Francesca Bonadonna - Plantiful: Over 75 Vibrant Vegan Comfort Foods

introduction

I have been surrounded my whole life by people who love delicious food. I grew up in an Italian family who knew how to cook like you wouldnt believe, and no one used a recipe or a measuring cup. Techniques were passed down from one generation to the next. I was fortunate to grow up with four grandparents and four great-grandparents, all of whom instilled a passion for cooking and food in me. Ive included vegan versions of some of the meals that I enjoyed with them in this book. But of all the amazing meals I have eaten, my moms will always take the cake. She knows how to turn simple ingredients and spices into the best meal you could imagine. She has had the most influence on how I cook and choose flavors.

Mom was a bit surprised when her mozzarella-loving daughter announced in April 2016 that she wanted to be a vegan. To be honest, my whole family was shocked. How could I be Italian and be a vegan? How was I ever going to resist all of the foods I had grown up eating and enjoying? Surely it was just a phase, and I would be back to eating meatballs in a week. Well, Ill tell you, it was not a phase, and I have figured out how to make a vegan version of every food I have ever loved.

People think vegans have amazing willpower because they dont eat animal products, but I dont think thats the case. I think those of us who decide to go vegan or plant-based have just realized that animal products arent as essential to making a delicious meal as people believe they are. No matter what you cook, you season it with herbs and spices to make it flavorful. Plants are pretty amazing, and in this book we are going to have a whole lot of fun exploring just how good they can taste.

I am all about comfort food. If a meal doesnt make you feel good and happy when you eat it, then why bother? This book shows you how to make comfort food that is satisfying while still being somewhat healthy. Some of the recipes are a bit more decadent than others, but life is all about enjoying things in moderation.

Whether you are a new vegan or a seasoned vegan, or you are simply interested in trying some plant-based recipes, I promise there is something in here for you. I created everything with love, and I am so excited to share it. My recipes have been enjoyed by non-vegans and vegans alike. While my family and I may eat differently now, they are always eager to try the food I make. My hope is that these become recipes that you share with your family, friends, and loved ones, too.

I want this book to provide you with recipes that defy what you imagine vegan food is and inspire you to try new things. Prior to going vegan, I thought all vegan food was bland and gross. I was finishing up my masters in vocal performance while living in New York City when my eyes were opened.