#vegan holiday appetizers

[hle24]

Vegan Christmas Pinwheel Appetizer: A Beautiful and Tasty Holiday Treat

Every year as Christmas approaches, I love finding new ways to add a bit of festive flair to the food I serve at family gatherings and holiday parties. One of the appetizers that never fails to impress is my Vegan Christmas Pinwheel Appetizer, made with puff pastry and arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it’s also a showstopper on the table—my…

[simplybeautifuleating]

Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus

Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus

I just want to start by saying one thing about this recipe. THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST DIPS I HAVE EVER MADE. Okay. I said it and just to be clear I never just have one thing to say so let’s move on. Here’s what went down the first time I served it during the past holdiay season. Yes, I am still working on my holiday posts. Better late than never. My daughter-in-law was over visiting and I gave her…

[witchyfashion]

Get your goth on with 60+ recipes from Beetle House restaurant, where guests indulge in a deadly delicious menu inspired by the works of Tim Burton and all things dark and curious.

If you delight in ghoulish frights and movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, Beetlejuice, and The Evil Dead; then you’ll love the official cookbook of Beetle House, the Halloween-inspired restaurant with locations in New York and Los Angeles.

The Nightmare Before Dinner features more than 60 gothically delicious recipes from chef-owner Zach Neil, including sauces and dips for the recently deceased, eerie appetizers, sinister sides, soups and salads for the living, macabre mains, devilish desserts, deadly drinks, and creepy cocktails. Knock out your family, friends, and guests with:

Beetle Pie, inspired by Beetlejuice – a brilliant-green homemade pistachio pudding with a crunchy chocolate crust that evokes the corpse-fed grass and rich soil of a graveyard, and seedy and sweet blackberry jam that mimics the texture of blood and bugs

Silence of the Lamb Chops, inspired by Silence of the Lambs – a tasty lamb dish with a buttery mushroom and apple sauce, made gory with splashes of raspberry glaze

Cheshire Mac and Cheese, inspired by Alice in Wonderland – a sweet-and-spicy take on one of America’s beloved comfort foods, served in a teacup

Edward Burger Hands, inspired by Edward Scissorhands – a juicy burger with a Sriracha cream sauce, stuffed with smoked bacon, fried egg, pepper jack cheese, and avocado; with a pair of scissors shoved through it to keep it closed

The Fleet Street Martini, inspired by Sweeney Todd – a bright-red martini featuring Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey; pair with equally gory Love It Pot Pie

Plus, if you’re vegan or vegetarian, The Nightmare Before Dinner has your spooky side covered too—it offers a vegan alternative or ingredient swap for each and every recipe in the book!

Throw your own goth-themed party! A bonus section provides inspiration for table settings, decorations, and foods to serve at your holiday or screening party.

This is the perfect cookbook for the Tim Burton movie buff, Halloween enthusiast, or goth in your life.

Also available by Zach Neil: Death for Dinner Cookbook: 60 Gorey-Good, Plant-Based Drinks, Meals, and Munchies Inspired by Your Favorite Horror Films

buy here

[mariacallous]

Sambusak are a popular treat throughout the Middle East. Their history is long — they have been enjoyed since the Persian Babylonian Empire and their name comes from the Persian word sanbosag, which means “beautiful triangle.”

These turnover pastries, similar to hand pies, are stuffed with a variety of fillings, from ground lamb, beef and chicken to spinach, feta cheese and even sweet almond and walnut. Sambusak are the ancient ancestors of similar pastries like Indian samosas, Latin American empanadas, Italian calzones and Israeli bourekas. Food historian Gil Marks stated that chickpea sambusak have been part of the Jewish Babylonian menu since the 1300s, and served for Shabbat lunches and holidays like Shavuot, Hanukkah and Purim. 

Sambusak bel tawa (chickpea turnovers) are a classic of the Jewish Iraqi kitchen. My Iraqi grandmother served them as an hors d’ouevres whenever she was hosting guests, for gatherings large or small. Still served in Iraqi homes around the Diaspora, chickpea sambusak are especially popular in Israel. They have a delicious complexity of flavor, thanks to the earthy savoriness of cumin and curry powder, a historical testament to the way Indian spices impacted the Jewish cuisine of Iraq. The spiced, nutty, buttery chickpeas and sweet caramelized onions contrast perfectly with the crisp, pillowy dough. 

