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Sometime, somewhere, someone you love will ask you to feed a vegetarian. Think outside the salad bowl.
There are many reasons someone you know may decide to become vegetarian: animal welfare, health, and environmentalism are just a few. But it's very likely one of your family's circle is or will become a vegetarian, and if you're doing the cooking, panic may ensue.
The key to feeding a vegetarian is understanding his or her brand of vegetarianism. Vegetarian is someone who doesn't eat meat (but may eat some animal proteins) Lacto-ovo vegetarians eat no animal flesh, but do eat dairy and eggs Pescetarians eat no land animals or birds, but do eat fish and shellfish. Ask about eggs and milk. Vegans eat nothing from animals or that exploits animals. This classification is more about lifestyle than diet. They don't wear leather, or eat gelatin or honey. They may also only eat organic foods.
People who are vegetarians because of their concern for animals may also eschew products similar to animal products, like vegetarian bacon or soy cheese.
As you tease out their vegetarianism, you'll likely discover the reasons for their choice. People love to discuss choices like this, and most vegetarians I've known discuss this without being judgemental. Exercise diplomacy and don't make jokes--we all want to be taken seriously.
Outside the Salad Bowl Please, please think outside the salad bowl. Every vegetarian has a story about a cookout or party where the only thing they could eat was salad. Most vegetarians are prepared to bring a dish, so feel free to ask them. If you're ready to step up to the challenge, though, your vegetarian will appreciate it.
Because other cultures have been traditionally vegetarian, look to them for veggie ideas. Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and Indian are go-to cuisines when entertaining. And there's always Google for more food ideas. You can find ideas and supplies at Whole Foods, a very vegetarian-friendly place, but don't overlook Foodmaster and Stop and Shop, especially the frozen food section.
Mind Your Manners: Etiquette And finally, some vegetarian etiquette. We already discussed behaving like a grown-up and keeping your clever vegetarian jokes to yourself, but here are a couple more ideas. Your vegetarian will give you the Gold-Star-Martha-Stewart-Thumbs-Up Host Award if you grill the veggie kabobs or veggie burgers first, on a clean grill, before the meat products go on. The vegetarian will also appreciate separate serving utensils for meat and vegetarian dishes.
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