Absolutely. It’s actually difficult to become protein deficient unless you quit eating all together. Almost all unrefined foods contain some protein, and often quite a lot. Potatoes are 11% protein, oranges 8%, beans 26%, and tofu 34%.

Vegetarian foods highest in overall protein content include legumes or pulses (dried beans and peas), soy products of various kinds (tofu, tempeh, meatless "meats"), eggs and dairy products for those who consume them, and some nuts.

Animal protein contains all nine of the essential amino acids, so it is often referred to as a "complete" protein. The nine essential amino acids can also be found in plant proteins, however no single plant source contains all nine of them. Therefore, plant protein is often referred to as "incomplete."

It was once widely believed that vegetarians had to carefully combine plant protein sources in each meal in order to obtain all nine essential amino acids. However, scientific studies have shown that the human body can store essential amino acids and combine them as necessary. So, while combining beans and rice, or peanut butter and bread produces a complete protein, in most cases it’s not necessary to consciously do this at every meal. As long as you are eating enough calories to meet your daily energy needs, and have a reasonably varied diet, getting enough protein is generally not a problem. If you have concerns, talk with your health practitioner.

No. Many people do choose to increase the amount of dairy products in their diet when they eliminate meat, but this is both unnecessary and potentially unhealthy. Even people following a vegan diet (no meat, dairy products or eggs) can get sufficient nutrients. In 1991, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine developed the New Four Food Groups (whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and legumes) as a healthy alternative to the USDA Food Pyramid. This alternative lists meat and dairy products as optional, but not necessary.