(This photo has nothing to do with anything. I just hate blogging without pictures, so here’s a terrible photo of the delicious chesnut crème I devoured last week.)
I’ve never been much for weekly meal planning. Even less for sharing said meal plan with the entire world. Until now…
Food shopping for me has always been more about what was available, what looked fresh and what my budget would allow. Blessed with a dynamic outdoor market 3 times per week allows me to keep fresh vegetables and fruits on hand, and usually provides the inspiration for the week’s meals.
Another deciding factor is whether I’m recipe testing for anyone. Thanks to Ricki, Kittee, Celine and Joni, I often don’t have to spend much time creating new and different meals : they do the work for me. Thanks, ladies.
I don’t know why, but I didn’t really understand the utility of sharing a weekly meal plan with the public at large. I’m always a bit afraid of commitment, and always wonder if people really follow through with their plans. What if you change your mind? Or better yet, what if your sweetheart surprises you with vegan sushi (hint, hint Monsieur Fish!)?
This week, however, is different.
Here is what I think we’ll be eating. This might change. I’m not signing a contract or anything. It’s just that I’ve come to realize the utility of sharing my meal plan. So often when people decide to go vegan they think it means re-inventing the wheel. The most common question all vegan are asked is “What do you eat?”, as if the idea of taking animal products from your diet meant the end of delicious meals. By publishing what we’ll be eating chez nous*, I may help someone plan some healthy vegan goodness chez eux*.
Monday : Coconut Red Bean Quinoa from Swell, the lovely little food zine from A-K, aka Swell Vegan. Additions : onion and peas, and maybe some greens.
Tuesday : Cholent from Veganomicon. I’ve never had it or made it, and I feel like I’m missing out on something.
Wednesday : It’s Saint Patrick’s Day! Because I love any and all holidays we’ll be celebrating with Irish Soda Bread from The Joy of Vegan Baking and Colcannon from 500 Vegan Recipes. Yum!
Thursday : Hopefully leftovers.
Friday : Lentil Tart with Tahini Crust served with Ginger & Sesame infused Carrot & Cucumber Salad, both from 500 Vegan Recipes.
Saturday : Homemade vegan pizzas! I’m thinking White Pizzas from 500 Vegan Recipes, but will probably get all punk rock and add sautéed eggplant, pine nuts and who knows what else.
Sunday : Brunch will be the Fluffy, Fruited Pancakes from Sweet Freedom. Love them. I’m thinking a mushroom quiche for dinner, but that may change. Some sort of savory tart I think. EDITED TO ADD: Afternoon goûter or snack brought to me by Kittee – woot!
Ta – da! There you go, the Fish Family’s eats for this week. Until next time, bon appétit everyone!
(I was inspired this week by Libby of The Allergic Kid and Krys of Two Vegan Boys – thanks ladies!)
*our place, their place
Musings From The Fishbowl 
Your Friday meal sound delicious, I think I need to buy 500 Vegan Recipes!
And now I want chestnut spread and we have a whole bunch in our warehouse so I have to be strong and not open a tin and eat it all!
Great to see you blogging Shelly! It sounds like you have a delicious week planned. I can barely plan more than a day in advance but like you have Irish soda bread and colcannon both in mind for tomorrow. I’m going to try this bread with coconut milk yogurt.
I love meal plans, if I can stick to them! But more or less I usually do if I’ve planned them. I haven’t had pizza for a while. Might have a tri-coloured one tomorrow for St. Patrick’s Day!
Shelly is back! A big void in blogland has been filled! All is good with the world again! 😀
What a kickass meal plan! I like planning ahead too, though sometimes I just go with what my body is asking for. The problem is that it asks for brownies and cookies most of the time! 🙂
Dearest Shel, I almost can’t believe it !!! I send you my sweetest hug !!!!