There's a common misconception surrounding the level of intricate planning that goes into pulling off a committed vegan diet. Although you do have to forgo certain food groups when eating plant-based meals [1], there's still so much variety to choose from [2] and so many flavour combinations to try.
Vegan meals don't have to be complicated, intricate undertakings, either; with a little tweaking, they can be easy to prepare and pack as much of a nutritional punch [3] as regular meals. If it's ease you're after, then you're in luck, because the following recipes offer up hearty vegan meals all made with the ease and convenience of a slow cooker. Read on for 13 vegan recipes that require minimum effort and offer up maximum flavour.
Slow-Cooker Thai Butternut Squash Curry
Make a large vat of this curry, because you'll definitely be going back for seconds and thirds!
Get the recipe: slow-cooker Thai butternut squash curry [4]
White Bean Slow-Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Already obsessed with plain potato mash? Brace yourself for this extracreamy, protein-packed version that uses white beans as a secret addition.
Get the recipe: white bean slow-cooker mashed potatoes [5]
Sweet Potato Peanut Soup
This filling soup marries the crunch of peanuts with the creaminess of sweet potatoes to drive your taste buds to another planet.
Get the recipe: sweet potato and peanut soup [6]
Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato Mexican Quinoa
The same Mexican flavours you love completely meat-free.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker sweet potato Mexican quinoa [7]
Slow-Cooker Kabocha Squash Soup
Prep this no-effort soup ahead of a lazy evening in, and add your favourite crusty bread.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker kabocha squash soup [8]
Slow-Cooker Pinto Bean Enchiladas
Corn, pinto beans, and chillies fill these easy-peasy enchiladas.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker pinto bean enchiladas [9]
Slow-Cooker Vegan Potato and White Bean Soup
It really doesn't get any better than this when you want a quick, filling, creamy soup dinner.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker vegan potato and white bean soup [10]
Winter Detox Moroccan Sweet Potato Lentil Soup
You won't be able to resist a hearty helping of this filling soup come Winter.
Get the recipe: Winter detox Moroccan sweet potato lentil soup [11]
Curried Cauliflower, Rice, and Kale Soup
Tired of roasted and riced cauliflower? Time to try this versatile veg in a delicious slow-cooker soup.
Get the recipe: curried cauliflower, rice, and kale soup [12]
Slow-Cooker Hot Fudge Chocolate Cake
You can enjoy this gooey chocolate delight on its own or with a scoop of your favourite nondairy ice cream.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker hot fudge chocolate cake [13]
Slow-Cooker Indian-Spiced Lentils
Whether you serve this fragrant lentil stew over your favourite grain or have it as is, it's a treat.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker Indian-spiced lentils [14]
Slow-Cooker Vegetable Barley Soup
This soup is an all-in-one Winter filler, packed with flavour, your favourite veg, and a healthy serving of fibrous grains.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker vegetable barley soup [15]
Slow-Cooker Quinoa Chilli
Throw your favourite chilli ingredients into a slow cooker, leave them to simmer for a while, and the resulting dish is magical, as this chilli proves.
Get the recipe: slow-cooker quinoa chilli [16]