Catering for Vegetarian Guests

Types of Vegetarian

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It is becoming more and more common in the catering industry in Perth to be asked to provide a menu that makes provision for vegetarian guests. There are, of course, different types of vegetarian. One variation is the pescetarian, who will not eat meat or poultry but who consume fish, seafood, and crustacean. A pescetarian diet excludes land animals and birds but includes fish, mollusks, and crustaceans eggs and dairy products. Another variety of vegetarian is the so-called "flexitarian" who will consume a semi-vegetarian diet, which may include some meats, which are likely to be organic or free-range only.


A conventional vegetarian is someone who does not eat any meat, poultry, game, fish, and seafood. By-products of meat, such as broth, gravy, or fats are to be avoided as are any foods that have been cooked together with meat. Vegetarians who eat eggs are termed "Ovo-vegetarians", whilst "Lacto vegetarians" will not eat eggs but will consume a wide variety of dairy products.


An Ovo-lacto Vegetarian is one who does not eat meat poultry or fish but is willing to consume dairy and egg products. Finally, at the most extreme end of the scale, there is the vegan. Vegans will consume no animal products whatsoever. Their commitment extends to a refusal to wear animal products such as leather, fur, or, in fact, any animal product that necessitated the slaughter of the animal.
 

Vegetarian Menus

The vast majority of vegetarians will welcome a varied and imaginative menu that contains grain-based foods such as bread and pasta, for their carbohydrate intake and beans and pulses, chickpeas, black beans and lentils for their essential proteins.


If a meat substitute is required this may be in the shape of Quorn, tofu, soy, and gluten. A variety of tasty and appetizing dishes in substitution for meat, such as meat-less burgers, veggie sausages, fish-less fish fingers and Quorn mince and chicken breasts will provide a great choice for most vegetarian diners, even where the event that is being catered for is a barbecue!

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Vegetables and salads are also a staple on any vegetarian menu and the protein in a salad can easily be provided by the addition of eggs and nuts. It goes without saying that there should also be a healthy selection of fruits on any vegetarian-friendly menu. The vegetarian catering should provide a variety of vegetarian platters to make the dessert interesting and tasty.
 

Summary


The key to providing catering for a vegetarian customer of customers is to consult with them well in advance of the event to ascertain whether there are any particularly special requirements. Most vegetarians will be happy to discuss their menus in advance and, if the caterer is not likely to be able to meet every individual need, they are normally happy to bring their own provisions. As we have demonstrated in so many areas of the discipline of outdoor catering, the key to providing a satisfactory customer service is attention to detail, professionalism and flexibility.

If you would like any further information about All Seasons Catering catering service please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Our experienced Perth Caterers are always on hand to give their experience and advice.