What to Make for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

Vegans choose not to eat dairy or animal products, and usually miss out on some great eats over holiday season as a result. If you're preparing Christmas dinner for vegans in the family, or are vegan yourself, don't settle for bland and tasteless entrees as you prepare for the festivities! From stuffed Tofurkey to vegan cheesecake, there are dozens of options available for the vegan Christmas dinner table. A few modifications of the classics is all it takes to get started. Here's what to make for a delicious vegan Christmas dinner:

Vegan Turkey for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

Take your pick of brand name Tofurkey, or simply make a baked tofu log with all the trimmings. You can make your own 'tofu turkey' by mixing together chickpea flour, soy flour, gluten powder, and yeast flakes. After that, you just add some extra-firm tofu and mold it into your desired shape (turkey sculpture optional). You can make a simple bread stuffing with vegan bread cubes, onion, celery, and olive oil. Try this recipe to create your masterpiece.

Vegan Green Bean Casserole for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

You don't have to appreciate the virtues of green bean casserole only on Thanksgiving! Add this holiday dish to the Christmas dinner table, and make it with soy milk and fresh mushrooms for a healthier, vegan-friendly treat. This Green Bean Casserole recipe is simple to make and plenty tasty.

Vegan Tofu Pot Pie for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

If your family enjoys savory pies over the holidays, a vegan tofu pot pie is a simple alternative to chicken or beef. You just use firm tofu in the mixture, and add an assortment of seasonal vegetables for the filling. Use soy milk for brushing the top of the crust and you're all set! You can find dairy-free, pre-made pie crusts at many specialty stores. This Tofu Pot Pie recipe from Vegan-Food.net is a great start for your new tradition!

Vegan Gravy for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

No holiday dinner is complete without some gravy, and you can make a completely animal-free version by using yeast flakes, soy sauce, and dry white wine. It's simple to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for later use. Use chopped seitan or tofu chunks to create 'giblets' if needed. Try this recipe from the Vegan Village for a nice addition to the table.

Vegan Mashed Potatoes for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

You need a few sides to accompany the Christmas dinner extravaganza, and mashed potatoes are a definite must. It's simple to make creamy and delicious mashed potatoes with a simple soy milk substitution. Make use of some tofu sour cream and you'll create the perfect replication of whipped mashed potatoes! Try this recipe from the Vegan Chef.

Vegan Desserts for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

Vegans can still indulge that sweet tooth with Vegan Pumpkin Pie, Vegan Cheesecake, and even Vegan Chocolate Cake. Common substitutions for dairy and fats in these desserts include tofu, soy milk, rice milk, and tofu cream. You can also use carob instead of chocolate or most recipes.

Vegan Eggnog for a Vegan Christmas Dinner

Whether you're toasting at the dinner table or just enjoying a break by mingling at the party, eggnog is a necessity over Christmas! You can enjoy vegan eggnog by making it with silken tofu, soy milk, and vanilla flavoring. Try this simple recipe for vegan eggnog from 'The Almost No-Fat Holiday Cookbook' for a quick drink the entire party can enjoy--guilt-free!

Enjoy your very merry, very vegan Christmas dinner this year with modified recipes of the classics. Vegans no longer have to settle for the vegetable tray at the party; just whip up a few of these tasty creations and enjoy the holidays in good spirits!