Want more customers? Or more variety FOR your customers??
OFFER VEGETARIAN FOOD!!
What is a vegetarian??
There are several different types of diets that a person calling themselves "vegetarian" may follow.
fruitarian: eats only the fruits and seeds of a plant, the parts "that were meant to be eaten." Does not eat tofu or other processed products.
vegan: eats only plants and plant products. they do not eat ANYTHING from an animal, including broth, cheese, cream, or any other dairy products. true vegans do not eat honey or yeast.
lacto vegetarian: eats plants and dairy products. anything that does not require the killing of animals or their embryos. mahatma gandhi was this type of vegetarian.
ovo-lacto vegetarian: eats plants, dairy products, and eggs. eating eggs is generally not considered killing animals. common in the US.
pescotarian: eats plants, dairy products, eggs, and seafood.
How do I work with what I already have?
Simple! There are many ways to offer vegetarian/vegan options without changing your menu!
1. If you want a healthier menu, offer less fried foods! It is very important the fried foods you offer be fried in vegetable oil (that is not the same oil used to fry meats and fish). This will open many doors and options to your clients!
2. Offer salad dressings and sauces that are not cream or meat based. This one is very important for vegetarians, vegans, or people who are simply watching their weight. Heavy cream salad dressings add unnecessary fat, while a good balsamic vinaigrette does wonders. A light mango dressing or papaya puree would be so much better!!
3. Watch those beans! Offer beans with calabaza instead of pork or butter (Country Crock). They taste better & and not only are lighter and less filling, but also are much less in fat. If someone chooses to have pork, you can always add it as a side to your beans!
4. ROOTS!! Offer root substitutes for meat. Many dishes have a heavy reliance on spices, and with yucca or plantain, you would not know the difference. The substitute can be offered, if not permanently on the menu.
5. Be creative! Offer your menu items with or without meat, and offer many vegetable substitutes! Remember, vegetables covered in butter may not be attractive to many of your veggie clients… or anyone trying to watch their weight! Also, experiment! The Caribbean offers the most array of exotic fruits and tasty vegetables, don't be afraid of them!
Offer other methods of cooking like baked or broiled. The cooking time might be longer, but the results will be a LOT less greasy!
