How to get ready for thanksgiving as somebody trying to be more plant-based

Getting ready for Thanksgiving as someone trying to be more plant-based can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Here are some tips to help you plan a plant-based Thanksgiving:

Plan Your Menu: Start by deciding what dishes you want to serve. Traditional Thanksgiving dishes can be adapted to plant-based versions. Consider dishes like roasted vegetables, vegan stuffing, mushroom gravy, cranberry sauce, and plant-based desserts.

Experiment with New Recipes: Look for plant-based recipes online or in cookbooks. Experiment with new dishes and find what you and your guests enjoy. There are many creative plant-based recipes for holiday dishes.

Include Protein Sources: Incorporate plant-based protein sources like tofu, tempeh, seitan, legumes, and nuts into your dishes. For example, a lentil loaf or tofu turkey can be great centerpiece options.

Substitute Dairy and Eggs: Explore dairy and egg alternatives. Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, oat) in place of cow's milk and products like vegan butter or coconut oil. For egg replacements, try flax eggs, chia seeds, or commercial egg replacers.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a Thanksgiving staple. Prepare a variety of colorful veggies with olive oil, herbs, and spices for a flavorful side dish.

Stuffing: Make a delicious plant-based stuffing using vegetable broth, whole-grain bread, herbs, onions, and celery. You can add nuts and dried fruits for extra flavor.

Gravy: Create a vegan gravy using vegetable broth, flour, and plant-based butter or oil. Season it with herbs and spices for a savory taste.

Cranberry Sauce: Cranberry sauce is naturally plant-based. Make your own by simmering cranberries with sugar or a sweetener of your choice.

Salads and Sides: Offer a variety of salads and sides like mashed sweet potatoes, green bean almondine, and a fresh garden salad with plant-based dressings.

Desserts: Bake or buy plant-based desserts like pumpkin pie made with a dairy-free crust and a coconut or nut milk-based filling. You can also consider other sweet treats like vegan apple crisp or chocolate avocado mousse.

Communicate with Guests: If you're hosting, let your guests know in advance that you'll be serving a plant-based Thanksgiving. They may want to contribute with their own plant-based dishes or be prepared for the menu.

Dining Out: If you're dining out for Thanksgiving, check with the restaurant in advance to see if they have plant-based options or if they can accommodate your dietary preferences.

Enjoy the Experience: Remember that Thanksgiving is not just about the food; it's about spending time with loved ones. Focus on the joy of the holiday and the gratitude you feel.

Leftovers: Don't forget about leftovers. Many plant-based Thanksgiving dishes are just as delicious the next day, so you can enjoy them for days to come.

By planning ahead, experimenting with new recipes, and being open to new flavors and ingredients, you can have a delightful plant-based Thanksgiving that will satisfy both your taste buds and your commitment to a more plant-based lifestyle.