Updated October 8, 2019. | Happy Canadian Thanksgiving! That’s right, America isn’t the only nation to celebrate this feasting holiday. Thanksgiving
in Canada is held on the second Monday of October every year, and while its origins differ from the American event, many of its traditions and values are similar. No matter in what country you celebrate, Thanksgiving is all about family, friends, compassion, and gratitude, all culminating with a grand feast. Break out the brussels sprouts and save the turkey; these vegan Thanksgiving recipes are definitely something to be thankful for.
9 Vegan Canadian Thanksgiving Recipes
1. Maple-Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
After decades of bad jokes and grimacing, Brussels sprouts have finally come back in to favor. Roast them or thinly slice and serve them raw — just don’t steam them to death. That’s what got these veggies their bad reputation in the first place. This hearty salad is a great side dish, but it could also be a stand-alone meal (hello, leftovers). Brussels sprouts are back, baby!
Find the recipe here.
2. Vegan Roasted-Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Isn’t it the worst when you reach for the mashed potatoes only to discover that the cook put butter or cream in them? Let the vegan dish be vegan! No need for dairy in this recipe; these spuds are luxuriously creamy and flavorful thanks to the generous amount of roasted garlic mashed in. Everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Find the recipe here.
3. Vegan Mushroom Gravy
What’s a plate full of mashed potatoes without gravy? This vegan gravy is creamy and rich in savory flavor made with mushrooms and vegan butter. Alright, who’re we kidding? Gravy doesn’t only go with mashed potatoes — it goes with everything.
Find the recipe here.
4. Vegan Maple Cornbread
Every feast should be accompanied by a bread basket, but for Thanksgiving, no basic baguette will do. Sop up that mushroom gravy with a slightly sweet, deliciously crumbly square of thick cornbread. There’s also an option to make this recipe gluten-free, so everyone at the table can enjoy.
Find the recipe here.
5. Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole
Oh, the green bean casserole. It’s a staple yet so often poorly executed or drowning in canned cream of mushroom soup. In this recipe, you can actually taste the green beans and mushrooms, along with the creamy and deeply flavored sauce made from cashews, spices, and white wine. When that potluck sign up sheet comes around, put your name down for this obligatory veggie side, and you’ll have the entire party clamoring to get the recipe.
Find the recipe here.
6. Cauliflower Gratin
A creamy, spicy gratin without a trace of dairy. This vegan cauliflower gratin is packed with flavor thanks to onion, garlic, chile peppers, and fresh thyme, oregano, and sage. It’s cooked with dark, leafy greens in a decadently dairy-free sauce made from cashews. A crispy breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch.
Find the recipe here.
7. Vegan Turkey
You can definitely have turkey as a vegan, it just happens to be cruelty-free and made from seitan. This recipe even replicates the crispy skin that so many people seem to fight over at the carving station. Impress all of your guests with this gorgeous, succulent vegan roulade. No one will miss the bird.
Find the recipe here.
8. Vegan Pumpkin Pie
Still searching for the perfect plant-based version of the classic pumpkin pie? This is it. It’s not made of nuts or cashews; it’s the real deal. Buttery, flaky crust. Creamy, slightly spiced filling. Overall pumpkin pie bliss.
Find the recipe here.
9. Maple Pecan Pie
Because two pies are better than one! No need to choose between pumpkin or pecan; it’s Thanksgiving after all. Have a sliver of each, and make sure both are dolloped with vegan whipped cream.
Find the recipe here.