5 Savory, Vegan Mains to Wow Your Thanksgiving Guests

Thanksgiving traditions often revolve around turkey, but who says you have to stick to the same old menu every year? This holiday season, consider shaking things up with delicious plant-based alternatives that not only add variety to your feast but also contribute to a more sustainable celebration.

‍

From savory seitan roasts to impressive stuffed squashes, there are plenty of options to create a memorable and sustainable Thanksgiving meal. Here are five vegan Thanksgiving dishes to replace the traditional turkey:

‍

Stuffed Seitan Roast

‍

This stuffed seitan roast is a plant-based masterpiece that rivals traditional turkey. With its juicy, meaty texture and classic sage and onion stuffing, it perfectly mimics the taste and appearance of a stuffed turkey joint. The addition of cranberries and an umami-rich glaze makes this vegan centerpiece a standout dish that even meat-eaters will enjoy.

‍

Check out the recipe→

‍

Burmese Tofu

‍

Burmese tofu is a unique and flavorful protein dish that's sure to impress everyone. Made from chickpea flour, oil, and water, this sturdy tofu-like dish can be dressed up or served with traditional Thanksgiving sides like vegan gravy, cranberry sauce, and dairy-free mashed potatoes. This versatile option allows you to maintain classic Thanksgiving flavors while catering to vegan and vegetarian diets.

‍

Check out the recipe→

‍

Herb-Crumbed Whole Roasted Cauliflower

‍

The whole roasted cauliflower head is perfect for those seeking a vegetarian Thanksgiving option. Roasted with rosemary and thyme and coated in a rich herb crumb, it provides stunning texture and flavor as a centerpiece. This versatile dish can serve as a main for those avoiding 'fake' meats or as a side dish alongside a vegan protein alternative, making it an excellent turkey replacement for various dietary preferences.

‍

Check out the recipe→

‍

Also read: 25+ Plant-Based Sides for Thanksgiving‍

‍

Tofu Steak Sandwiches

‍

The frozen and marinated tofu "steak” is a surprisingly delightful vegetarian alternative to traditional turkey. With a subtly chewy texture that appeals to both vegans and meat-eaters, this dish offers a satisfying main course. The lemony, garlicky marinade can be customized with various ingredients like apple cider vinegar or lime juice, allowing for creative flavor combinations that can hold their own against traditional Thanksgiving fare.

‍

Check out the recipe→

‍

Squashduckens

‍

Squashducken is a show-stopping centerpiece that redefines vegetarian Thanksgiving cuisine. This impressive dish features multiple squashes nested inside each other, reminiscent of a Turducken, and can be made vegan by substituting cheese with plant-based alternatives. While it requires more effort than preparing a turkey, the Squashducken is guaranteed to be the talk of your Thanksgiving table.

‍