One of the best ways to experience a country’s culture is through its cuisine, but what about when that cuisine is heavy on an ingredient that you aren’t able to eat? Whether it be for health reasons, environmental concerns, or simply out of preference, vegetarian diets are more popular than ever, but it can still be a challenge to find satisfying food options while traveling. Fortunately, in some countries, vegetarianism is not only common, but an essential part of the local culture, meaning meat-free dishes are more the rule than the exception. Read on to learn more about some of the best destinations for vegetarian travelers.
India
An estimated 40% of the Indian population practices vegetarianism due to cultural and religious beliefs, so vegetarian options are very easy to find. Indian cuisine is highly flavorful and usually prepared with fresh ingredients, but it can be on the spicy side for those who aren’t used to it. Some of our favorite vegetarian dishes include chana masala, paneer tikka, and samosas.
Thailand
Thailand has a vibrant food scene with a lot of vegetarian options. Many dishes feature tofu or tempeh as a protein source, and rice and vegetables are considered a standard part of every meal. One thing to note, however, is that fish sauce is frequently used to add flavor to soups and sauces, so be sure to ask if you’re not sure that a dish is fish-free. Tofu pad Thai and papaya salad are usually safe bets.
Italy
While certain Italian foods are quite heavy on meat, there are plenty of vegetarian dishes available as well. Italian cuisine utilizes fresh, local ingredients, which often include vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. Pizza and pasta are staples, and meat-free versions are usually quite easy to find. Other common vegetarian dishes include caprese salad, eggplant parmesan, and bruschetta.