After throwing generic meat in the refrigerator for tomorrow's summer BBQ, eating a leftover chicken wing, and simultaneously feeling quite sick to my stomach, I realized I am disgusted by meat.
Now, don't get me wrong, I eat meat...usually while in a restaurant. I love sushi too! But, while at home; grains, legumes, veggies and fruit are star performers in my diet. I used to be so proud of how I loved medium-rare steak or could make tender carnitas for tacos in the crockpot. Then, about 4 months ago I was a vegetarian for a month and a half and it felt great! But, then I stopped. Why? 1) I was sick of talking about my reasons, 2) I got sick and really wanted chicken noodle soup, and 3) I lived in Germany, specifically Bavaria, where vegetarian was possible and yet so far from practical.
I have done my research, and know a bit about the arguments on both sides of this worldly debate of vegetarianism. Throughout these posts I aim to have debate about both sides, share my discoveries from both personal experience and research, and to hear from you and your experiences. However, I say this now, please refrain from name calling and insults...I want to focus on the food, environment and health!
So, here is a little something to "chew" on (oh so many puns intended): Why do we "like" or "dislike" meat?
I like the many ways you can cook meat. You can grill, saute, bake, broil, poach, fry, rotisserie, and eat raw meat. One of my favorite dishes is beef carpaccio with a healthy dose of bitter lettuce like arugula and some fruity balsamic vinegar drizzled on top. Yum! Or what about the roasted chickens at Oktoberfest- does anything besides that and brez'n match with a large mass of beer?
I enjoy that meat is universal. South American dishes, Asian stir-fry,
Middle Eastern and Mediterranean specialties, European cuisine, African
braais, and American Gourmet... all have fabulous meats. There are so
many flavors and ways to cook meat. If you travel vegetarian is not a
standard, is it? A sidenote: I have always been curious to eat a fried
grasshopper.
What is your favorite meat dish? 
The thing I do not like about meat is the assumption it belongs in every meal- chicken on salads; pork or beef with dinner. Weekends may include breakfast sausages, then later having fish or other seafood. When travelling, McDonald's, wurst, daily specials of finely cut meats... it seems like everyone believes that without meat no meal is complete.
When I was a vegetarian, after a week having no meat I was surprised that there are many options that will fill you up, energize you AND come with a complete protein. Edamame, quinoa, corn, eggs, dairy, and other soy products are all available for that full helping of protein. There are lentils, black beans, kidney beans, hummus, tofu stir-fries, vegan sausages, and more! I liked snacking on walnuts (go omega -3s!). I loved the days where I ate vegetables and hummus with a glass of white wine or lemonade. Am I not healthy because it doesn't include meat? Am I somehow hurting myself or the world around me? When trying to eat things other than meat I had to get creative, and it was fun!
What is your favorite non-meat dish?
So, where do I end up in this post with my decision? Meat is universally accepted, and allows you many options when eating out or travelling. You can chose to just not eat as much of it. I feel like having more options with meat. Meat sounds like a win.... for now.
