The most wonderful time of year is almost upon us – but many vegetarians find themselves wondering whether they will find a tasty treat at the Christmas dinner table. All too often, we associate the festive feast with glistening turkeys, pigs in blankets, and a mountain of meat-based dishes – but the good news is that this doesn’t have to be the case.
The popularity of the vegetarian dinner party is on the rise, and we have put together the top five tips to ensure the plant-based participants at your party have plenty to enjoy, and a dinner to remember!
• Keep an eye out for ‘hidden’ animal products
If you’ve never previously organised a dinner party with vegan or vegetarian guests in mind, it’s worth reminding yourself what such guests actually eat. Vegans, for instance, avoid all animal products, practising an entirely plant-based diet – so that means no dairy, eggs, or honey.
When you are shopping for food products for the dinner party, be sure to carefully check the labels for any mention of animal products that may be far from obvious at first glance.
• Don’t forget the wine
A common mistake that many meat-eating guests make is to create an irresistible veggie or vegan spread, only to forget to double-check the wine! Many wines use animal products in their development and creation and are therefore unsuitable for vegan guests. Do a little research, so that you can keep your guests happy and hydrated.
• Arrange for a vegan cheese platter
Meat spreads are such a Christmas party ‘standard’, but you won’t want to risk your vegan and vegetarian guests going hungry. That’s why it could be a great idea to make liberal use of vegan cheeses when putting on your next dinner party where plant-based attendees will be present.
• Remember the gravy
Gravy is a key part of the Christmas dinner – but it is often not veggie or vegan-friendly. With a little homework, you can whip up a tasty gravy that all your guests can enjoy.
• Don’t overlook the sides
Avoid the temptation to smother your roasties in goose fat, or to simply rely on pigs in blankets for your sides – remember to include an array of sides that all your guests can enjoy.
Final thoughts
Christmas is a time to kick back, relax and enjoy some tasty treats, and with our top tips, you can ensure that all your guests leave happy and satisfied.
And if you would appreciate some further – and specialised – help with putting on a vegan or vegetarian dinner party that will be remembered for all the right reasons, please don’t hesitate to reach out today to the team at Caiger& Co.