If you’re planning a vegan Thanksgiving menu and want to impress your guests with flavorful dishes, you’ve come to the right place. Cooking vegan dishes doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming; there are plenty of simple and delicious recipes that will leave everyone satisfied. From hearty main courses to delectable sides, desserts, and more, we have rounded up the best easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes that even non-vegans will enjoy. Get ready to create a mouth-watering vegan feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
What Is Vegan Thanksgiving
Vegan Thanksgiving is a celebration that uses no animal products, including turkey, eggs, dairy, and honey, and instead focuses on creative, delicious, and healthy plant-based dishes. It is a way to celebrate the holiday while still maintaining a healthy diet and reducing your environmental impact.
The Benefits of a Vegan Thanksgiving
There are many benefits to having a vegan Thanksgiving. First and foremost, it is a way to help animals by not consuming animal products, which helps to reduce animal cruelty. Additionally, it is a healthier option as plant-based foods are generally lower in saturated fats and higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Vegan Thanksgiving also reduces the environmental impact of livestock production, which can be resource-intensive and harmful to the planet.
- Reduce Animal Cruelty: By not consuming animal products, you can reduce the demand for industrial farming, which can have negative impacts on animals.
- Healthier Option: Plant-based foods are generally healthier as they are lower in saturated fats and higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Environmental Sustainability: Plant-based Thanksgiving reduces the environmental impact of livestock farming, which can be resource-intensive and polluting.
Why Choose Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family reunions, and traditional abundance. Unfortunately, the way we celebrate this holiday can be harmful to our health, the environment, and other living beings. Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes are high in calories, sugar, and animal fat, putting our bodies at risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. They also rely heavily on animal products such as turkey, butter, cream, and cheese, which are often produced in inhumane and polluting conditions.
Fortunately, there are many good reasons to choose vegan Thanksgiving recipes instead. Veganism is a dietary and lifestyle choice that avoids all animal products, including meat, eggs, dairy, and honey, and instead focuses on plant-based foods and alternatives that are rich in nutrients, fiber, and flavor. By giving up animal products, we can improve our health, reduce our carbon footprint, and protect the rights and dignity of animals.
The Benefits of Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
Here are some of the main benefits of choosing vegan Thanksgiving recipes:
- Better Health: Plant-based foods are naturally low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories, and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that vegan diets can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke, and improve overall energy, digestion, and longevity.
- Environmental Sustainability: Animal agriculture is a major contributor to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and other environmental problems. By choosing vegan foods, we can reduce our carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and support more sustainable and ethical food systems.
- Compassionate Living: Animals are sentient beings that can experience pain, joy, and fear just like humans. By avoiding animal products, we can reduce their suffering and exploitation, and promote a more compassionate and respectful world for all beings.
In addition to these benefits, vegan Thanksgiving recipes can be just as delicious, diverse, and festive as traditional ones, if not more. Vegan foods come in a wide range of flavors, textures, and colors, and can be prepared in countless creative ways. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or a curious omnivore, there are many easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes that you can try and enjoy. Here are some delicious and simple examples:
| Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole | Sweet potatoes, canned coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, pecans | Preheat the oven to 375°F. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes and boil them for 10-15 minutes. Drain and mash them with the coconut milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and sprinkle with pecans. Bake for 25-30 minutes. |
| Vegan Mushroom Gravy | Mushrooms, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, flour, thyme, soy sauce | In a pan, sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic until tender. Add the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, and soy sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Blend the mixture until smooth. |
| Vegan Pumpkin Pie | Pumpkin puree, coconut milk, cornstarch, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg | Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix all the ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour the mixture into a pre-baked pie crust and bake for 40-50 minutes. Let cool before serving. |
These recipes are just a few examples of the endless possibilities of vegan Thanksgiving. By choosing vegan foods, we can expand our culinary horizons, reduce our impact on the planet, and celebrate the joy of gratitude and compassion. Happy vegan Thanksgiving!
6 Easy Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and family and share a delicious meal. For many, that means a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. But if you’re a vegan, you might be wondering what to serve. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious vegan dishes that you can serve on Thanksgiving. Here are six easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to please everyone at the table.
1. Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic Thanksgiving dish, but it’s usually made with cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, which are not vegan-friendly. This vegan version of green bean casserole uses a creamy cashew sauce and crispy shallots instead of fried onions. The result is a rich, flavorful casserole that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shallots, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2-3 hours
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread out in a large baking dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until green beans are tender but still crisp.
