The holiday season is upon us, and we can all look forward to the Thanksgiving parade, excessive decorations, the time of giving, and large family dinners full of family members of varying political views. We’re not there quite yet, but it’s never too early to get some ideas and start planning. Each year, 46 million turkeys are eaten during the Thanksgiving season; however, there are many alternatives if you want to go animal-free. The internet is full of recipes for delicious sides, but it’s hard to find too many “turkey” replacements for the main dish. So here are a few brands, and a few recipes (if you dare). Find your favorite, or try them all!
1. Tofurky Vegetarian Feist
Tofurky is probably one of the most successful faux meat brands on the market, and they sell deli slices, sausage links, pizza, and hot pockets to name a few. But their holiday products are where they really shine. You can get the roast on its own (made out of vital wheat gluten and tofu), or get the Thanksgiving Feast, which comes with the roast, gravy, “wishbone jerky,” and a moist and delicious fudge brownie. Since 1995, it’s been the classic.
2. Gardein's Holiday Roast
Gardein is equally as popular as Tofurky, and their products are just as versatile. Try their Ultimate beefless burgers, crispy tenders, fishless fillets, and meatless meatballs. They’re a solid company, and their holiday roast is made out of soy protein and wheat gluten, and it's also filled with delicious cranberry rice stuffing.
3. Field Roast Celebration Roast
Field Roast is probably the most 'gourmet' vegan brand, mostly due to the price, but their products probably have the best texture. They're probably the ‘meatiest’ veggie products you’ll find, so if you want to impress your meat-eating friends, Field Roast might be the brand for you. Sometimes you deserve to splurge, and you will not regret treating yourself to Field Roast’s Celebration roast or Hazelnut Cranberry Roast this holiday season.
4. Gardein’s Stuffed Turk'y Cutlets
For whatever reason, if you’re alone this Thanksgiving and don’t want to waste too much effort, but still want that Thanksgiving dinner feel, Gardein’s stuffed cutlets are the way to go. They’re extremely simple (just stick ‘em in the microwave or oven), and make some microwaved mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, and you have a hearty Thanksgiving meal for one.
5. Seitan
Seitan, also known as wheat gluten, is a delicious substitution for meat. It has a much more “meaty” texture than tofu, and it’s packed full of protein at 20 grams per 3 ounce serving. You can either buy brands from local grocery stores or Asian markets, or you can make your own roast if you have the time.
6. Homemade Tofu Turkey
Tofu is sometimes labeled the symbol of vegetarianism (for better or for worse), and although it’s become a stereotype, it’s still pretty darn great. Extra firm tofu has 8 grams of protein per 80 calorie serving, and it taste like wonders depending on how you season and cook it. Making your own tofu turkey might take a bit of work, but it'll be worth the effort and you will finish with something you can be proud of. You can even shape it like a turkey if you are so inclined.
7. The Vegan Turducken (Warning: NSFW language)
I think we’ve all seen the video by now, but if you haven’t, it’s a vegan version of the infamous “turducken.” It’s supposed to be a funny video that humorizes the absurdity of meat, but if you want to take it literally and are feelings ambitious, you can try to make one of your own. It’s bound to be the highlight of your Thanksgiving!
8. Lentil Walnut Loaf
Switch it up, and make a hearty and comforting protein-packed lentil loaf for the main dish of your holiday meal.
9. Enchiladas
It’s not turkey, but it’s bound to be just as delicious. Fill them with your favorite brand of chorizo or chick’n and gooey cheese, and you’ll guests will really need to take a nap before dessert.
10. Cauliflower "Steak"
The average American eats over 4,000 calories on Thanksgiving, but if you don’t think Thanksgiving is a viable excuse to stuff your face with food the entire day, you can opt for some lighter dishes. Cauliflower “steaks” try to turn cauliflower into the traditional main dish, but don’t be afraid to make a vegetable the center of your meal! You don’t need to stick to the food ratios ingrained into our consciousnesses by the omnivorous society!
