If non-vegetarians think avoiding meat is difficult in general, they probably assume it’s nearly impossible at Thanksgiving – but it’s not. From someone who’s been a vegetarian for over two years (and therefore survived through two Thanksgivings without starving), here are some tips for getting through Thanksgiving and still having enough to eat.
What to Watch Out For:
Non-vegetarian broth in the stuffing or gravy.
- A lot of times stuffing is made with chicken stock, so make sure the stuffing is vegetarian to begin with, and if stock or broth needs to be added, choose a vegetable broth. StoveTop brand does not have a vegetarian stuffing as they all contain chicken stock (even the Sage and Savory Herb). Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing is vegetarian, but you do have to add broth to it.
- Most gravy is made with some kind of meat stock, but vegetarian gravy is still delicious. Try making it with soy sauce.
Marshmallows.
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Whenever I tell people I can’t have marshmallows they’re very confused. Marshmallows are made with gelatin, which is essentially ground-up animal bones/cartilage boiled in water (appetizing, right?). Sometimes sweet potatoes are garnished with marshmallows, so ask for some before marshmallows are added or find gelatin-free marshmallows. I like Dandies marshmallows, which can be found at some larger Targets, co-ops, and natural food stores.
The turkey.
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This one is a no-brainer – don’t eat the turkey. Don’t worry about not getting enough to eat, because there is still plenty to fill up on.
What to Eat:
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Mashed potatoes. Drown them in vegetarian gravy or just smother them in butter.
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Sweet potatoes. Avoid the marshmallows and you’re good to go.
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Green bean casserole. It may look gross, but it really is pretty good.
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Vegetarian stuffing. Read the ingredients and hover over your parents’ shoulders to make sure they use vegetable broth.
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Rolls. Bread can be very filling!
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Whatever else is on the table that you’re confident is vegetarian.
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Don’t forget the pumpkin pie!
I hope this helps anybody who hasn’t yet tackled Thanksgiving as a vegetarian. When in doubt, fill up on carbs!