I’ve been vegetarian for two years now, which means I’m heading into my third holiday season meat-free. And every November, I seem to run into the same problem: a little something I like to call “empty-plate syndrome.”
While there’s a lot more to Thanksgiving than just the turkey, being vegetarian or vegan makes you realize how meat even infiltrates the Thanksgiving side dishes! If you, too, have suffered from empty-plate syndrome during the holidays, then fear no more. I’ve compiled a list of my favorite veggie-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that you can share with your fellow vegetarians, vegans, and even carnivores.
- Vegetarian Gravy
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What are mashed potatoes without gravy? This is a veggie problem that is not talked about enough, IMO. My favorite veggie gravy recipe is quick, cheap to make, and vegan! Butter and flour give it that thick, heavy gravy goodness, while Tamari or soy sauce adds that punch of umami. Find the recipe here.
My personal twist? Add diced mushrooms during the onion step for a bit of extra texture.
- Vegetarian Stuffing
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Personally, giving up my aunt’s stuffing at Thanksgiving was – no exaggeration – one of the hardest things about going vegetarian. I had no choice but to find an acceptable substitute, and last year, I think I perfected it. This recipe has all the depth of flavor and texture of a traditional stuffing but without the meat. And, like the gravy, this one is vegan, too! The recipe is here.
My personal twist? Crisp the bread in the oven for 10 minutes before adding it. Also, if you’re like me and didn’t grow up with apples in your stuffing, substitute it with a cup of cooked chestnuts.
- My Favorite Mac ’n’ Cheese
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Since I started making it, this recipe has become a family favorite. It’s got everything: cheesy, crispy, creamy, and one of the most filling dishes for a vegetarian on Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, this one isn’t vegan, but there are tons of great vegan mac recipes out there (see here).
My personal twist? This recipe can come out a little dry. To avoid that, add a dollop of cream cheese, another half can evaporated milk, and use only the egg whites, leaving out the yolks.
- Chickpea Pot Pie
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The sides are great and all, but us veggie-lovers need our protein, too! Those giant roasted cauliflower heads never really appealed to me as a Thanksgiving main dish, but this pot pie is delicious, warm, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, psst…it’s vegan!
My personal twist? Use regular potatoes for the mash, but sub sweet potatoes for the diced.
- Delicious Brownies
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Don’t worry; I didn’t forget dessert. My mom and aunt usually take care of the pies, but my sister and I like to contribute cookies or brownies to the sweets table. We used this recipe a couple of years back, and let’s just say we took home an empty tray.
To make it vegan, use dairy-free chocolate (like Simple Truth brand), vegan butter, and 2/3 cup mashed sweet potato in place of the 2 eggs.
My personal twist? For a holiday flavor, add a sprinkle of peppermint chocolate chips.
Armed with these recipes, I hope you can finally take your seat at the Thanksgiving table with your plate overflowing with delicious, veggie goodness. Happy cooking!