Of course, all this deliciousness is matched by the many steps involved in making the sambusak. The chickpeas need to be soaked overnight, mashed and seasoned (though you can use canned in a pinch). The onions need to be fried. The dough needs to be kneaded and allowed to rise. The turnovers need to be formed and then fried. A lot of work but truly justified when the results are this spectacular  — plus, they’re packed full of protein, fiber and antioxidants.

We eat these vegan, deep-fried bites of heaven as a snack, appetizer or as a light meal with a salad. 

Notes: 

Sambusak (fried or not fried) freeze beautifully in airtight packaging. Just thaw them before frying or reheating.

Fresh sambusak can be stored in the refrigerator and then reheated in a low oven. 

[morethansalad]

Vegan Holiday Appetizer Board with Roasted Nuts

[askwhatsforlunch]

Cuisine de Provence

If you want to add a generous bit of sunshine to your meals, then I suggest trying your hand at la Cuisine de Provence. Fragrant with herbs like thyme, rosemary or basil, colourful with fresh vegetables, these recipes celebrate the fish and seafood of the French Riviera and the quality meat of l'arrière-pays! As I am spending a week's holiday in Provence, I intend to enjoy everything la Côte d'Azur has to offer, from bathing in the Mediterranean Sea to the delicious gastronomy! Try these recipes, if you want to follow me!

Drinks

Pastis  

Limoncello Spritz 

Lavender Liqueur 

Appetizers

Poutargue

Rouille 

Anchoïade 

Parmesan Aïoli 

Green Olive Tapenade

Aïoli 

Baguettes 

Roasted Garlic, Thyme, Olive and Tomato Plait

Entrées

Garden Pistou Soup (Vegan)

Salade Niçoise 

Provençal Roasted Chicken 

Meat

Provençal Burger 

Niçoise Stuffed Zucchini

Fish

Prawn Pasta à la Marseillaise 

Anchovy Stuffed Courgettes 

Rosemary Roasted Tuna 

Brandade de Morue (Codfish Potato Bake) 

Sage and Lemon Sardines 

Red Mullet and Aubergine Burgers 

Rosemary and Basil Sardines 

Roasted Sardines

Sides

Poêlée Provençale (Sautéed Aubergines and Peppers) 

Tian (Vegan)

Tomatoes Provençal

Ratatouille

Savoury Pies and Tarts

Tourte aux Blettes

Condiments

Herbes de Provence 

Desserts

Lavender Apricot Tart 

Peach and Apricot Charlotte

Ice Cream

Lavender Ice Cream 

Lavender Apricot Sorbet (Vegan)

Lavender Apricot Ice Cream Cups

[veganfood8424]

Vegan Mashed Potato Balls

If you're searching for a crowd-pleasing vegan appetizer or side dish that's simple, delicious, and full of comforting flavors, these Vegan Mashed Potato Balls are exactly what you need! Made with pantry staples like potatoes, corn starch, and fresh dill, these golden-baked potato balls are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a fun snack, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Not only are these mashed potato balls easy to make, but they're also baked, making them a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to perfect this recipe! Why You Will Love This Vegan Mashed Potato Balls Recipe - Simple Ingredients: These mashed potato balls require just a handful of basic, plant-based ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. - Healthy and Light: Unlike fried options, these are baked with a touch of olive oil, making them light yet satisfying. - Customizable: You can easily add your favorite spices, herbs, or even a filling for a fun twist. - Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a holiday appetizer, a side dish for dinner, or a snack for kids, these potato balls fit the bill. - Vegan and Gluten-Free: Made without any animal products or gluten, they’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Ingredient Notes

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this recipe so special: - Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold. They provide the best texture for mashing and shaping into balls. Boiling them whole helps retain their natural flavor and starch. - Corn Starch: This acts as a binding agent, keeping the mashed potato balls together. It also contributes to the crispy exterior when baked. - Fresh Dill: Adds a burst of freshness and earthy flavor. You can substitute it with parsley or chives if you prefer. - Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the potatoes. - Olive Oil: Used both in the potato mixture and for brushing the balls before baking, ensuring a golden and slightly crispy finish. Recipe Tips for Perfect Vegan Mashed Potato Balls - Boil the Potatoes Whole: Boiling whole, peeled potatoes retains their starch, resulting in a fluffier mash. Make sure to test for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart. - Cool the Potatoes Slightly: Let the boiled potatoes cool before mashing to avoid excess moisture, which can make the mixture too sticky. - Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Taste the mixture before shaping to ensure the flavor is spot-on.

- Shape with Wet Hands: To prevent the potato mixture from sticking to your hands, dampen them slightly before rolling the balls.

- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil Brushing: Brushing the balls with olive oil ensures they bake to a beautiful golden-brown color and develop a slightly crispy exterior.

- Turn Halfway Through Baking: Flip the balls halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Vegan Serving Suggestions and Pairings These Vegan Mashed Potato Balls are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes: - Dipping Sauces: Serve with vegan sour cream, hummus, or a tangy tahini dressing for dipping. - As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables, a hearty vegan stew, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. - On a Party Platter: Include them on a platter with other vegan finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, vegan spring rolls, or crispy tofu bites. - Toppings: Sprinkle with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor. Storing Instructions for Vegan Mashed Potato Balls - Refrigerator: Store leftover mashed potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezer: You can freeze the balls before or after baking. To freeze uncooked balls, place them on a tray and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. For cooked balls, let them cool completely before freezing. - Reheating: Reheat baked balls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes. If frozen, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Mashed Potato Balls - Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a vibrant color. Keep in mind the texture may be softer, so you might need to add a bit more corn starch. - Can I make these mashed potato balls ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare the mixture and shape the balls in advance, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. - What can I use instead of corn starch? Potato starch or tapioca starch work well as substitutes. - How do I make the balls crispier? For extra crispiness, you can roll the balls in breadcrumbs before baking. - Can I fry these instead of baking? Yes, they can be shallow-fried or deep-fried for a crispier texture. However, baking is a healthier option.

Essential Equipment To make these Vegan Mashed Potato Balls, you’ll need the following tools: - Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes. - Mixing Bowl: To mash and mix the ingredients. - Potato Masher: For smooth and creamy mashed potatoes. - Baking Sheet: A lined baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup. - Brush: For coating the balls with olive oil. - Spatula or Tongs: To flip the balls halfway through baking.

These Vegan Mashed Potato Balls are a delightful combination of crispy and creamy textures, perfect for any occasion. With their simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavor, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your vegan repertoire. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re guaranteed to impress vegans and non-vegans alike! We’d love to hear from you! Did you try these Vegan Mashed Potato Balls? What dipping sauces or sides did you pair them with? Share your experience and any creative variations in the comments below. Don’t forget to rate the recipe if you loved it. Happy cooking! More Potato Recipes to Try: - Potato Leek Soup - Easy Smashed Potatoes - Perfect Vegan Potato Salad - Crispy Roasted Potatoes - Perfect Baked Potato Read the full article

[appetizeme]

[sakuradesigns]

Vegan Patè with Cognac and Port Wine

Vegan Patè with Cognac and Port Wine We just celebrated a holiday and had friends over for dinner, and we made all kinds of complex main courses, but this Vegan Patè with Cognac and Port Wine was the star of the show. In fact, my husband said if we serve this before the dinner, no one’s going to want to eat anything else! This is one of the most flavorful and healthiest appetizers possible, and…

[rabbitcruiser]

National Mousse Day

National Mousse Day is celebrated on November 30 every year, and we can’t wait to whip up some lovey-dovey sweetness for our near and dear ones. If you’re fond of decadent desserts, you should definitely get the most out of this food holiday. Did you know that the word ‘mousse’ is derived from French? In Old French, it means ‘froth’ or ‘foam’. As the name suggests, this appetizer is made by beating egg whites and cream until they turn light and fluffy like foam. Although it is more popularly served as a dessert, mousse can also be prepared as a savory. Depending on the type of mousse, its consistency can vary from thick and creamy to light and airy. Originally prepared in France, mousse found its way into the United States only in the late 19th century. And aren’t we all glad that it did?

History of National Mousse Day

When someone says ‘mousse’, don’t you often imagine it as a chocolaty delight? We know — almost always! Surprisingly, mousse was first concocted as a savory dish in 18th century France. It was only in the latter half of the 19th century that fruit mousses became a thing. The French would add whipped cream into fruit, coffee, or liqueurs, or pour the cream on top in the shape of a pyramid. They called this ‘crème en mousse,’ which means ‘cream in a foam’. Present-day recipes of mousse have branched out from this bygone tradition. If you are not a fan of whipped cream, you may consider replacing it with some viciously whisked egg whites.

The most popular version of mousse today, chocolate mousse, wasn’t always so popular. In fact, it really got into the public eye in the U.S. in the 1930s. This was the time when chocolate pudding was being introduced into American food culture. You could say that the chocolate mousse drew its inspiration from pudding.

Mousses are ideally served cold, while sweet mousses are sometimes served frozen. The best thing about mousse is that it conveniently lends itself to both savory and sweet recipes. From a thick salmon mousse as a starter to smooth raspberry mousse or the classic chocolate mousse for dessert, there is practically no limit to the flavors that a mousse can embrace. Whereas it also works as a filling in pastries and parfaits, a savory mousse goes well with cheese and fruit platters, turning them into good-looking appetizers.

In many restaurants today, savory mousses are prepared using foie gras, shellfish, avocado, poultry, vegetables, cheese, and other ingredients. Commonly dished out as a light entrée or an appetizer, mousses are often stabilized by adding gelatin to them.

National Mousse Day timeline

1892 The Mousse is Documented

The first-ever documented record of chocolate mousse comes from a Food Exposition held at Madison Square Garden, N.Y.C.

1897 First Recipe Appears in Print

The Boston Daily Globe publishes one of the first recipes for chocolate mousse, in its  'Housekeeper’s Column.'

Late 19th century Fruit Desserts Make an Entry

The first sweet mousses make their entry into America, and they are fruit mousses topped with whipped cream.

1930s Mousse Introduced

Chocolate pudding — the predecessor of chocolate mousse — is introduced into American food culture.

National Mousse Day FAQs

Is there a separate holiday to celebrate chocolate mousse?

Yes! While National Mousse day celebrates all kinds of mousses, we have a day designated only for chocolate mousse. We celebrate it on April 3.

Is vegan mousse a thing?

Very much. With a lot of people turning vegan, restaurants are trying to incorporate vegan mousses into their menus. Some of the commonly known substitutes for whipped egg whites are avocados, cashew nut paste, and chickpea brine.

What are some of the best places to try mousse in New York?

While there are innumerable places in New York that serve mousse, the best ones include Veniero’s Pasticceria & Caffe in East Village, Ferrara Bakery on 195 Grand St., Carlo’s Bake Shop on 625 8th Ave, and Dulce Vida Latin Bistro on 1219 Lexington Ave.

National Mousse Day Activities

Try a new mousse recipe

Go out for a moussey dinner

Shout out on social media

National Mousse Day is the perfect occasion to try your hands at baking, and whip up a unique mousse recipe. We place our bets on salted caramel mousse, pumpkin mousse, and blue cheese mousse. Go on, let your friends and family oooh with your baking skills!

On a food holiday, what could be a better way of celebrating it than going out for a sumptuous dinner with your loved ones? We’d suggest you opt for a mousse parlor and try out interesting mousse dishes.

This National Mousse Day, raise a toast to the makers of mousse, for bringing this delicious treat into our lives. Create an appreciation post on social media to let the world know of this amazing food holiday.

5 Important Facts About Mousse

Thanks to electric mixers

What a fish!

Largest mousse in the world

Why foamy?

Hot or cold?

The invention of electric mixers led to the widespread popularity of mousse — it is assumed that the first mixer with an electric motor was invented by Rufus Eastman in 1885.

Fish mousse, paired with bread and butter, used to be a much sought-after meal in America — although it has lost its popularity in recent times, fish mousse is still served as a party dip, by esteemed mousse aficionados.

Aventura Mall in Miami set a  Guinness World Record for the largest chocolate mousse, by preparing a mousse weighing about 496 pounds.

Eggs and cream when beaten to perfection form air bubbles that give mousse its light and airy texture.

Mousse can be frozen to make ice cream, as well as served hot.

Why We Love National Mousse Day

A divine dish

Versatile

Meetups and hangouts

Isn’t it wonderful to have a day designated to appreciate the beauty of mousse? You can’t deny that a scoop of creamy mousse has the power to brighten an otherwise mundane day.  And we absolutely love that about mousse!

Whether you’re craving a dessert or a savory appetizer, mousse can always bend itself to suit your taste buds. Basically, it can make everyone happy.

Mousse Day gives us the opportunity to invite our friends over for a bake-over (like a sleepover) and hang out with them at our favorite dessert parlor. Isn’t that lovely?

Source

[witchyfashion]

Get your goth on with 60+ recipes from Beetle House restaurant, where guests indulge in a deadly delicious menu inspired by the works of Tim Burton and all things dark and curious.

If you delight in ghoulish frights and movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, Beetlejuice, and The Evil Dead; then you’ll love the official cookbook of Beetle House, the Halloween-inspired restaurant with locations in New York and Los Angeles.

The Nightmare Before Dinner features more than 60 gothically delicious recipes from chef-owner Zach Neil, including sauces and dips for the recently deceased, eerie appetizers, sinister sides, soups and salads for the living, macabre mains, devilish desserts, deadly drinks, and creepy cocktails. Knock out your family, friends, and guests with:

Beetle Pie, inspired by Beetlejuice – a brilliant-green homemade pistachio pudding with a crunchy chocolate crust that evokes the corpse-fed grass and rich soil of a graveyard, and seedy and sweet blackberry jam that mimics the texture of blood and bugs

Silence of the Lamb Chops, inspired by Silence of the Lambs – a tasty lamb dish with a buttery mushroom and apple sauce, made gory with splashes of raspberry glaze

Cheshire Mac and Cheese, inspired by Alice in Wonderland – a sweet-and-spicy take on one of America’s beloved comfort foods, served in a teacup

Edward Burger Hands, inspired by Edward Scissorhands – a juicy burger with a Sriracha cream sauce, stuffed with smoked bacon, fried egg, pepper jack cheese, and avocado; with a pair of scissors shoved through it to keep it closed

The Fleet Street Martini, inspired by Sweeney Todd – a bright-red martini featuring Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey; pair with equally gory Love It Pot Pie

Plus, if you’re vegan or vegetarian, The Nightmare Before Dinner has your spooky side covered too—it offers a vegan alternative or ingredient swap for each and every recipe in the book!

Throw your own goth-themed party! A bonus section provides inspiration for table settings, decorations, and foods to serve at your holiday or screening party.

This is the perfect cookbook for the Tim Burton movie buff, Halloween enthusiast, or goth in your life.

https://amzn.to/4dmhfEm

[mariacallous]

Sambusak are a popular treat throughout the Middle East. Their history is long — they have been enjoyed since the Persian Babylonian Empire and their name comes from the Persian word sanbosag, which means “beautiful triangle.”

These turnover pastries, similar to hand pies, are stuffed with a variety of fillings, from ground lamb, beef and chicken to spinach, feta cheese and even sweet almond and walnut. Sambusak are the ancient ancestors of similar pastries like Indian samosas, Latin American empanadas, Italian calzones and Israeli bourekas. Food historian Gil Marks stated that chickpea sambusak have been part of the Jewish Babylonian menu since the 1300s, and served for Shabbat lunches and holidays like Shavuot, Hanukkah and Purim. 

Sambusak bel tawa (chickpea turnovers) are a classic of the Jewish Iraqi kitchen. My Iraqi grandmother served them as an hors d’ouevres whenever she was hosting guests, for gatherings large or small. Still served in Iraqi homes around the Diaspora, chickpea sambusak are especially popular in Israel. They have a delicious complexity of flavor, thanks to the earthy savoriness of cumin and curry powder, a historical testament to the way Indian spices impacted the Jewish cuisine of Iraq. The spiced, nutty, buttery chickpeas and sweet caramelized onions contrast perfectly with the crisp, pillowy dough. 

Of course, all this deliciousness is matched by the many steps involved in making the sambusak. The chickpeas need to be soaked overnight, mashed and seasoned (though you can use canned in a pinch). The onions need to be fried. The dough needs to be kneaded and allowed to rise. The turnovers need to be formed and then fried. A lot of work but truly justified when the results are this spectacular  — plus, they’re packed full of protein, fiber and antioxidants.

