Going Vegetarian at Kate’s Kitchen
There are many reasons why individuals make the choice to reduce their meat consumption or switch to a meat-free diet. Vegetarians are those who abstain from consuming meat and sometimes animal by-products. But did you know that there are different types of vegetarians? Whether you make the change for your health, for the animals, or the environment, there are numerous benefits to a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you are an ovo-lacto-vegetarian, lacto-vegetarian, or vegan, Kate’s Kitchen has options to accommodate your specific needs! Let's take a look at all the reasons someone might choose to become a vegetarian and what path of vegetarianism you should go down.
Reasons Why You Might Choose to Go Vegetarian
Health: Being a vegetarian is an investment in your health and longevity. The Physicians Committee states that plant-based diets remove carcinogens from the body and fight off disease with antioxidants and cancer-fighting compounds. ADA research also shows that individuals have lower risks of heart disease, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes resulting in an increased quality of life and a lower mortality rate.
Animals: A lot of people become vegetarians for moral reasons, seeking to cause the least amount of harm possible to animals. On average meat eaters will consume around 3,000 land animals and 6,000 marine animals in their lifetimes.
Environment: Animal-based agriculture takes a tole on the environment and will be difficult to sustain in the future. It is the number one cause of deforestation, air pollution, and water pollution. Sustaining a meat-eating culture requires 20 times more land, 14 times more water, and from 10 to 20 times more consumption of fossil fuels and other energy sources, than plant-based culture of the same size. Being a vegetarian is a great way to “go green” and do your part to protect the planet.
If any of those reasons for going vegetarian sound appealing to you, read on!
What is an Ovo-Lacto Vegetarian?
An ovo-lacto vegetarian is a vegetarian who consumes eggs and dairy but not meat, poultry, or fish. This is the most common type of vegetarian and it's great for those who want to cut out meat but still keep all of their other favorite dishes like a breakfast omelet, cheese and items with ingredients like eggs and dairy. they can and Here are some ovo-lacto-friendly options here at Kate's Kitchen.
VERY VEGGIE OMELET - Peppers, mushrooms, fresh asparagus, onions, and Jack cheese served with a side of hollandaise and a cup of fruit. This entrée is a perfect vegetarian dish that offers protein and veggies in every bite!
CHEESY, CHEESY, CHEESY OMELET - A classic 3-cheese omelet that has been upgraded to a Kate's Kitchen's staple. The three different types of cheeses give a rich taste so filling that you won't miss the meat at all!
IN THE GARDEN - Cholesterol-free eggs scrambled with spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, and Jack cheese. Served with a side of salsa, fresh fruit, and toast. This well-rounded meal provides you with everything you could possible need/want to start your day. The wide range of colorful foods on this plate will nourish you with healthy vitamins and fiber!
FRENCH TOAST/PANCAKE/WAFFLE/CINNAMON ROLL - If you're wanting something on the sweeter side, these breakfast classics are perfect. Made from scratch with fresh eggs and milk, they fit into your ovo-lacto vegetarian diet and are delicious!
What is a Lacto Vegetarian?
A lacto vegetarian is a vegetarian who consumes dairy but not meat, poultry, fish, or eggs. While they don't eat eggs, omelets, and some baked goods because they contain eggs, they can still enjoy delicious yogurts, cheeses, and milk! Here at Kate's Kitchen, we have some lacto-friendly options to suit your dietary restrictions.
BREAKFAST BANANA SPLIT - Yogurt, granola, fresh berries, surrounded by a banana and dusted with powdered sugar. Served with the muffin of the day. This will definitely make you feel like you are eating dessert instead of breakfast. The yogurt offers protein, calcium, vitamins, an minerals. Topped off with fresh fruit and granola, it doesn't get much better than this sweet dish.
BERRY NICE CREPES - Two made-to-order crepes filled with fresh fruit. Topped with strawberry yogurt, granola, and powdered sugar. YUM! Start your morning off with a serving of fruit and lots of fiber.
What is a Vegan?
A vegan is a type of vegetarian that doesn't consume any animal products like eggs, dairy, meat, poultry, or fish. While the foundation of this diet is fruits, vegetables, and grains, we still have some great choices for all of our vegan customers!
OLD STANDBY - Bowl of oatmeal with sliced banana and brown sugar on the side. Served with craisins and toast. Nothing is better than a warm hearty bowl of oatmeal in the morning. The toppings add extra flavor and take this healthy oatmeal to the next level. The "Old Standby" will help fuel you through your day and make you feel great!
FRUIT BOWL - Mixed seasonal fruit. Keep it simple and super healthy with our fruit bowl. It's light, fresh, and full of flavor. The best part is that it is vegan! Try adding a side of toast to go with it if you more to eat.
Most dishes on our menu can be easily modified so that they are vegetarian-friendly. Try ordering any of our sandwiches and salads without the meat. If you are searching for vegetarian-friendly dishes or simply trying to reduce the amount of meat you consume, Kate's Kitchen in Kansas City is a great place to get your favorite home-cooked dishes and fit your dietary needs!