Introduction

I first adopted a more plant-based diet in January 2016, and like most of my adventures, I didn’t do it by halves. I went vegan for Veganuary, and loved the new life and colour that my cookery took on. I encouraged my household to follow suit, and they attempted it with enthusiasm and an open mind.

But as a food writer working primarily with families on very low incomes and food bank users, my work and lifestyle can never be described as ‘completely’ vegan. I no longer use the label to describe myself, because it doesn’t quite fit, like a shirt two sizes too small. Instead, I create mostly vegan recipes that are simple, affordable, and accessible – hoping to encourage more people to consume fewer animal products through temptation and seduction, rather than guilt and self-loathing.