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Posted by u/body_posi_babe··Recipe

Plant-Based Bulking Recipes That Won't Break the Bank?

TL;DR: Looking for calorie-dense plant-based bulking recipes! Sharing my Chickpea & Sweet Potato Curry as a start.

Hey fam, I'm on a mission to bulk up on a plant-based diet and I could really use some help finding calorie-dense recipes! I love lifting and want to make sure I'm getting enough fuel for my gains, but I'm also keeping an eye on my budget.

I've been experimenting with some high-protein, high-volume meals but I'm running out of ideas. If you've got any go-to recipes or tips that fit this vibe, please drop them below!

To kick things off, I'll share one of my faves:

Chickpea & Sweet Potato Curry

  • Ingredients:

    • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained (210 kcal, 12g protein)
    • 1 medium sweet potato, diced (112 kcal, 2g protein)
    • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (445 kcal, 5g protein)
    • 1 cup diced tomatoes (32 kcal, 2g protein)
    • 1 onion, chopped (44 kcal, 1g protein)
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced (9 kcal, 0g protein)
    • 2 cups spinach (14 kcal, 2g protein)
    • Spices: curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste

  • Steps:

    1. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
    2. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for a few minutes.
    3. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Add your spices.
    4. Let it simmer until the sweet potato is soft (about 20 min).
    5. Add spinach at the end until wilted. Serve it over rice or quinoa for even more volume!

Total: Approximately 820 kcal, 24g protein per serving (not including rice/quinoa). It's filling, super creamy, and you can meal prep a big batch for the week! Can't wait to see your ideas!

18 comments

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u/marathon_ninja·

I've been running a lot and need to make sure I'm getting enough calories too. I've started making protein smoothies with spinach, banana, and a scoop of plant protein. Quick, easy, and keeps me full! What do you guys think about smoothies as a meal replacement?

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u/bulk_and_bowl·

But for real, I've got a solid recipe for a peanut butter banana oatmeal. Just cook oats, mash a banana in there, and add a scoop of peanut butter. Boom! Calorie-dense and it keeps you full. Just watch out for those quick carbs if you're not hitting the gym that day. What do you think?

26
u/bulk_and_bowl·

If you're bulking on a budget, have you tried making lentil chili? It's super easy and packed with protein! Just toss together lentils, diced tomatoes, beans, and whatever veggies you have lying around. You can make a big batch for the week, and it holds up really well in the fridge. Top it off with some avocado for those healthy fats! Seriously, you can feed a small army with like 10 bucks.

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u/caffeine_craze·

Yesss, that chickpea and sweet potato curry looks so good! If you want to up the calorie count even more, you could add some nut butter to it. I like to stir in a couple tablespoons of peanut or almond butter for extra creaminess and calories. Plus, it adds a nice flavor!

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u/squat_n_sass·

I mean, this curry sounds lit, but can we talk about how boring rice can be? I try to switch it up with cauliflower rice or even quinoa. Just saying, variety is key to not hating your meals after a week! But like, if you want the carbs, do your thing.

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u/gymratbutchill·

Facts. You can always switch up the grains. I've been loving farro lately, it's chewy and nutty. But honestly, whatever keeps you motivated and excited to eat is the way to go

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u/intuitive_eater_22·

100! Just focus on how you feel after meals instead of stressing over every single macro. I used to obsess over numbers, but now I eat what makes me happy and keeps my energy up. Balance is everything, and you deserve to enjoy your food!

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u/notsofitmom·

I love that curry recipe! I've been making a similar one but adding in some extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Makes it even heartier. On a side note, how do you manage to track your macros? im still trying to figure out the best app for me.

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u/snack_stash·

Honestly, I just try to eat a lot of snacks between meals. I make energy balls with oats, nut butter, and honey. Super easy to make and really calorie-dense! They keep me going through those long study sessions too. What do you think about just eating more snacks instead of full meals?

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u/gymratbutchill·

I mean, I think you can do both! The key is finding what works for you. If logging is too much stress, go with intuitive eating. Just listen to your body and eat when you're hungry. But if you want the data, you do you. Gotta find the balance!

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u/lifting_hippie·

It's so refreshing to see plant-based options being shared! I've been focusing on meals that are wholesome yet satisfying. Have you tried a coconut chickpea stew? It's similar to your curry but you could toss in some veggies like carrots and bell peppers for more nutrients. Eating should feel like a gift, not a chore.

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u/calisthenics_queen·

Totally with you on the chickpea love! Have you tried making a lentil and spinach stew? Just simmer lentils with vegetable broth, spinach, and spices for flavor. It's really comforting and packs a punch in protein. I meal prep it in big batches and just freeze leftovers. Saves time and keeps me fueled.

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u/calisthenics_queen·

Honestly, as long as you're enjoying your meals and getting enough protein, that's what matters! It's all about finding what works for you. Plus, i feel like if you're lifting, your body knows what it needs. Keep experimenting, it's all part of the journey.

25
u/bro_split_noob·

What do you guys think about tracking macros? I've been using MyFitnessPal, but I'm curious if there's a better app. I always forget to log stuff, and then I'm like, 'Oh no, did I just eat all those calories?!'

14
u/powerlifting_gamer·

I love that you're experimenting! If you're into high-protein stuff, try making a quinoa and black bean salad. Just mix cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, diced peppers, and a dressing of your choice. It's filling and super nutritious. Plus, quinoa packs a protein punch. Can't go wrong!

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u/crossfit_cook·

I get you on budget-friendly meals! Have you checked out recipes using beans? They're super cheap and can bulk up a lot of dishes. You could do a bean and rice bowl topped with salsa and avocado. Plus, it's so versatile, you can switch up the spices for different flavors!

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u/rpe_enthusiast·

I hear you on tracking! I'm a fan of Cronometer for its detailed micronutrient tracking, but some people find it too much. You could also try keeping a simple food journal if apps aren't your thing. Just write it down. It might feel less overwhelming. What do you think?

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u/busy_dad_lifter·

If you need cheap protein, just look at eggs. They're a great source and super versatile. I make them scrambled with spinach and serve it with toast. But I get that it's not 100% plant-based, just sharing my two cents.

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