Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of every November. The festival is all about gratitude, family, and, of course, food. Traditional dishes like roast turkey, buttery mashed potatoes, cranberry salad, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie often take centre stage. But since most of these dishes are non-veg or made using dairy products, how will a vegan enjoy Thanksgiving? Worry not. We have compiled the ten best vegan dishes that perfectly capture the spirit and warmth of the festival.
10 Best Vegan Dishes For Thanksgiving
1. Vegan Mushroom Wellington
A Mushroom Wellington is one of the easiest ways to replace roasted turkey on a Thanksgiving table. This favourite vegan dish brings earthy flavours to your centrepiece. The pastry adds a nice crunch, while the mushroom stuffing has that meaty flavour profile. It’s well-balanced, hearty, and soul-soothing.
2. Cauliflower Roast
If you are not in the mood for the usual Mushroom Wellington, then you still have another great option. The cauliflower roast offers a rich, nutty, savoury flavour. It turns crisp and golden outside but stays soft inside. The herbs and spices make it taste even better. It also pairs well with many vegan Thanksgiving side dishes.
3. Lentil And Chickpea Loaf
This plant-based loaf is a healthy vegan alternative to the traditional meatloaf. It has a savoury, umami-rich flavour. You can expect earthy notes from the lentils and chickpeas. The loaf works well with any vegan gravy. It’s comforting and filling, and even non-vegetarians will enjoy it at the table.
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4. Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potato casserole is one of the traditional dishes many include on their Thanksgiving table. But vegans can consider stuffed sweet potatoes instead. You can fill them with black beans, quinoa, and spices. Additions like maple syrup or pecans also work well. They are cosy, warm, and perfect for the night of celebration. You can also fill them with herbs and nuts. They are versatile, and that’s what makes them the best.
5. Vegan Pumpkin And Sage Pasta
A vegan Pumpkin and Sage Pasta will be the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. Instead of dairy, this dish uses a pumpkin puree sauce flavoured with garlic and onions. Sage adds an aromatic note to the dish. The recipe is tempting enough to lure the food lovers to the table. Non-vegetarians will forget all about roast turkey after tasting this wholesome vegan pasta.
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6. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
No Thanksgiving feast is truly complete without a comforting Shepherd’s Pie. And yes, it can have a vegan twist. This vegan dish works as a cosy, comforting main on the dinner table for the Thanksgiving celebration this year. It’s made with mushrooms, lentils, tomato paste, and aromatic herbs. You can use plant-based cheese to make it creamy, because taste can’t be compromised. This pie pairs well with vegan gravy and, of course, mashed potatoes.
7. Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Maple-roasted Brussels Sprouts are a popular Thanksgiving side dish. They are simple but still have that festive feel. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while roasting brings out a crunchy texture. It doesn’t use any non-veg or dairy products. And trust us, this vegan bowl of sprouts will be empty out even before the Thanksgiving dinner ends.
8. Butternut Squash And Cranberry Salad
One of the best vegan Thanksgiving sides, this salad not only tastes delicious but also adds colour to your festive spread. Expect toasted nuts, healthy greens, and soft roasted squash paired with cranberries. The tangy and sweet notes are perfect. The salad is light on the stomach and balances out the heavier dishes on the table.
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9. Vegan Pumpkin Pie
A vegan pumpkin pie keeps the spirit of Thanksgiving alive. Instead of milk, it uses full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy taste. Pumpkin pie is a staple on a Thanksgiving table, and a vegan version lets you enjoy the dessert without any worries. It tastes just as comforting as the traditional one.
10. Vegan Apple Crumble
A vegan Apple Crumble is a delicious way to end the celebration without relying on dairy. Think soft, spiced apples flavoured with cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a crumbly mixture made using vegan butter and flour. It’s a crowd-winning dessert. You can also serve it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
So, which of these vegan dishes are you including on your Thanksgiving table this year? We will go for the Apple Crumble. It’s definitely the best on the list.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ rimmabondarenko and rimmabondarenko