Delicious Turkey Substitutes for Vegetarians This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning that big turkey dinner. But what if you or some of your guests don’t eat meat? Have no fear, there are plenty of tasty turkey substitutes that even meat-eaters will love.

As a vegetarian myself, I know the struggle of finding something comparable to turkey for the holidays. After years of experimenting, I’ve discovered some fantastic options that capture the savory flavor and hearty texture of meat. Keep reading for my top vegetarian-friendly turkey substitutes, along with cooking tips and recipe ideas to make your holiday feast complete.

Why Choose a Turkey Substitute?

There are a few great reasons to skip the turkey this Thanksgiving if you, your family, or your guests don’t eat meat:

• Ethical reasons More people are reducing meat for animal welfare and environmental reasons Providing vegetarian options makes your meal accessible

• Health reasons: Diets lower in meat are linked to reduced risk for various diseases. Plant-based foods offer nutritional benefits.

• Taste preferences: Even meat-eaters appreciate a break from turkey sometimes. Vegetarian mains provide welcome variety.

• Food allergies: Poultry allergies are common. Veggie-based substitutes prevent reactions for guests with allergies.

No matter the reason for wanting a turkey alternative, having a satisfying centerpiece option ensures everyone can partake in the holiday fun.

Best Turkey Substitutes for Vegetarians

From soy foods to vibrant vegetables, grains and beans, here are my top picks for turkey stand-ins:

1. Tofu

Tofu is a versatile soy-based food that takes on the flavors of sauces and seasonings. For Thanksgiving have your guests fooled with

• Tofurky: This popular brand makes turkey-style roasts out of tofu.

• Herb-crusted baked tofu Coat firm tofu in breadcrumbs and herbs, then bake until crispy.

• Tofu pot pie: Bake cubed tofu in gravy, veggies and a flaky crust for comfort food.

2. Seitan

With a meaty texture similar to poultry, seitan is a wheat gluten-based protein source ideal for vegetarian dishes:

• Seitan roast: Season seitan with poultry herbs and oven-roast for Thanksgiving.

• Seitan cutlets: Pan-fry lightly breaded cutlets for a main course.

• Seitan wings: Coat bites in buffalo sauce for tangy appetizers.

3. Tempeh

This fermented soy food has an earthy flavor and hearty bite. Crumbled tempeh mimics ground meat in chilis, tacos and more. For Thanksgiving, slice a log into cutlets and roast or fry until crisp.

4. Mushrooms

The rich, umami taste of mushrooms satisfies. Bread or stuff large portobellos, or shred creminis into fillings. Sauté shiitakes and serve over rice or roasted veggies.

5. Lentils and Beans

Beans and lentils make budget-friendly, protein-packed substitutes for meat. Use them in vegetable pot pies, casseroles, meatless meatballs and other veggie mains.

6. Nut Roasts

Savory nut-based roasts encase mushrooms, grains, beans and vegetables in a turkey-like entrée. Find them premade or prepare your own recipe.

7. Root Vegetables

Potatoes, squash, parsnips, turnips, rutabagas, sweet potatoes and beets are fall superstars. Roast them whole, halved or cubed for a colorful, healthy Thanksgiving centerpiece.

8. Jackfruit

Green jackfruit has a stringy texture similar to pulled meat or turkey. Sauté young jackfruit in bbq sauce for plant-based shredded brisket or pulled pork.

9. Cauliflower

Roast a whole head for a stunning main course. Cut in steaks or chop florets to stand in for turkey in pot pies, tacos and other recipes.

10. Eggplant

Meaty eggplant is perfect for vegetarian holiday meals. Try eggplant involtini, moussaka or parmesan eggplant cutlets.

Now that you know the best options, it’s time to start planning your vegetarian Thanksgiving menu!

Cooking Tips for Vegetarian Turkey Substitutes

Preparing plant-based mains takes some different techniques than roasting turkey. Follow these tips for cooking success:

• Marinate tofu, tempeh or seitan before baking to infuse flavor.

• Bread and bake tofu or tempeh cutlets for a crispy coating.

• Sauté mushrooms, lentils and veggies like cauliflower before adding to dishes.

• Roast root veggies and squash whole or in chunks drizzled with oil and spices.

• Use broths and sauces to keep meat substitutes tender and moist.

• Let seitan, bean and veggie roasts rest after cooking, just like meat roasts.

With the right preparation, your holiday meal will impress guests and leave everyone satisfied. Now, what are you waiting for? It’s time to feast!

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes with Turkey Substitutes

Here are some of my favorite holiday recipes to showcase meatless mains:

Savory Mushroom and Lentil Roast – Walnuts, pecans and lentils create a hearty roast.

Maple Dijon Tofu Roast – Tofurky gets a maple-mustard twist for Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Seitan Roast – Homemade seitan roast with whole berry sauce.

Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Tacos – Spicy, crunchy veggie tacos.

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells – Jumbo pasta shells with pumpkin tempeh filling.

Caramelized Onion and Bean Pot Pies – Flaky homemade crust stuffed with white beans.

Eggplant Parmesan Stacks – Layered roasted eggplant, cheese and marinara sauce.

Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Shallots – Made vegetarian with mushroom broth.

Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes – Fluffy sweet potato halves filled with pecans.

Roasted Autumn Vegetables – Fall’s best produce tossed with fresh herbs.

Wild Rice Stuffing – Toasted wild rice with pecans, cranberries and sage.

Apple Cranberry Crisp – Old-fashioned fruit dessert with oats and brown sugar.

With mouthwatering sides and a show-stopping turkey substitute main, your vegetarian Thanksgiving dinner will be a huge hit. Give tradition a fresh twist this year with meatless options that everyone at the table will love.