Preparing for the holiday season can be chaotic and stressful- WE get it! It can almost feel like a puzzle trying to figure out what you are going to serve and how to create variations that will accommodate everyone’s dietary requirements. As a vegan of five years, I’ve been to my fair share of holiday gatherings and group dinners and understand the stress it can sometimes put on the host. Fear no more! With these handy tips, accommodating your vegan guests will be a breeze.
Alternatives
Whether you’re cooking the traditional turkey dinner or another holiday meal, there are always simple ways to vegan-ize dishes:
- Swap out butter for vegan margarine/butter options
- Use plant-based milk alternatives
- Pick plant-focused additions like mushroom gravy and vegetable stuffing
- Leave the cheese on the side (or set aside a portion without dairy)
- Load up on the veggies
- Upgrade your salads! Add nuts, berries, a variety of veggies and whatever else you’ve got in the fridge!
A Vegan Spread
Preparing a vegan holiday spread will likely feel very similar to preparing your traditional spread. it’s the 21st century, veganism is widespread, normalized and easy! If your traditional meal includes mashed potatoes, turkey, salad, cranberry sauce, vegetables and stuffing, it will not be difficult to transform this into a vegan spread. Use the following tips and tricks for an easy, delicious vegan meal:
- Instead of traditional mashed potatoes check out our creamy vegan mashed potato recipe
- Instead of a turkey try a tofurky (this is super easy to make and available and most major grocery stores in the tofu section)
- Bring on all the vegetable sides but remember to use plant-based alternatives if you are making sauces (plant-based butter and milk)
- Create your own stuffing using vegetables like celery, carrots and onions and bread that has no dairy or eggs in it
- Cranberry sauce is usually vegan (make sure to check for gelatin just in case)
- Get creative with loaded salad options
Holiday Takeout
Let’s take the shame out of ordering takeout on the holidays. 2020 has been a year that has been very unconventional so who says we have to slave away in the kitchen all day? If hosting a vegan guest is stressing you out or you’re afraid you won’t be able to make something they will enjoy, order some takeout! Check out our article on holiday take out for plenty of vegan options including Middle Eastern spreads, sushi and even fast food.
