Have you ever wondered what this whole ‘vegan’ movement is about? These days there’s an abundance of animal-free products on grocery shelves. Restaurants specializing in meatless and dairy-free cuisine are gaining popularity in many cities. People adopt a vegan way of eating for many different reasons. Some are concerned about how animals are treated on factory farms. Others are curious about the benefits of eating more vegetables, whole grains and fruit.
The Seattle Public Library has a wealth of vegan cookbooks that explore new takes on old, meat-based favorites as well as world cuisines that don’t rely on animal products for flavor or substance. The following titles are suitable for the experienced vegan chef, but are geared more for those new to vegan cooking. The food photos within them are enough to make anyone hungry!
Spork-Fed, by Jenny Engel & Heather Goldberg
A cookbook brought to you by two sisters whose mission is to bring fun, easy vegan cooking into your kitchen. The success of their cooking school spawned “Spork-Fed,” a book considered an introduction to vegan cuisine. Accompanied by many food photos, the recipes are easy to follow and peppered with silly “Sporkie” terminology–don’t worry, there’s a glossary to guide you!
Veganomicon, by Isa Chandra Moskowitz & Terry Hope Romero
If there were to be a vegan bible, this book would be it. “Veganomicon” is similar to “Joy of Cooking” in that all the basic cooking techniques and ingredients are presented early on. Recipes included are suitable for beginners cooking a simple, everyday meal for two or the expert preparing a meatless Thanksgiving feast. The authors write with a simplicity and wit that might make you want to read this book cover to cover.
Veganize This, by Jenn Shagrin 
This book challenges the reader to transform the typical greasy American fast food meal into a greasy vegan version. “Veganize This” includes brightly colored pages and easy-to-follow recipes for dishes like Quattro Formaggio White Truffle Macaroni and Cheese and Vegan Twinkies. Those who might be newly vegetarian or vegan and find themselves missing meaty, cheesy meals will find this book enticing.
Blissful Bites, by Christy Morgan
“Blissful Bites” begins the way any good vegan cookbook should: with a list of must-have utensils and basic ingredients for everyday cooking. What sets this book apart from others is its subcategories for different dishes. Recipes are divided seasonally, encouraging you to take advantage of fresh, local produce. Icons denote if a recipe is soy-free or gluten-free, and if it takes 45 minutes or less to prepare.
Leave a Comment