My #VTAchallenge Diary

From October 1 - 22, Veggie Takeout Army had a vegetarian/ vegan challenge. Mechanics is to stick to a vegetarian or vegan diet for 22 days, post at least one of your meals for the day. (We are HOME-BASED food service. - taken from VTA's Facebook page. They're located at and delivers within Lucena City, Quezon)

I decided to join coz I wanna prove to myself that at the age of 30, I can still outgrow habits (and anything between) and turn into something that is more fruitful. With the motivation, self discipline, and support from a few I accomplished the 22 days.

The fact that I was a 5-year vegetarian before I got preggy and I live in Baguio where vegetables are cheaper than a bottle of beer, eating pure vegetables is no sweat. The challenging part is having a vegetarian meal readily available anytime, anywhere. I'm so into the convenience of eating whatever there is, especially when I'm outside where meat is readily available like rice. But YES! I MADE IT!

It made me realize how I missed cooking and the unconditional satisfaction that came with it. I'm really fond of coming up with recipes on the spot based on the ingredients available. Let the imagination come to work and you'll turn something ordinary into something really special. Aaaahhh the joy of cooking...

Wheeewh, who would've thought it'd bring out something worth knowing. It also reminded me the existence of the people who support and respect my decisions. So here I am sharing my thoughts behind it coz personally it ain't just posting my meals for 22 days.

Since I saved a lot, I was able to share some snacks to beggars and street vendors for a day. Yeah, I'm glad I took part of the #VTAchallenge.

And here's my posted meals in no particular order, most of it I cooked. In case you're interested with the recipe, just send me a message.   

   

Ahmad Brothers Cafe (Indian, Pakistani Food)

After 2 unsuccessful attempts of dining at Ahmad Brothers Cafe (coz usually they're closed when I go there), I finally tasted their cooking! And yes, it's worth the wait. I'm a big fan of Indian cuisine coz of the rich unusual flavors that is fused with simple basic ingredients.

Really affordable, or if you find it pricey, it's all worth it -- quality and quantity wise. Don't underestimate the serving coz it's a tummy loader indeed. Plus, they have lots of meat-free dishes.

Here's what we had that left us very happily loaded. I wasn't able to list the price but menu at the end of the post.

The Food

Samosa

Cubed herbed potatoes wrapped with lumpia wrapper (I presume) served with some yogurt dip. Great way to get the palate excited.

Palek Paneer with Nan

Spinach was never this good. This meal goes with rice or nan. Personally, Indian food won't be complete if it ain't nan. We ordered extra nan for Php 20.

Chicken Masala with Nan 

Wasn't able to taste this (coz of the vegetarian challenge) but he said it's flavorful and yummy.

Lassi (salted)

You can get this sweetened or salted, I prefer salted coz it's how I enjoy my yogurt. Another tummy filler.

The Place

These photos were taken in their old location, they already moved as of this update.

Store Info

Location

Jose Miguel Building 2, #01 Yandok Street, Corner Naguilian Road, Baguio City, Philippines

Store Hours 

Monday to Sunday 10 am - 10pm

Contact No.

0908 740 7284

My Satisfaction Level

Palate Happiness: 5/5
Tummy Loader: 5/5
Service: 4/5
Ambiance: 4/5
Budget: Php 490 (for the said meals)