Happy Vegmas: A guide to a meat-free or plant-based Christmas
Isobel Vautier steps into Christmas with plenty of ideas to show how going plant-based can be just as festive and delicious.
Christmas is a time of traditions and nostalgia, and a lot of the fun at Christmas revolves around food. Being vegetarian or vegan, it’s hard not to feel left out of these traditions when celebrating with friends and family. It can sometimes be upsetting to not be able to eat your favorite foods at Christmas lunch, so, I am here to give you some tips to help make your Vegmas as tasty as it can be.
It is important to remember why you are avoiding meat or animal products in the first place, whether for moral beliefs, religion or climate awareness, you can still stay veggie without missing out on Christmas traditions. As a start, try seeing if you can veganise some of your favourite side dishes for your family. For example, using plant milk and butter in the mash potatoes, or making plant based cauliflower cheese. One of my favorite dishes is crispy brussels sprouts and bacon, so for Christmas I make this with ‘This isn’t Bacon’ and for me it tastes just like the original. There are now so many plant-based options available in the shops, keep your eyes open for any meat or animal product alternatives that you can replace this Christmas. Although it is a little different from the mainstream dishes, everyone can enjoy the Christmas trimmings together.
Although it is a little different from the mainstream dishes, everyone can enjoy the Christmas trimmings together
Next, think of what you would like to eat for your main event. There are plenty of ideas on Instagram and Tiktok, Calum Harris provides lots of easy vegan and veggies options in his Vegan Christmas series. Some of my favorites from him are nut roasts, wellingtons and roast potatoes. These recipes are easy and delicious, good for newbie veggies. However, if you’re looking for a show stopping center piece for your Christmas table, Michelin star chef Gaz Oakly has a plant-based Christmas book, with lots of recipes showcased on his website. His recipes include Leek and Sage Parcels, Vegan Brisket, Braised Chestnut Wellington, and even a Christmas ‘Ham’. Although these recipes tend to be slightly more complicated, they really do taste amazing to both plant based and non-veggies alike. Personally, I am excited to try out his dairy free Yorkshire puddings, perfect for a roast dinner.
Most importantly, Christmas is a time of sharing and giving, so if you find any recipes you particularly like, make sure to make them for your friends and family to spread the joys of Vegmas.
Merry Vegmas and happy cooking!