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Although at Million Dollar Vegan, we believe all (vegan) meals are created equal, breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day. A healthy, balanced breakfast can kickstart your day and will give you the energy you need to perform in whatever endeavors await you. A vegan breakfast, surprise surprise, can be just as, if not more, healthy, delicious, nutritious and full of energy as any other breakfast.

What Do Vegans Eat For Breakfast?

A vegan breakfast contains all the same nutrients you would find in a dairy, or meat-based breakfast.. Milk, yogurt, cereal, fruit, toast and butter, Danish and many many more items are all on the menu – you just need to source the vegan versions. If you’re feeling like treating yourself, then pancakes, bacon, sausages, and scrambled eggs are ALL still on the menu, too!

Whatever you feel like, it’s available as part of a vegan breakfast.

What Should a Balanced Vegan Breakfast Include?

This all depends on what you want to achieve from your diet.

If you’re looking to gain weight, then high-fat (good fats of course), high-carb breakfast is a good idea – think avocados, nuts, oats and other grains. For a more detailed guide on gaining weight on a vegan diet, read this. If you’re trying to lose weight, think slow release, unrefined carbohydrates and fiber. Beans, fruits, wholegrain breads and breakfast cereals all fit the bill!

If you’re happy with where you’re at in terms of diet, but are just thinking of going vegan, then really anything goes! Some of our favorites are overnight oats with nuts, fruit and agave syrup or vegan pancakes with soy yoghurt, banana and berry compote.

Vegan Ingredients to Stock-Up On

For the store cupboard, always make sure it’s full of unrefined carbohydrates like oats and whole grain cereals. A big jar of mixed nuts including almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts and Brazil nuts will provide you with all the good fats and proteins you need!

In terms of fresh produce, avocados are a staple at breakfast time. If you’re avoiding fats, then plenty of fruits and vegetables are a great way to start the day, although some complex carbohydrates are recommended at breakfast time to give you the energy you need for the day.

The following ingredients are always worth having for a balanced, nutritious breakfast:

• Plant milks (oat, soya, coconut, almond and more!)
• High-fibre cereals
• Peanut butter
• Oats
• Plant-based yogurts (soy, coconut)
• Avocados
• Wholegrain or rye bread
• Fruits (bananas, berries, kiwi fruit, oranges and more)

10 Popular Vegan Breakfast Ideas (with Recipes)

Breakfast Pancakes with Juicy Berry Syrup

Who doesn’t love a hearty stack of pancakes? Packed with juicy berries, oats and syrup, these delicately sweet and filling pancakes are a wonderful start to any day.

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Fruity Breakfast Waffles

Waffles are another winner, second only to pancakes… maybe. This classic can be topped with creamy soy yogurt and berries for a nutritious hit.

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Fruity Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are not only a nutritious, energy-packed start to the day, but they are also a huge time saver for those with a tight morning schedule! They are also versatile, so you can add whatever ingredients suit your diet goals and taste preferences. This recipe is a low-fat version, but if fat is not a concern, then peanut butter, nuts, or even choc chips can be added!

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Spiced Pumpkin Oatmeal

This beautiful winter warmer is perfect for a cold morning in bed.

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Vegan French Toast

An undeniable classic, this vegan version is a high-protein hit due to the addition of tofu, which makes it deliciously crispy!

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Huevos Rancheros – Vegan Style

This is one of our favorites – delicious, diverse and filling. It’s a take on the classic but with a vegan twist – swapping eggs for tofu, which makes for a great morning protein hit. Try adding avocado for healthy fats.

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Maple Walnut Granola

According to Michal Greger MD, author of the bestseller ‘How Not To Die’ and all round plant-based hero, walnuts top the list of healthiest nuts to eat, due to its potential to reduce cancer risk. When paired with a delicious homemade granola, they make a delicious and healthy breakfast!

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Breakfast Burritos

Another breakfast classic, this time from the vegan egg geniuses at JUST egg. This delicious burrito is full of flavor and ticks all the boxes.

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Sweet Potato Hash

A vegan twist on an old breakfast favourite! Can be enjoyed on its own, with plant-based bacon, or as part of a cooked breakfast.

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Nutrient-Packed Banana Berry Smoothie Bowl

Perfect as a morning energy boost or an after-workout pick-me-up, this fruity and creamy smoothie bowl will leave you feeling full, healthy and refreshed!

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Conclusion

So, a vegan breakfast may taste and satisfy just like any other but they are in fact almost always healthier than their meat or dairy counterparts. Whatever your favorite breakfast option, there will be a vegan version for you to enjoy.

If you are thinking of making the switch and want tips, advice and recipes straight into your inbox, try Million Dollar Vegan’s 31 day vegan challenge. With so many delicious breakfast ideas to try, what’s stopping you?

Try Vegan

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