A Vegetarian Thanksgiving

So, you’re hosting Thanksgiving and expecting vegetarian guests. The idea may be daunting (especially if you aren’t a vegetarian yourself), but don’t fret about preparing two tables: one large meal featuring meats, and a separate vegetarian meal. Most vegetarians don’t require a ‘meat equivalent’ at Thanksgiving. And if they do, all is not lost; there are plenty options to broaden your chef-like cooking skills.

Not Meat Allowed

For Thanksgiving, considering those living a vegetarian lifestyle are around the table, here are some ideas to incorporate healthy food preparation with vegetarianism in mind:

• Bake a dish of stuffing outside the turkey.
• Prepare a small portion of vegetarian gravy.
• Separate cooking utensils to avoid ‘cross-contamination’ between meat foods and vegetarian foods.
• When recipes are adaptable, utilize substitutions like vegetarian broth, soy margarine (preparations without whey are suitable for vegans), soy milk, and kosher marshmallows which are made without gelatin.
• Use vegetable oils (rather than animal fats) for frying, and veggie shortening (like Crisco) for pie crust.
• Read ingredients for pre-packaged foods, checking for terms like gelatin, whey, and ‘natural flavors’ (possibly derived from animals).
• Fix plenty of veggie and fruit side dishes but keep them plain. Squash, sweet potatoes, and green beans are representative of the season.
• Provide plenty of breads, beverages, fresh fruits, and non-gelatin desserts.
• Invite the vegetarian guest(s) to cook a small “Tofurkey” or vegetarian ‘turkey equivalent’ entrée to share as part of the Thanksgiving meal. Even meat-eating guests will be curious enough to at least try it.
• Encourage and solicit participation of vegetarian guests for assistance, tips, or recipes. The added benefit from healthy, nutrient-dense vegetarian recipes is welcome year-round.

Traditionally, Thanksgiving Day has chiefly been about the food. But keep in mind, more significantly, it’s about gratitude, being with loved ones, encouraging togetherness, happiness, and serenity. A well-thought-out meal plan that’s all-inclusive is a big step in that direction.

Until next time, stay serif, stay safe/well, and read on (vegetarian cookbooks come to mind).