As we bid farewell to the old and embrace the new, there’s no better inspiration for a fresh start than Dia Mirza, actor and UN environmental ambassador. Her commitment to sustainability serves as a guiding light for us all, and what better way to kick off the year than by adopting her eco-conscious lifestyle as our New Year’s Resolutions?
In the frenzy of setting resolutions, let’s make home-cooked, plant-based meals the star of the show. Dia Mirza’s advocacy for sustainable living extends to the kitchen, promoting not just the health benefits of plant-based eating but also the positive impact it has on our planet.
In one of her very elaborate videos on Instagram, Dia Mirza gave her view on the impact home-cooked meals can have on our planet.
“One of the ways to make a difference at an individual level is to eat seasonal and local fruits and vegetables. Practice a mostly plant-based diet to act on climate. Join the movement to help achieve global goals. Every one of us can act now to help create a better and more sustainable future. In India we have always known and understood the benefits of plant-based meals. Give me dal, chawal, sabzi and I am happiest! What is your favourite home-cooked food?”
Check Out The Recipe of Our Favourite Comfort Food
Acknowledging the challenges of integrating home-cooked, plant-based meals into everyone’s routine is crucial. While Dia Mirza’s passion for homemade meals is admirable, we understand that not everyone may find it feasible to adopt this practice daily. Modern lifestyles often present time constraints and varying priorities. However, the beauty of sustainable living lies in the diversity of our efforts. It’s about finding realistic and achievable steps that align with individual lifestyles, making sustainability accessible to all. But for every aspiring workaholic, we have a solution to ease the burden off your shoulders.
Meal Planning
Dedicate a small part of your Sunday to meal planning. Outline your weekly menu, incorporating a mix of plant-based options. This will not only save time during busy weekdays but will also help in organising your grocery shopping efficiently.
Plant- Based Food Roster
Compile a list of local restaurants or eateries that offer plant-based options according your choice of cuisine and taste. Having a roster of go-to places for quick and sustainable meals can be a game-changer.
Tiffin Services
Discover local tiffin services that specialise in wholesome, home-cooked and plant-based meals. Many cities have innovative providers catering to a range of dietary preferences. Subscribing to such services ensures a regular influx of nutritious and eco-friendly meals, minus the hassle of cooking.
Batch Cooking for Busy Days
Identifying time constraints, and allocating specific days for home-cooked meals can let you relieve the worry of preparing fresh meals. Consider designating one or two days a week for batch cooking. Prepare larger portions that can be refrigerated or frozen, providing you with readily available, home-cooked options during hectic days.
Community or Shared Cooking
Join or form local cooking groups with friends or neighbours. Sharing the responsibility of cooking can lighten the load and foster a sense of community. Rotate cooking duties, allowing everyone to enjoy home-cooked meals without being burdened every day.
Flexible Approach To Eating
Embrace a flexible lifestyle by gradually incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. You don’t have to go fully vegan or vegetarian overnight. Gradual shifts can be more sustainable and easier to maintain.
Online Apps and Resources
Leverage technology to your advantage. Explore meal planning apps, cooking tutorials, and online resources that simplify the process of preparing plant-based dishes. These tools often provide quick recipes, nutritional information, and grocery shopping assistance.
Remember, sustainability is about progress, not perfection. Find a rhythm that suits your lifestyle and allows you to contribute to a greener world in a way that aligns with your personal journey!