8 staples every vegan kitchen should have that aren’t tofu

Veganism is more popular than ever, and it’s not hard to see why. A vegan diet offers a range of health benefits, like maintaining heart health and lowering cancer risk. 

From plant-based burgers at Burger King to vegan breakfast sandwiches at Dunkin’, the world is becoming more herbivore friendly. But how can you adopt the vegan lifestyle in your own home? Here are eight essential items every vegan-friendly kitchen should have.

  1. Plant-based milk

From oat to coconut, and almond and soy, there are a ton of vegan milk options out there that offer lots of nutrition and protein without the calories or harmful fat. 

  1. Nuts

Nuts are a staple for any vegan kitchen and they’re super versatile. They can add a little extra crunch in salads, or be blended to make a rich imitation cheese. 

  1. Nutritional yeast

Speaking of cheese, nutritional yeast is a must-have for vegan kitchens. The flaky powder gives a savory boost to vegetables, soups, and even popcorn. You could even use it to make a cheesy sauce to spread on whatever you like! May we suggest potatoes?

  1. Beans

Beans, beans, the magical fruit. Their versatility in the kitchen really is magic! Beans are full of fiber and protein and can be blended to make a filling dip, or used in a soup to give it some depth. 

  1. Chickpeas 

Chickpeas are rich in protein and energy, and are very multipurpose! Use them to make falafel, hummus, or curry. You could even fry them up to give them some crunch and top your favorite salad with them!

  1. Jackfruit

This unexpected fruit is the perfect meat replacement for tuna salads, pulled pork tacos, or even gyros. The firm, ropy texture of jackfruit pulls apart just like meat. You might even trick yourself into thinking it’s the real thing!

  1. Vegetable Bouillon Powder 

What good is a textural meat replacement without the flavor? Vegetable bouillon is perfect for adding flavor to your meat replacements, as well as dips, soups and stews!

  1. Agave Nectar

For vegans with a sweet tooth who want to lay off the bees, agave nectar is a great replacement for honey. Use it in coffee like a sweetener or add it to a fruit and vegetable-packed smoothie. 

Many of these items are staples in non-vegan homes already, so going vegan may not be as hard as you think!

If you liked this story, check out, the best foods to make in an air fryer.

In The Know is now available on Apple News — follow us here

More from In The Know:

Beyond February and March: Support Black women artists year-round

TikTok found the coolest kitchen gadget for prepping meals: ‘Why didn’t I think of this?’

This is the must-have office chair from ‘Shark Tank’ that even Justin Bieber raves about

No one knows about this seriously underrated $6 liquid eyeliner: ‘It glides on flawlessly’.

Listen to the latest episode of our pop culture podcast, We Should Talk: