Seven years ago, I made a choice that changed my life: I went vegan. Like many people, I was motivated to try veganism after watching a documentary. “Cowspiracy” opened my eyes, and revealed truths I held within myself. When it came to envisioning veganism for my life, I was motivated by a mix of curiosity, compassion for animals, and a desire to live more sustainably. But as anyone who has gone through the early stages of transitioning to a vegan lifestyle knows, it’s not always easy. There are habits to break, recipes to learn, and, let’s be honest, plenty of questions to answer from friends and family.
If you’re vegan-curious, newly vegan, or just looking to learn more about the lifestyle, I want to start by saying this: I see you, and I respect you. Choosing to explore veganism doesn’t mean you need to be perfect or take the leap all at once. The resources I’m about to share with you were my safety net during those first few months. They gave me the tools, knowledge, and confidence to make the transition without feeling overwhelmed. I hope they do the same for you, no matter where you are on your journey.
1. Documentaries That Made Me Think
Let’s start with what many people find most eye-opening: documentaries. I didn’t go vegan overnight, but these films planted the seeds of change in my mind and helped me see the bigger picture.
- “Forks Over Knives” – This is the documentary that introduced me to the connection between plant-based eating and health. It’s full of scientific studies, personal success stories, and practical advice. If you’re curious about how eating plants can improve your well-being, this is a great place to start.
- “Cowspiracy” – Sustainability was a huge motivator for me, and “Cowspiracy” opened my eyes to how industrial animal agriculture impacts the environment. It’s powerful without being preachy, and it encourages viewers to think critically about their daily choices.
- “Earthlings” – I won’t sugarcoat it: this one is intense. “Earthlings” explores the ethical implications of using animals for food, clothing, and entertainment. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s an honest, necessary look at the world many of us never see.
I know documentaries can feel heavy. If you decide to watch any of these, take your time to process what you’ve seen. The goal isn’t guilt or shame—it’s awareness. For me, knowledge became the foundation for more compassionate choices.
2. Cookbooks That Made Cooking Fun
One of the biggest misconceptions about going vegan is that you’ll be eating salads for the rest of your life. Let me tell you: vegan food is delicious, diverse, and downright exciting if you have the right recipes in your arsenal.
- “Oh She Glows Cookbook” by Angela Liddon – Angela’s recipes were a lifesaver when I first started. Her dishes are wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for beginners. From creamy soups to satisfying pasta dishes, you’ll never feel deprived.
- “Veganomicon” by Isa Chandra Moskowitz and Terry Hope Romero – This cookbook is often called the “vegan bible,” and for good reason. It’s packed with creative, foolproof recipes for every meal and occasion. I love that it doesn’t require fancy ingredients—just simple, hearty food.
- “The First Mess Cookbook” by Laura Wright – When I wanted to experiment with seasonal, farm-to-table cooking, this book became my go-to. Laura’s photography is stunning, and her recipes are a celebration of fresh produce and natural flavors.
Cooking vegan can feel intimidating at first, but these books showed me that plant-based meals could be satisfying, indulgent, and nourishing all at once.
3. YouTube Channels That Taught Me How
When I wasn’t sure where to start, YouTube became my virtual cooking class and support group all rolled into one. These creators taught me practical skills and made veganism feel approachable.
- “Pick Up Limes” (Sadia Badiei) – Sadia’s channel is a mix of easy recipes, meal-prep tips, and balanced nutrition advice. Her calm, kind demeanor makes you feel like you’re learning from a trusted friend.
- “Cheap Lazy Vegan” (Rose Lee) – Rose’s no-nonsense approach to vegan cooking is perfect if you’re on a budget or short on time. Her recipes are affordable, quick, and full of flavor.
- “The Minimalist Vegan” – This channel is all about simplifying veganism and focusing on the lifestyle’s core values. It’s great for anyone who wants to learn about ethical living alongside tasty recipes.
These creators made veganism feel doable for me. Watching someone cook or grocery shop on camera gave me confidence that I could do the same in my own kitchen.
4. Websites and Blogs That Inspired Me
The internet is a treasure trove of resources for vegans, but a few blogs stood out to me in those early days. They weren’t just about recipes—they were about community, kindness, and connection.
- Minimalist Baker – This blog is a goldmine for quick, simple vegan recipes that use 10 ingredients or fewer. Whether you’re craving brownies or tacos, Minimalist Baker has you covered.
- Oh She Glows Blog – Angela Liddon’s blog is just as wonderful as her cookbook. I love how she shares personal stories alongside mouthwatering recipes.
- BOSH! – If you want vegan food that feels indulgent, BOSH! is the place to go. Their recipes are fun, creative, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
What I love most about these blogs is that they never felt judgmental or exclusive. They celebrated vegan food as something joyful and welcoming, which was exactly what I needed at the time.
5. Books That Deepened My Understanding
Finally, I want to share a few books that helped me understand the bigger why behind veganism. These aren’t cookbooks—they’re thought-provoking reads that gave me a deeper connection to the lifestyle.
- “Eating Animals” by Jonathan Safran Foer – This book changed the way I view food. It’s part memoir, part investigative journalism, and it asks readers to think critically about the choices we make.
- “How Not to Die” by Dr. Michael Greger – If you’re curious about the health benefits of a plant-based diet, this book is packed with science-backed information. It’s not just about living longer—it’s about living better.
- “The Kind Diet” by Alicia Silverstone – Alicia’s approach to veganism is warm, accessible, and focused on kindness—to animals, to the planet, and to ourselves. This book feels like a conversation with a supportive friend.
These books helped me stay grounded and inspired on my journey. They reminded me that veganism isn’t just about what we eat—it’s about the values we choose to live by every day.
Final Thoughts: Progress, Not Perfection
If you’re just beginning to explore veganism, I hope this list gives you a place to start. Remember: you don’t need to have all the answers right away. I didn’t. What matters most is your willingness to learn, try new things, and take small steps toward a lifestyle that aligns with your values.
I believe that veganism is about compassion—not just for animals and the planet, but for ourselves and each other. Whether you decide to go vegan tomorrow, next year, or never, I’m grateful you’re here, reading this. Every choice matters, and every step counts.
If you have any favorite resources of your own, I’d love to hear about them in the comments! Let’s keep learning and growing together.
With love and kindness,
Life As Vegan