How to Enjoy a Vegan Thanksgiving

For many Americans, Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and give thanks. But for vegans, Thanksgiving can be a bit of a minefield. Most traditional Thanksgiving dishes are loaded with animal products, from the turkey to the stuffing to the pumpkin pie.

So how can vegans enjoy Thanksgiving without feeling left out or deprived? By being prepared, that's how.

Cultural Foods & Traditions

With planning, vegans can enjoy all the same delicious Thanksgiving dishes as their non-vegan counterparts—minus the turkey. Below are some vegan-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning eaters.

Pass the turkey, please…

Okay, so Thanksgiving isn't the same without a turkey. What's a vegan to do? There are several meatless turkey options you can choose. Many plant-based turkeys are made with seitan, a wheat-based meat alternative, not strictly gluten-free.

Tofurky: This is probably the most well-known vegan turkey alternative. Tofurky is made with a combination of tofu and seitan and comes in roast and deli slices.

Gardein Turk'y Cutlets:  These frozen cutlets are made with a blend of wheat and soy and are seasoned with rosemary, sage, and thyme. Just cook according to the package instructions and enjoy.

Field Roast Celebration Roast: This roast is made with grains and vegetables and pre-seasoned with sage, garlic, and lemon juice. Pop it in the oven and roast it according to the package directions.

Add some sides…

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: These hearty mushrooms are packed with all the traditional stuffing flavors you love, minus the meat. They're also super easy to make—just stuff and bake!

Roasted Root Vegetables: No Thanksgiving feast is complete without roasted vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and turnips are all great options. Just toss them in olive oil and your favorite herbs, then roast them in a 400-degree oven until tender.

Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish is usually made with cream of mushroom soup, but there are plenty of vegan-friendly soups on the market these days. Substitute your favorite vegan soup for the dairy version; you're good to go.

Dessert must have…

Pumpkin Pie: Believe it or not, half of the store-bought pie crusts are not vegan. Just check the ingredients list to be sure. As for the filling, it's easy to make a vegan pie using canned pumpkin puree, soy or almond milk, sugar, spices, and cornstarch. Just mix everything and pour it into your prepared crust. Then bake according to your recipe or pie crust package instructions.

How to Avoid Bloat & Gas at Thanksgiving

Whether you're new to the vegan lifestyle or a seasoned pro, there's always room for improvement. And when it comes to enjoying a vegan Thanksgiving, you can do a few things to avoid bloat and gas.

First, give yourself plenty of time to prepare your meal. Rushing around will make you more likely to make mistakes, like forgetting to soak your beans overnight or using too much salt in your dishes.

Second, be sure to eat slowly and mindfully. When rushed, we tend to eat quickly, never tasting our food. This can lead to overeating and feeling uncomfortably full.

Finally, don't forget to drink a lot of water. Not only will this keep you hydrated, but it will also aid your body in digesting food.

Myself? I start my day with juice made fresh using my Nama J2 juicer. I increase my water intake to enjoy some foods I don't normally eat. And I plan a walk or other outdoor activity, weather permitting, for after the big meal to help me avoid that post-meal slump.

Moderation is key, no matter what diet you follow. But with a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy a vegan Thanksgiving feast that's delicious, nutritious, and bloat-free!

Thanksgiving is About the Family

Even though my family's Thanksgiving feast is not vegan, it's easy to veganize by substituting the meat with a vegan option, such as meatless roasts, and leaving out the dairy in the side dishes. I can also enjoy all the traditional Puerto Rican flavors I love without compromising my vegan diet.

The bottom line is vegans can enjoy a delicious and satisfying Thanksgiving feast without compromising their values, unbuckling their belts, or falling into a post-meal turkey coma. So go forth and feast, vegans. Your Thanksgiving table awaits. Buen provecho!

Let me show you how to make lifestyle changes that will empower you to heal your body, mind, and soul. As a vegan certified juice therapist, I work with clients one-on-one to help them reach their health and wellness goals. Contact me today to learn more.