“What’s for dinner?” is a phrase most parents wince at.
There is never a good answer, especially if you have multiple children. One will always adore what you are making while another will be utterly disgusted at the thought.
My eldest came home from school one day and asked if we could do meat-free Mondays every week. He had been learning about the environment and how to do our part and was very passionate about it.
What better way to get some extra veg into them too? Thus Meat-Free Mondays began in our house.
You don’t have to go all out either if you have any dishes that your little ones already love you can easily adapt them to meat-free by substituting an ingredient or two.
Here are some of our favourites:
Veggie Curry
Curry is a favourite in our house. Whatever way you make your curry, do exactly the same but instead of your meat add just about every vegetable you can in. If there are some veg your little one won’t touch, purée it and add it to the sauce.
Tacos
Tacos are so easy. All you have to do is to add Quorn mince instead of beef mince and you are sorted. Most little ones (and husbands!) don’t even notice the difference.
Lentil Bolognese
Another easy option. Instead of mince, add lentils. Again, add in lots of veg and if there are any your little one won’t touch, purée it with the sauce.
Butternut Squash Tikka Massala
If you regularly make tikka masala, this one is also super easy. Substitute your meat for butternut squash squares and a can of chickpeas. It is a firm favourite in our house.
So there you have it. Meat-Free Monday has never been easier - or tastier!