Exploring a Healthy Vegan Pantry: Essentials for Staying Fit

What kinds of foods are stocked in a healthy vegan pantry? In today's video I'm taking you on a full tour to show you different kinds of proteins, grains, snack foods, supplements and more, that I buy to help me stay lean and fit as a vegan 🌱💪

When I first went vegan, I didn't know what to eat to stay healthy and fit. I don't want that to be you, so let's check out what I stock in my pantry.

Let us know what you think! Leave your comments on YouTube.

Protein Powerhouses

Staying fit and healthy on a vegan diet? You've got this! Let’s talk protein. My go-to right now is soy curls. They're a breeze to prepare and super budget-friendly, especially if you buy in bulk. Just hydrate them, squeeze out the excess water, and mix with your favorite veggies and sauce. I love a sweet teriyaki with Butler chick-style seasoning for a tasty meal.

Other protein-packed options? Try high-protein pasta like Banza (made from chickpeas) and Explore Cuisine's black bean spaghetti. And don't skip the beans; I always stock refried beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans. They’re perfect for dishes like chili or a hearty Mexican bowl.

Oh, and quinoa — don’t forget this protein superstar. For a meaty texture in your meals, try textured vegetable protein (TVP). Burgers made with TVP are delicious and full of protein.

My Go-To Grains

Grains are a cornerstone of a well-stocked vegan pantry. Quinoa, brown rice, and oats are my all-time favorites. Buying rice in bulk can save you money and ensure you always have a nutritious grain handy. A rice cooker can really simplify meal prep, delivering perfect rice every time.

I’m a big fan of oats, especially the maple and brown sugar kind, though plain oats are a healthier pick. For quick and easy meals, stir-fry rice noodles and couscous are fantastic.

Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds are fantastic for snacking and adding healthy fats to your diet. Brazil nuts, for instance, are a great source of selenium. Flaxseeds and chia seeds are amazing sources of Omega-3s. For snacking, I love pistachios, cashews, and almonds. And if you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative to regular peanut butter, give powdered peanut butter like PB fit a try—it’s great with apples.

must-have Snacks

Having healthy snacks around is key to curbing hunger between meals. Dry roasted edamame, lentils, and gluten-free pretzels are pantry staples for me. Popcorn is another favorite, but watch out for "skinny" packaging claims; it’s still a higher-calorie snack.

For a healthier option, I like apples with PB fit. Pro tip: Keeping healthier snacks at eye level in your pantry can help you make better choices when hunger strikes.

essential Supplements

Sometimes, you might need a little extra help ensuring you get all the nutrients you need. Turmeric and ginger roots are incredible antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties; I love adding them to my smoothies. Seaweed is a great iodine source, and I regularly take a multivitamin, B12, and Omega-3 supplements.

Flavor Boosters

Condiments and seasonings can take a meal from bland to flavorful. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and is usually fortified with B12. For sweeteners, I prefer agave nectar and maple syrup. Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder are must-haves. Liquid aminos and mustard are low-calorie sauces I frequently use.

and some Extras…

A few miscellaneous items that I always keep on hand include plant milk, plant-strong chili, and riced cauliflower. Vegetable broth or better-than-bouillon can really up the flavor in your dishes. And if you love sushi, keep some nori and sushi ginger around—they’re perfect for seafood dinner nights.

Sweet potatoes and garlic are other essentials that I use in tons of recipes. Keeping these items stocked makes meal prep so much easier.

Check out some of my favorite high-protein recipes below!