Asian meal plan for vegetarian
The Asian meal plan for vegetarians showcases the variety and richness of vegetarian dishes in Asian cuisine. It includes diverse vegetables, legumes, tofu, and grains, providing a range of nutrients and flavors. Dairy products are also included in diets that allow them, offering additional protein sources.
Meal plan grocery list
Miso paste
Tofu
Seaweed
Brown rice
Thai green curry paste
Mixed vegetables
Jasmine rice
Fresh fruits
Rice paper
Avocado
Carrot
Cucumber
Mint leaves
Peanut sauce
Edamame beans
Korean Bibimbap ingredients
Oats
Almond milk
Chopped nuts
Berries
Sushi ingredients
Seaweed snacks
Chickpeas
Basmati rice
Meal plan overview
Explore the vegetarian delights of Asia with the Asian meal plan for vegetarians. This plan celebrates the diversity of plant-based dishes in Asian cuisine, from stir-fries to curries.
Rich in vegetables, tofu, and grains, it offers a nutritious and flavorful journey through vegetarian Asian cooking.
Foods to eat
- Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu, tempeh, and lentils for essential amino acids.
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat chapatis, and millets for fiber and nutrients.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds for omega-3s and healthy fats.
- Vegetables: A variety of colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and spinach for vitamins and minerals.
- Fruits: Seasonal fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes for natural sweetness and vitamins.
- Plant-Based Milk and Yogurt: Almond milk, soy milk, and coconut yogurt for calcium and probiotics.
- Healthy Oils: Olive oil and coconut oil for cooking.
- Spices and Herbs: Turmeric, ginger, and basil for flavor and health benefits.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- Animal Products: All dairy, meat, and honey are excluded in a vegan diet.
- Processed Vegan Foods: Often high in sodium and artificial additives.
- Refined Carbohydrates: White bread and pasta lack nutritional value.
- Fried Plant-Based Foods: High in calories and unhealthy fats.
- Sugary Vegan Snacks: Cookies and candies high in sugar.
- Sweetened Beverages: Soda and sweetened teas and coffees.
- Alcohol: Can disrupt a healthy diet and is not necessary nutritionally.
- Trans Fats: Found in some processed and fried foods.
Main benefits
The Indian meal plan for vegans adapts traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine to exclude all animal products. It focuses on plant-based proteins like lentils, chickpeas, and beans, along with a variety of vegetables and whole grains. Nuts and seeds are included for additional protein and healthy fats, ensuring a well-rounded vegan diet.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
An Asian meal plan for vegetarians can be diverse and nutritious with these alternatives:
- Use tofu instead of meat for a high-protein option in stir-fries and soups.
- Replace white rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carb intake.
- Opt for nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Include chia seeds in your breakfast smoothies or yogurt for added protein.
- Substitute regular flour with chickpea flour for a high-protein, gluten-free option.
How to budget on this meal plan
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Delight in these vegetarian Asian snacks:
- Vegetable sushi rolls
- Spicy tofu lettuce cups
- Stir-fried green beans with garlic
- Vegetable dumplings
- Roasted seasoned seaweed
- Miso soup with tofu and seaweed
- Chilled lychees for dessert
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For vegetarians following an Asian diet, drinks like soy milk provide protein, while water maintains hydration. Green tea offers antioxidants, and herbal teas such as chamomile or mint provide soothing benefits. Occasional fruit juices offer a vitamin boost but should be taken in moderation due to sugar content.
How to get even more nutrients?
Meal plan suggestion
Asian Vegetarian Meal Plan
Day 1
- Breakfast: Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed, and a side of Brown Rice
- Lunch: Thai Green Curry with Vegetables and Tofu, served with Jasmine Rice
- Snack: Fresh Fruit Salad
- Dinner: Stir-fried Udon Noodles with Mixed Vegetables and Soy Sauce
Day 2
- Breakfast: Vegetable Steamed Dumplings
- Lunch: Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls filled with Avocado, Carrot, Cucumber, and Mint, served with Peanut Sauce
- Snack: Edamame Beans
- Dinner: Korean Bibimbap with Assorted Vegetables, Brown Rice, and a Fried Egg (replace with tofu for a vegan option)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with Almond Milk, topped with Chopped Nuts and Berries
- Lunch: Sushi Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber, Carrot, and Seaweed over Brown Rice
- Snack: Seaweed Snacks
- Dinner: Indian Chana Masala (Chickpea Curry) with Basmati Rice and a side of Raita (use dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Avocado Toast on Whole Grain Bread with Sesame Seeds
- Lunch: Stir-fried Tofu with Broccoli, Bell Peppers, and Cashews, served with Quinoa
- Snack: Sliced Cucumber with Hummus
- Dinner: Japanese Ramen with Vegetable Broth, Noodles, Mushrooms, Spinach, and Carrots
Day 5
- Breakfast: Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, Almond Milk, and a scoop of Protein Powder
- Lunch: Thai Salad with Papaya, Tomatoes, and Peanuts, dressed in a Lime Vinaigrette
- Snack: A small bag of Dried Fruit and Nuts
- Dinner: Vegetable Fried Rice with Peas, Carrots, Corn, and Scrambled Eggs (omit eggs for vegan option)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Steamed Vegetable Bao Buns
- Lunch: Indian Aloo Gobi (Potato and Cauliflower Curry) with Whole Wheat Chapatis
- Snack: Greek Yogurt with Honey and a handful of Berries
- Dinner: Malaysian Laksa Soup with Rice Noodles, Tofu, and Mixed Vegetables
Day 7
- Breakfast: Chia Seed Pudding with Coconut Milk and Mango
- Lunch: Korean Kimchi Pancakes with a Soy Dipping Sauce
- Snack: Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
- Dinner: Chinese Mapo Tofu (spicy Sichuan tofu and mushroom dish) with a side of Steamed Jasmine Rice
Want to learn more?
⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Feb 29, 2024
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024