Have Dietary Restrictions? Here are Some Thanksgiving-Friendly Alternatives
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Thanksgiving is just a few days away, and all anyone can think about is what food options will be available when they find their seat at the table. The options are endless, with every family cooking up their own original combination of dishes.
However, what if you have dietary restrictions? Can you still participate in the feast of the year?
Many University of Maryland students fall into this category, but there are more options than you might think. Here are some of their alternatives to traditional Thanksgiving foods that you can try if you have dietary restrictions.
The most obvious problem for those with vegan or vegetarian diets is the one that sits in the middle of the table – the turkey. Though those that do not eat meat may not be able to devour the traditional turkey, an alternative exists that can give them the feel and taste of it.
Senior Katie Sullivan’s family buys her a Tofurky veggie roast - it’s a turkey meat replacement. The alternative contains tofu or seitan along with wheat, all of which are entirely plant-based.
“It’s seasoned very well and really flavorful, and even has a grain stuffing in the middle,” Sullivan said.
In addition to turkey, the Tofurky brand offers a plant-based alternative to other Thanksgiving favorites, including gravy and ham roast, allowing those with dietary restrictions to get to enjoy the taste of Thanksgiving staples.
Of course, Thanksgiving is not just about the turkey. Every family whips together their own original combination of side dishes to spice up the entire meal. Similarly, for those with dietary restrictions, there are plenty of alternative options available for Thanksgiving side dishes.
A substitute for mashed potatoes that sophomore Hailey Chaikin’s family prepares is mashed cauliflower. This contributes another plant-based alternative for a Thanksgiving classic.
Senior Faith Ensor’s family prepares a variety of vegan-based side dishes, including Brussel sprouts with maple, sriracha or balsamic glazes and sauerkraut sausage and apples, giving the table sweet, spicy and salty options.
Junior Manuela Lopez Restrepo’s family prepares vegan mac and cheese and vegan butter to go with sweet potatoes. Sophomore Ashley Nestasi’s family adds their own assortment of healthy vegetable fixings, including carrot and ginger soup, beet salad with toasted almonds, arugula, asian pear and crispy shallots.
There are also plenty of dessert options. Lopez Restrepo’s favorite Thanksgiving dessert is vegan ice cream, and Ensor’s family prepares prepares fresh fruit dessert with whipped cream, cinnamon and warm apples.
So, this Thanksgiving, if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns before your Thanksgiving meal is prepared, do not worry. Many alternative options are available to add to your Thanksgiving lineup, and, while they might not be the traditional options, they will still come together to create a delicious Thanksgiving feast.
Happy Thanksgiving!
