Celebrating Festive Holidays as a Vegetarian or Vegan: Menu and Traditions

For those who identify as vegetarians or vegan, the holiday season can present unique challenges and opportunities. It's important to navigate traditions while ensuring a fulfilling and delicious meal. Delve into the realities of preparing and enjoying a vegetarian or vegan Christmas dinner, and learn about flexible recipes that can accommodate any dietary preference.

The Challenge and Reality of Being a Vegetarian or Vegan at Holidays

As a non-vegetarian, my holiday meals usually involve turkey and similar dishes. The idea of being a vegetarian or vegan seems to create an over-the-top narrative of deprivation and discomfort. Contrary to popular belief, being a vegetarian or vegan does not mean living in a state of constant denial. In fact, there are abundant options to create a satisfying and joyful festive meal, especially when focusing on side dishes and alternative proteins.

Adapting Traditional Holiday Dishes

Side dishes play a crucial role in any meal, and the vegetarian or vegan options available can be quite versatile. Start with simple, appealing ingredients:

Rice Salad: A healthy and tasty start, bringing a variety of textures to the table. Fruit Salad: A refreshing end to the meal, perfect for a lighter feel. Jello Salad: While it might sound unconventional, a well-prepared jello salad can add a fun element to your meal. Potatoes Au Gratin: A comforting and hearty choice, especially when made with plant-based ingredients. Green Bean Casserole: A classic dish that can be adapted with plant-based butter or milk. Mac n Cheese: A beloved comfort food that can easily be veganized. Mashed Potatoes: Prepared with golden potatoes and the skin on, these are a staple in any meal, and can be easily veganized with plant-based butter or milk.

For those looking to add more protein to their dishes, there are also alternatives like vegan mushroom gravy and vegan meat substitutes, such as Beyond Sausage. These provide a satisfying and flavorful option for a meat-eater alongside a vegetarian or vegan feast.

Traditional Holiday Fare and Family Preferences

When hosting a holiday meal for a mixed group, striking a balance is key. The traditional feast often includes a mix of dishes that cater to various dietary preferences. For example, in my family, some members are vegetarian or vegan, while others enjoy meat. To make everyone happy, we often serve a mix of dishes that accommodate both groups. A vegetable-based gravy that uses plant-based butter or milk, and a vegan pumpkin pie or fruit pie go a long way in ensuring that everyone feels included.

Often, the centerpiece of the meal is a vegan "meat" loaf, or a vegan meat substitute product. This not only satisfies meat-eaters but also adds to the variety of the meal. For the vegetarian or vegan members, choosing traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans with almonds and caramelized onions, and a homemade cranberry stuffing ensures a meal that is both satisfying and delicious. A mushroom gravy rounded out with a few cookies or pies for dessert completes the perfect holiday meal.

The Vegan Roast: A Tradition Keepsake

For those seeking a traditional centerpiece, a vegan roast can be a great option. My mother, the oen who values tradition, always wants to include a vegan roast in the menu, and we usually opt for the Cranberry Hazelnut Roast from Field Roast. This is often preferred over other brands like Tufurky or Gardein because it retains a authentic taste and texture. Field Roast, Quorn, and Worthington Foods are good choices for those who prefer store-bought options, with Field Roast typically seen as the gold standard due to consistent quality.

While traditionalists might argue about the necessity of actual meat, the vegan roast provides a suitable alternative that satisfies the craving for a hearty main dish. Other comforting additions like peas, sugar cookies, and pre-made pies also add to the festive aura.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the holiday meal is about coming together as a family and enjoying delicious food. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or a meat-eater, the key is to make the meal inclusive and memorable for everyone. The meal doesn’t need to be overly complicated — simplicity and tradition can be the best guide. Whether it's a simple mashed potato dish or a well-prepared roast, the joy of the holiday season comes from sharing the meal and the company of loved ones.

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