From Carnivore to Extreme Veganism (Plus a Vegan Ratatouille recipe)

Before I embarked on this 28 day plant-based diet I considered my diet to be pretty stellar. I had no problem with the amount of meat and dairy I ate and to be honest, I didn’t really notice it. I’ve experienced some odd things in days 1 &2 of my journey.

1. How I feel – I couldn’t sleep last night, I was tossing and turning, I was getting hot flashes then the chills, and I have had a headache for 2 days. At first I didn’t make the connection but after reading a few forums and asking around I think I am experiencing withdrawals from meat and dairy. My energy is low and I just don’t feel like myself. From what I have heard this will last a few days, then possibly some G.I issues then it gets much better. It amazes me that my body was in essence addicted to those foods and I’m wondering if that is necessarily a bad thing. Would this happen if I cut out all veggies and fruits? Is it what I cut out or is it that I cut it out cold turkey?
2. Dinner was a success – I was worried about preparing food but I actually whipped a little beans and rice bowl together and sauteed some veggies to throw on top. It was super easy and it tastes delicious. Of course, Corey ate it as a side to his HAMBURGER! He proceeded to sit there and tell me it was the BEST burger he’s made and that I would ABSOLUTELY love it! Really? Thanks honey!
3. Setting myself up for success – Despite feeling horrible I really want to complete this challenge and make it thorough the hard part to see if the grass is greener on the other side. I went to the store last night and LOVED what I saw in the cart. Everything was fresh produce and beans, nothing processed and nothing with a mother. I have found some vegan recipes that I am eager to try and I made a huge pot of quinoa for easy meals on the fly.

Vegan Ratatouille

Ingredients:

• 1 can of Eden Organic Cajun Rice & Beans
• Handful of spinach; diced
• 2 whole carrots; peeled and chopped
• 1/2 yellow onion; chopped
• Handful of mushrooms; chopped
• Handful of cherry tomatoes; chopped
• Optional – cayenne pepper, celery salt, garlic, coriander, etc.

Directions:

1. Saute onions and carrots. (If you want to follow it Engine 2 Diet-style use veggie broth or cooking spray rather than oil to saute)

2. Start heating up your rice and beans in a separate bowl.

3. Once onion and carrots begin to soften, throw the rest of the ingredients (spinach, tomatoes, mushies) into the saute pan. (Add spices to your liking)

4. When everything is heated and cooked to your liking serve veggie dish on top of a scoop of the rice and beans.

Now honestly, I just threw this together with all the veggies I had available in my fridge. You can use whatever veggies or rice mixture you want. I was shocked at how good it was. It was so easy to do, I will make this either as a meal again or as a side dish whenever I’m in a pinch. By the way, I don’t even know if this would be considered ratatouille, I am just lacking in the creative department this morning.