of delicious sushi options for you. While fish may be the standard sushi roll filling or nigiri topping, vegan-friendly fillings and toppings include cucumber, avocado, carrot, sweet potato, tofu, aubergine and more. And, if you don’t mind eating eggs, you can even get sushi rolls with omelette in them.
Burgers
Veggie burgers have come a long way, so wherever you find burgers on a menu you’ll probably also find a veggie version. These come in a variety of forms, from squeaky halloumi burgers to patties made with spicy Mexican beans. If you’re vegan, you can’t go wrong with a bean-based burger or one made with a decadent portobello mushroom. And there’s no reason why you should have to miss out on having cheese in your burger, thanks to the increasingly widespread availability of vegan cheese.
Mexican
With veggie versions of all your favourite Mexican dishes, you’ll have plenty of choice if it’s the spicy flavours of Mexican cuisine you’re after. Veggie and vegan fajitas, burritos, tacos, quesadillas and burrito bowls can be filled with all sorts of tasty plant-based ingredients such as black beans, sweetcorn, tofu or plant-based beef or chicken substitutes, with lashings of vegan-friendly salsa and guacamole. Even better, vegan, dairy-free versions of cheese and sour cream mean you don’t even need to go without these tasty extras.
Kebabs
Mediterranean kebabs are a great option whether you’re vegetarian or vegan. Think grilled skewers loaded up with tomatoes, onions, courgettes and peppers, with tasty halloumi cheese if you’re vegetarian and a dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan. Order a Greek salad of tomatoes, onions and olives on the side and you’re all set. With more and more kebab takeaways offering fantastic vegetarian and vegan choices on their menus, you might even be able to find a veggie version of the classic doner kebab.
With so many great vegetarian and vegan options to choose from, your only difficulty will be deciding which tempting dish to try next! If our rundown of the best vegetarian and vegan takeaways has got your tummy rumbling, head over to ChefOnline, put in your postcode and get ordering. Your favourite plant-based treats are practically just around the corner!
