Guides
Verify Veg blog
Hidden animal ingredients, dish questions, and shopping against your diet, at home and on the road.
Is Moussaka Vegetarian? (Greek, But With Meat)
Moussaka is usually not vegetarian: it's layered with ground lamb or beef and a béchamel topping. Vegetarian moussaka (lentil or vegetable) exists. Here's what to check.
Is Massaman Curry Vegetarian or Vegan? (Beef, Fish Sauce & Shrimp Paste)
Massaman curry is usually not vegetarian: it's typically made with beef or chicken, and the paste contains shrimp paste and fish sauce. Vegetarian massaman exists. Here's how.
Is Miso Soup Vegetarian? (Dashi & Bonito, Explained)
Miso soup is usually not vegetarian: the broth is made with dashi from dried fish (bonito). The miso paste itself is plant-based. Here's how to find vegan miso soup.
Is Masala Dosa Vegan? (South Indian Classic)
Masala dosa is usually vegan: a rice-and-lentil crepe filled with spiced potato. But some cooks use ghee or butter. Here's how to be sure.
Is Laksa Vegetarian? (Shrimp Paste & Stock)
Laksa is usually not vegetarian: the curry base contains shrimp paste and the broth is often seafood or chicken. Vegetarian laksa exists. Here's what to check.
Is Lasagna Vegetarian? (Meat, Rennet & Béchamel)
Classic lasagna is not vegetarian: it's layered with meat ragù and cheese made with animal rennet. Vegetarian and vegan lasagna exist. Here's what to check.
Is Kimchi Vegetarian? (Fish Sauce & Shrimp Paste)
Kimchi is usually not vegetarian: it's traditionally seasoned with fish sauce and salted shrimp. Here's how to tell, and how to find vegan kimchi.
Is Honey Vegan? The Debate, Explained
Honey is usually vegetarian but not vegan. It is an animal product made by bees, and vegans avoid it on ethical grounds. Here's the reasoning and the plant alternatives.
Is Idli Vegan? (Steamed Rice Cakes)
Idli are vegan: steamed cakes of fermented rice and urad dal, served with sambar and chutney. Here's what's in them and the one thing to double-check.
Is Guacamole Vegan? (Yes: Here's What to Watch)
Guacamole is vegan: mashed avocado, lime, onion, cilantro and chili. The only thing to watch is occasional sour cream or mayo. Here's how to be sure.
Is Goulash Vegetarian? (Beef & Pork Stew)
Goulash is not vegetarian: it's a paprika-spiced stew of beef or pork. A vegetarian version with mushrooms or beans exists. Here's what to check.
Is Green Curry Vegetarian or Vegan? (Fish Sauce & Shrimp Paste)
Thai green curry is usually not vegetarian: the curry paste contains shrimp paste and fish sauce. Vegetarian and vegan green curry exist. Here's what to check.