While the green beans are baking, make the cashew sauce. Drain the cashews and blend with vegetable broth, garlic, onion powder, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and nutritional yeast until smooth. Set aside.
In a frying pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Fry the sliced shallots until crispy, then remove and drain on a paper towel.
Once the green beans are done, mix with the cashew sauce and top with the crispy shallots. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbly.
2. Vegan Mashed Potatoes
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without mashed potatoes. This vegan version of mashed potatoes uses vegan butter and almond milk, creating a creamy and indulgent side dish.
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Salt and pepper
Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. Drain well and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or ricer.
Add the vegan butter and almond milk and continue to mash until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Vegan Gravy
Gravy is the perfect topping for mashed potatoes and stuffing, but traditional gravy is made with turkey drippings. This vegan gravy recipe uses mushrooms and vegetable broth to create a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for any Thanksgiving meal.
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms, chopped | 1 cup |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Thyme, dried | 1 teaspoon |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic in a large saucepan until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their liquid.
Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and thyme and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Mix the flour with a little water to form a paste. Slowly whisk the paste into the mushroom mixture, stirring constantly. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Vegan Stuffing
Stuffing is another classic Thanksgiving dish that’s usually made with bread, butter, and chicken broth. This vegan stuffing recipe uses vegetable broth and lots of fresh herbs to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.
- 1 pound bread, chopped into cubes
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2-3 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly browned and crispy.
In a large frying pan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large bowl and add the sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, and vegetable broth. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the stuffing into a large baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden brown.
5. Vegan Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a sweet treat. This vegan pumpkin pie recipe uses coconut milk and pumpkin puree to create a rich and creamy pie that’s perfect for dessert.
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 can coconut milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pie crust
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.
6. Vegan Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a simple and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any Thanksgiving meal. This recipe uses a mix of seasonal vegetables and herbs to create a colorful and flavorful dish.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, red onion, garlic, rosemary, and thyme with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Spread the vegetables out on a large baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and golden brown. Serve hot.
Variations of Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
Thanksgiving is the biggest feast of the year, and it is a great time of the year for families to gather together, catch up, and bond over delicious food. However, for vegans, the traditional Thanksgiving recipes might be a challenge to prepare and serve for their friends and family. But with a little creativity and substitution of key ingredients, classic Thanksgiving recipes can become vegan-friendly, and there are also different flavors of vegan Thanksgiving recipes coming from different cuisines.
Vegan Mashed Potatoes
One of the most classic Thanksgiving dishes is mashed potatoes. While traditional mashed potatoes often contain a lot of dairy, it is easy to make vegan versions of this dish. To make vegan mashed potatoes, start by boiling potatoes until they are soft. Then, mash them together with dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and garlic. Add salt and black pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add vegan cheese, vegan sour cream, or vegan bacon bits on top of the mashed potatoes.
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
A classic dish that often makes an appearance at Thanksgiving dinners is green bean casserole. To make a vegan version of green bean casserole, use fresh or canned green beans, vegan mushroom soup, dairy-free milk, breadcrumbs, and fried onions. Mix the ingredients together in a casserole dish and bake in the oven until the casserole has a crispy golden top. This vegan version of green bean casserole is as creamy and delicious as the original.
Vegan Stuffing
Stuffing is another classic Thanksgiving dish that can easily be made vegan. To make vegan stuffing, start by sautéing onions, celery, and mushrooms in vegan butter until they are tender. Then, mix the vegetables with breadcrumbs, vegetable broth, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and bake it in the oven until the top is crispy. Serve vegan stuffing with your favorite vegan gravy.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a slice of pumpkin pie. To make a vegan pumpkin pie, you can use a pre-made pie crust or make your own. For the filling, mix pumpkin puree, dairy-free milk, cornstarch, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spices together until the texture is smooth. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake in the oven until it is set. Allow the pie to cool down before serving.
Vegan Thanksgiving recipes are not only delicious but also healthy and environmentally friendly. With a little creativity and substitution of key ingredients, classic Thanksgiving dishes can be transformed into vegan-friendly versions. Impress your loved ones with vegan twists on the traditional favorites and show them that vegan food can be just as delicious!
