So, you’ve stopped eating meat. Now what?

So, you’ve decided to give meat a break. Maybe it’s for health reasons, maybe you’re experimenting, or maybe you just realized you’ve been eating chicken curry three times a day and need a change. Whatever your reason, welcome to the world of plant-based choices!

What happens next? Will you turn into a superhuman fuelled by lentils and leafy greens? Or will you be found crying in front of a burger joint at midnight? Let’s find out.

Week 1: The great craving showdown
If you’ve spent your life worshipping the smoky perfection of tandoori chicken or the spicy kick of mutton curry, your taste buds might panic at first. Meat has that deep, rich, umami-packed flavour, and your brain will want it back. But don’t worry, there are ways to trick it.

Meaty alternatives (without the meat):

• Mushrooms – Portobello, shiitake, or even simple button mushrooms give you that satisfying bite.
• Fermented foods – Miso, kimchi, and soy sauce bring the funk and depth you crave.
• Roasted vegetables – Caramelized onions, slow-roasted tomatoes, and crispy eggplant pack serious flavour.
• Nuts and seeds – Toasted cashews, sesame, and almonds add crunch and richness.

Try this: Miso-glazed mushrooms with garlic rice—because umami is your new best friend.

Month 1: Energy boost or nap time?

Some people feel amazing after ditching meat. Others… not so much. If you suddenly feel like you need a nap every two hours, don’t panic. You might just need to up your protein and iron game.

Power-packed meat-free foods:

• Legumes – Chickpeas, black beans, and lentils are your new gym buddies.
• Whole grains – Quinoa, millets, and brown rice keep you full and energized.
• Dark leafy greens – Spinach and moringa (yes, the one your grandma swore by) keep iron levels in check.
• Coconut-based curries – Because healthy fats = happy energy levels.

TRY THIS: Kerala-style kadala curry with puttu—protein, fibre, and comfort in one plate.

Month 3: Wait, this actually tastes good?
By now, you’re discovering that food without meat isn’t just survivable—it’s actually pretty exciting. The secret? Spices, textures, and good cooking techniques.

How to make your meals pop:

• Spices, spices, spices – Freshly ground garam masala, sambar powder, and crushed pepper go a long way.
• Slow roasting & smoking – A smoked eggplant curry can outshine any kebab.
• Flavour layering – Sauté garlic and onions, add tomatoes, and finish with fresh herbs like curry leaves or coriander.

TRY THIS: Smoky baingan bharta with soft phulkas—fire-roasted goodness in every bite.

6 months in: You’ve got this (mostly)

At this point, cooking without meat feels pretty normal. Your gut is happier, your spice rack is your new best friend, and you know exactly which lentil does what.

But maybe you’re still wondering… what about protein?

If you’re hitting the gym or just want to stay strong, don’t forget these power foods:

• Peanuts and almonds – Snack on them, add them to curries, or blend into a shake.
• Tofu and paneer – If you eat dairy, paneer is a solid protein source. If not, tofu is a great swap.
• Eggs – Not technically meat, but if you eat them, they’re an easy protein fix.
• Chia seeds and flaxseeds – Small but mighty.

TRY THIS: Jackfruit biryani with coconut raita—because sometimes, you just need a grand feast.

Meat or no meat—your choice!
Giving up meat doesn’t mean you have to live on sad salads and air-fried tofu (unless you want to). It’s about experimenting, finding what works for you, and keeping things delicious. Maybe you go fully vegetarian, maybe you just cut back, or maybe you change your mind in six months. That’s cool too.

Just remember: Good food is about flavour, balance, and enjoying the process. Meat or no meat, as long as your plate is tasty, you’re doing it right.

Would you like more meat-free recipe ideas? Let us know in the comments!