Top 5 Picks for Vegeterian CookingA plant-based diet is low in saturated fat and high in dietary fiber, essential fatty acids and antioxidant nutrients, which reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, arthritis and other chronic degenerative diseases. People who follow a vegetarian diet, however, must ensure that they have an adequate intake of protein, vitamin B12, iron and other nutrients. Here are some books, supplements and foods that may be useful to the vegetarian. Protein powder is one way to ensure an adequate intake of protein. Protein is essential for proper functioning of the immune and detoxification systems. Protein powder can be mixed with water, juice or soy milk as a breakfast drink. An award-winning cookbook that should be on every vegetarian's book shelf. It includes descriptions of vegetables, storage and preparation instructions, complementary ingredients and recipes. A vegetarian cookbook for the home cook who likes bold, global flavors. Madhur Jaffrey is a renowned chef who tells colorful stories and provides recipes, cooking tips and information on grains, vegetables and beans. Quinoa (pronounced "keen-wah") is an excellent plant source of protein. It should be rinsed thoroughly before cooking to prevent a bitter taste, then boiled until tender. Quinoa can be used as a quick-cooking substitute for rice. Fruit and vegetable cleansers can help to remove surface pesticide residues, waxes, fungicides and fertilizers from produce. Soak or spray the cleanser on produce, gently scrub, then rinse. Especially useful for tomatoes, lettuce, apples, peaches, grapes, peppers and cucumbers.
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