Tips for Preparing Vegan Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time where families gather and celebrate while enjoying a delicious meal. This year, instead of the traditional turkey, why not try some mouth-watering vegan dishes? Preparing a vegan Thanksgiving meal can be stressful, especially if it’s your first time, but with these tips, your meal will be a hit.
Plan ahead
The key to a successful vegan Thanksgiving is planning ahead. Decide on your guest list and the number of dishes you will make. Create a timeline of tasks and allow a few extra days for unexpected emergencies. Plan your table setting and décor to give a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Shop for vegan ingredients early
If you plan to prepare a vegan Thanksgiving meal, you will need to shop for unique ingredients. Avoid last-minute rushes by shopping a few weeks ahead of time, as some of these ingredients may not be found in your local grocery store. Shop for local farmers’ markets, health food stores, and online stores. Don’t forget to compare prices and look for discounts.
To ensure you’ve got all the necessary ingredients and equipment at your disposal, make a detailed menu for your meal. Plan your menu around seasonal plants and vegetables to keep it fresh and flavorful. Find vegan alternatives to replace the traditional meat dishes such as, for example, vegan roast, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and sweet potato casserole. Research vegan dessert options, such as pumpkin pie with cashew cream, and cheesecake made with tofu.
Prepare dishes ahead of time
There’s no need to do everything on Thanksgiving day. Simplify your cooking by preparing dishes ahead of time. Many dishes can be prepped in advance and refrigerated or even frozen. Mashed potatoes, gravy, and casseroles, for example, can be cooked the day before and reheated just before serving. This way, you won’t feel too overwhelmed on the day of the Thanksgiving celebration.
Have a backup dish
Always have a backup dish in case something goes wrong with any of your main dishes, such as a burnt pie or an overcooked casserole. Consider keeping a gluten-free or soy-free dish in case some of your guests have specific food allergies.
Start cooking early
Don’t underestimate how long it will take to prepare your vegan Thanksgiving dishes. Many vegan dishes require several steps and require a bit of patience. Start cooking early to avoid last-minute stresses. It’s better to finish cooking earlier and reheat food later rather than running late and keeping your guests waiting. This way, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the company of your guests.
Vegan Thanksgiving FAQs
Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy being with family and indulging in delicious food, but it can be overwhelming for vegans. Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan Thanksgiving to help you plan and enjoy your holiday.
Do vegan Thanksgiving recipes require special ingredients?
Not necessarily. Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes can be made vegan by using substitutions like plant-based milk and butter. However, there are some vegan ingredients that may be new to you, such as nutritional yeast and tempeh. These ingredients are easy to find at health food stores and can be added to dishes like mashed potatoes and stuffing for a vegan twist.
How long will vegan Thanksgiving leftovers last?
Vegan leftovers can last just as long as non-vegan leftovers, usually 3-4 days in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer. To maximize freshness, store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
What if my family members aren’t vegan?
It can be challenging to navigate a non-vegan Thanksgiving as a vegan, but it’s important to remember that you can still enjoy the holiday without compromising your values. Offer to bring a vegan dish to share, or even host your own vegan Friendsgiving. If your family is willing to try vegan dishes, introduce them to some of your favorite recipes and show them how delicious and satisfying vegan food can be.
How can I make vegan Thanksgiving fun and festive?
Vegan Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be boring! Get creative with your dishes by incorporating fall flavors like pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Serve appetizers like vegan cheese and crackers and roasted vegetable skewers. Decorate your table with fall-themed decor like leaves and pumpkins. And most importantly, enjoy the company of your loved ones and cherish the memories you make together.
What are some easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes?
- Vegan mashed potatoes – use plant-based milk and butter for a creamy texture
- Roasted brussels sprouts – toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until crispy
- Vegan stuffing – use vegetable broth and flax eggs for a delicious, hearty side dish
- Vegan pumpkin pie – use coconut cream and maple syrup for a sweet, creamy dessert
With these easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes and tips, you can enjoy a delicious and stress-free holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!
Happy Vegan Thanksgiving!
Thanks for reading this article about easy vegan Thanksgiving recipes! We hope you found some inspiration to add some delicious plant-based dishes to your holiday feast. Remember, there are so many tasty options out there beyond just Tofurky and cranberry sauce. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to switch things up, these dishes are sure to impress. Make sure to visit again later for more food inspiration. Happy cooking!