Guide for Chefs

The customer wants a “whole foods plant based” meal – What is that?

The whole foods plant based way of eating is based on nutritional science and strongly supported by online resources and social networks. It is a growing trend in Australia as people discover the profound health benefits of eating this way. It is subtly different from a vegan diet as the emphasis is on the health supporting benefits of whole plant foods rather than avoiding everything made from animals.

Whole foods plant based meals are based on whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruit. It’s a high carbohydrate, low fat diet with minimal nut and seed products and no added salt or oil. That’s right, no oil, not even cold-pressed extra virgin organic olive oil, and especially not coconut oil.

The Whole Foods Plant Based Diet made easy

  • No animal products: including no dairy, eggs or fish
  • Oil free, no added salt and with minimal nuts
  • All cooking is done without oil whether it’s baked, sautéed, steamed or microwaved. Water or stock are used for sautéing and frying and no foods are deep fried (see No Oil! for more information)
  • Include generous quantities of complex carbohydrate foods such as brown rice, whole grain pasta, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or quinoa (you need twice the serving size of these to get the same calories as a piece of meat)
  • Vegetables of all types are included, particularly green leafy vegetables and cruciferous vegetables. Lots of vegetables please!
  • Lentils, beans and tofu/tempeh are included (but not deep fried tofu)
  • Nuts and nut butters are used sparingly in sauces/dressings
  • Salt and soy sauce are are best added at the table. Avoid using high-salt commercial sauces
  • There is no need to be bland: garlic, chilli, curry, herbs and spices can all be used. Lemon juice and balsamic vinegar make great oil free dressings

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Page created 4 March 2014
Page last updated 28 October 2015