When I decided to become a vegetarian about 3-1/2 years ago, I began to explore many different "alternative" foods to the ones I was used to eating. What I found was that everything I was "replacing" in my old diet, was basically soy based; soy milk, tofu, cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, "butter" spreads, virtually all meat substitutes etc. I guess I was on "SOY OVERLOAD". I had a routine mammogram done and for the first time ever, we had several areas of concern. I was sent to a "breast specialist".  I discussed with him my recent change in diet and his exact words to me were:"You haven't done your research on soy have you?" Now I know there are pros and cons to the soy debate but  for me, I made the choice to cut as much soy out of my diet as possible (on the advice of my doctor and for my own peace of mind). I still see my specialist every 6 months and my past mammograms have all been "clear". I decided to take the plunge into the vegan world in Sept of 2011 (4 months ago) and I try to buy as many soy-free products and cook soy-free as much as possible. My problem is that every time I see a yummy recipe, it's full of soy products; tofu, milk (which I substitute almond milk), meat substitutes etc. I'm having a really hard time being able to vary my diet due to my "soy issue", Can anyone suggest a website for soy-free recipes? Or can someone post some of your own soy free recipes? I would love to try some soy free mock-meat meals but I just don't know that they exist. I'm gettin kinda tired of veggie stir-frys and veggie soup. I miss meatloaf and scrambled eggs but do NOT have the desire to eat ANY animal products. I just wish I knew how to adapt more foods to vegan. PLEASE HELP! Thanks! 

Hi!

I'm sorry to hear that soy has not been treating you well :(  You are right that a lot of vegan recipes do require you to use some kind of soy product.  There are some other alternatives though.  I practice vegan macrobiotics so I try to decrease my intake of soy as well and turn more to beans and seitan.  Seitan is very versatile, it can be baked boiled, fried, stir fried, etc.  Beans, I love to make stews and I just recently made a lentil loaf for christmas that may be a good substitute for your craving for meatloaf.  I think if you have soy every now and then it should be fine, like 2-3 times a week.  

I think it's great that you are still carrying on with your journey with veganism and I hope you find some reaasurrance and good resources in the community :D

Bev

(www.themacroveg.blogspot.com)

Bev,

Thanks so much for your response and encouragement. I went to the website you posted and LOVE IT! I copied your recipe for your lentil loaf and plan to make it soon. So happy there's no soy in it! HA! Ha! Many thanks again! :o)