From eu.delawareonline.com
For many Delawareans who celebrate Thanksgiving, sitting down to a home-cooked meal surrounded by family and friends is a staple holiday tradition.
Many enjoy traditional dishes such as mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie and turkey – the most recognizable of the season.
But, for the roughly 1% of residents in the United States who identify as vegan – and the nearly 4% identifying as vegetarian – navigating a dinner table full of meat and dairy-related products can be quite a predicament.
Luckily, for those who follow a strict plant-based diet, here’s how you can still enjoy a meal on Turkey Day – or, more accurately, Tofurky Day.
For appetizers
Suppose you’re looking to upgrade your finger food to be more plant-friendly. In that case, Minimalist Baker recommends including a wide range of seasonal dips, such as white bean and pumpkin or roasted beet hummus, or going all out with a roasted and fresh vegetable tray served with a side of vegan cheese.
Additional easy-to-make vegan hors d’oeuvre can also include plant-based stuffed mushrooms, "bacon"-wrapped dates and cranberry salsa.
The main course
The culinary reason for the season, turkey, is a mainstay in many American households this time of year.
Between 45 million and 46 million turkeys are killed every year for the holiday, according to estimates from the National Turkey Federation.
As an alternative, many recommend using meat-free substitutes such as tofu or cauliflower.
Several plant-based food companies, such as Gardein and Field Roast, also offer alternatives to this dish, including vegan roasts and cutlets.
If your holiday tradition involves eating soup or salad before the main course, The Kitchn recommends starting with a bowl of vegan roasted broccoli or butternut squash soup or a salad full of Brussels sprouts and lentils.
To accompany your turkey substitute of choice, Delish also suggests making vegan green bean casserole, roasted sweet potatoes and plant-based stuffing to top off your meal – along with vegetarian gravy, of course.
But if you’re still craving mashed potatoes and mac ’n’ cheese this holiday, have no fear: plenty of plant-based alternatives taste just as good as the real thing!
Many other classics, including cranberry sauce, are also usually naturally vegan-friendly.
Room for dessert
For those of us with a sweet tooth, rest assured, there are plenty of vegan-friendly options for the final course.
Many classic staples, including apple and pumpkin pie, already have several plant-based alternatives.
But for hosts or guests looking to switch it up this season, Minimalist Baker recommends giving dishes like vegan cheesecake, pumpkin roll or chocolate zucchini bread a go.
Are you looking to pack an extra punch this holiday? Food52 also suggests trying out vegan coconut tres leches cake with strawberry sauce or a mocha whiskey mousse tart with a pretzel crust.
'Tis the sustainable season
If you’re also looking for new, eco-friendly ways to accompany your vegan menu, here are a few suggestions to make this Thanksgiving more sustainable.
If you’re hosting this year, Green Business Benchmark recommends you communicate with your guests in advance to talk through who’s coming and who’s bringing what dish – that way, you can not only help minimize food waste but also make sure there is enough for everyone.
Once you’ve narrowed down your menu, head to your local farmer’s market or grocery store to bulk up on seasonal fruits and vegetables like cranberries, apples, carrots and potatoes.
When making your plate, be sure not to get too carried away by the intoxicating smells of your favourite dishes. Instead, only take what you know you’ll eat.
If you’re itching for a little something extra, Earth 911 has a few ideas on how you can decorate for the holiday. This includes upcycling Halloween décor or repurposing items from your own home, from putting on a fresh coat of paint on folding chairs for your guests to stuffing small twinkle lights into gently used wine bottles to add a little ambiance at the dinner table.
Green Business Benchmark recommends using natural materials – including fall leaves, sticks and pinecones – and creating your DIY, Pinterest-inspired décor.
Navigating a non-vegan holiday
If you’re vegan and plan to spend Turkey Day with loved ones who serve a traditional, animal-based menu, Treehugger has a few suggestions for how to enjoy the holiday without compromising your veggie-only values.
This can include contacting the host ahead of time to let them know your plant-based preferences and offering to bring a vegan dish to the table.
But, if all else fails, you can also sneak in a quick vegan snack before the main course, and focus on aspects of the holiday that aren’t food-related, such as spending time with family and friends and, of course, giving thanks.
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