Christmas is a time for warmth, joy and of course, indulging in delicious food. If you’re a vegan, you may have encountered your fair share of nut roasts during past Christmases. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey beyond nut roasts and provide nutritional tips to make your Christmas feast a truly wholesome experience.

Christmas and indulgence go hand in hand, but it doesn’t mean you have to forsake nutrition. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between a happy stomach and health!

Whipping Up a Vegan Christmas Feast: What to consider:

• Plan a nutrient-dense menu– Incorporate a variety of whole foods like vegetables, legumes, grains, and fruits. These plant-based staples are brimming with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre.
• Veg out on the sides! Elevate your mains with an abundance of vibrant, nutrient-packed seasonal veggies that come alive during the holiday season. Think roasted parsnips, crispy brussel sprouts, butternut and lentil stuffing, cranberries, and velvety mashed sweet potatoes.
• Protein-packed mains– Instead of sticking with the old nut roast tradition, why not venture into protein-packed mains like baked or glazed tofu, roasted seitan, mushroom Wellington, or a delightful stuffed squash? For an extra protein punch, don’t forget to incorporate legumes, nuts or seeds.
• Christmas isn’t Christmas unless your plate is drowning in gravy. Right? Gravy is a quintessential part of a Christmas feast. Get creative and use vegetable broth, miso paste, and nutritional yeast. This alternative is brimming with umami flavour, lower in saturated fats, and rich in vitamins.
• Detectable desserts– No Christmas celebration is complete without a sweet ending! Opt for plant-based treats that incorporate plant-based ingredients like coconut milk, almond butter and dates to create sumptuous pies, cakes, and cookies. Need an extra nutritional boost? Try adding fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and oats to your desserts.
• Mindful Portion Control- Indulgence doesn’t have to mean overindulgence. Practice mindful portion control to enjoy your Christmas meal without going overboard. Relish each bite and listen to your body’s signals of fullness.

While a well-planned vegan Christmas feast can supply a wealth of nutrients, it’s sensible to consider supplementing your diet with certain nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, as these can be less accessible in a strict vegan diet. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional when considering supplements.

This holiday season, unleash your inner chef and break free from the typical nut roast tradition. Merry Christmas and may your feast be both delectable and nutritious!

Nut roast-free recipes to try:

• Hassel back butternut squash recipe.
• Hispi cabbage!
• Maple Glazed Tofu with balsamic red cabbage and cranberries.

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