A Vegetarian Guide to Reliable Protein Sources

Since I was a little girl, my pediatrician tokened me “god’s chosen vegetarian.” In a family of meat-eaters, I have always refused to eat meat, and it doesn’t take much critical thinking to assume that I’m not always the most adventurous eater. As is my nature, I’ve formed very specific eating habits and food staples that aren’t all transferable from my Brooklyn kitchen to the Oberlin dining plan. Despite my initial anxiety about this switch, I’ve found that Oberlin dining halls have brought me new and even improved dining staples. Prior to move-in day, I know I would have felt so much relief had another picky vegetarian Obie shared their eating routines. So, I am creating my own guide to the stable, vegetarian protein sources I’ve discovered at Oberlin.

Stevenson Salad Bar

An accessory to any Stevie meal of mine is a big bowl of edamame or chickpeas. I love spicing these up with vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, various dressings, or even condiments from other stations, such as salsas and sauces. While edamame with guacamole may not be for everyone, chickpeas and edamame are highly versatile protein sources, meaning they go well with most condiments. No matter what protein options are available throughout the dining hall, I know that I have the stability that the salad bar brings me.

Roots

The roots station of Stevenson Dining Hall is where stability meets variety. With tempeh, tofu, lentils, beans, or chickpeas routinely served with different cooking styles, I can always try new flavors while also getting my protein in. A favorite roots meal of mine is curried chickpeas with lightly sweetened coconut rice- while I would eat this every day if I could, the variety of roots stops me from myself, making it a huge treat when my favorite meals are served.

Decaf

While I prefer to eat “real” food, as my mom calls it, protein bars and shakes provide a comforting backup if I need extra protein after a workout or as a snack. There is a wide variety of brands and flavors, with the cookies and cream quest bar and the peanut butter bobo being my favorites. In addition, there are always almonds and pistachios in different flavors if I’m not feeling protein powder products. Lastly, in the freezer section, there are ready-made meals with decent protein contents, with my favorite being the annies cauliflower mac and cheese.

Umami 

The umami tofu bowls are a daily occurrence for me. While my favorite is the soft mapo tofu with sauce-drenched rice, the normal tofu option for hot bowls is also delicious. Whether one is a fried or steamed tofu eater, there is an option for both. Additionally, soy milk comes with no extra charge and with meals for a little protein boost.