We eat these vegan, deep-fried bites of heaven as a snack, appetizer or as a light meal with a salad. 

Cooking notes: Sambusak (fried or not fried) freeze beautifully in airtight packaging. Just thaw them before frying or reheating. Fresh sambusak can be stored in the refrigerator and then reheated in a low oven. 

[reetasharma201]

Celebrate a Delicious & Sustainable Holiday with Veganstore’s Top Picks!

The holiday season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to spread cheer, warmth, and—why not?—some delectable plant-based goodies! Whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or looking to treat yourself, Veganstore has carefully curated a range of ethical, eco-friendly, and delicious vegan treats that are ideal for any holiday occasion. From satisfying snacks to rich spreads and unique gift options, Veganstore makes holiday shopping easy for those who want to embrace cruelty-free and sustainable products.

Why Choose Veganstore for Holiday Gifts?

Veganstore goes beyond offering delicious plant-based products. Our commitment is to sustainability, quality, and wellness, all while maintaining a 100% cruelty-free standard. Every product at Veganstore is thoughtfully selected to deliver the best flavors, nutrition, and ethical goodness.

Here’s what makes Veganstore the ideal destination for your holiday shopping:

Diverse Selection: From snacks and spreads to pantry essentials, we’ve got something for everyone.

Trusted Brands: We feature only the best brands known for quality and taste.

Health-Conscious Products: All our products are vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free, meeting the highest standards for a balanced diet.

Veganstore’s Holiday Picks: Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

If you’re ready to explore our best offerings, here’s a sneak peek at some of the top choices that will make the perfect gift or addition to your holiday festivities:

Nothing Naughty Vegan Protein Bars – Caramel & Ginger Flavors

These protein-packed bars come in delightful caramel and ginger flavors, making them a perfect snack for busy days or post-holiday workout recovery. With no added nasties, they’re a wholesome, tasty treat for anyone on your list.

Bennetto Dark Chocolate Snackpac

A rich, indulgent dark chocolate that’s 100% vegan and ethically sourced. This chocolate snack pac is perfect for dessert lovers who want a guilt-free indulgence. A beautiful addition to any holiday gift box!

Amaze Balls (Twin Pack) – Vanilla Flavor

These bite-sized, flavor-packed treats are as fun as they are nutritious. With a delightful vanilla flavor, Amaze Balls are great for anyone with a sweet tooth or as a little treat in a stocking stuffer.

Incafe Fiesta Coffee (Ground)

Cozy up this season with the aromatic delight of Incafe Fiesta Coffee. Perfect for the coffee lover in your life, this ground coffee delivers a rich, bold flavor that will warm up any chilly morning.

Ceres Organic Brown Rice Crackers & Chickpea Crisps

Light and crunchy, these organic crackers are ideal for holiday appetizers or paired with one of our vegan spreads. They’re a versatile, gluten-free snack everyone can enjoy!

Be Nourished Organic Sauerkraut – Plain & Beetroot Flavors

Sauerkraut may not be a traditional holiday item, but its health benefits make it a must-have! Full of live cultures, Be Nourished Organic Sauerkraut is great for digestion, perfect for post-feast detoxing, and adds a zesty twist to any meal.

Ceres Pukka Tea Day to Night Blend

For those who love cozying up with a warm beverage, this tea blend is a beautiful gift choice. With a soothing selection that’s ideal from morning to night, it’s a lovely, thoughtful addition to any gift basket.

Vutter Plant-Based Butter – Avocado & Plain Flavors

Vutter’s vegan butter offers all the creaminess of traditional butter with a plant-based twist. Perfect for spreading on toast or using in holiday recipes, this is an essential kitchen item for any vegan.

Savour Cashew Cheese – Cumin, Chipotle & Ash Flavors

The holidays aren’t complete without a cheese platter, and our plant-based Savour Cashew Cheese is the star of any vegan spread. With unique flavors like cumin, chipotle, and ash, it’s a fantastic dairy-free option for entertaining guests.

Holiday Tips: Building the Perfect Vegan Gift Box

Creating your own custom gift box from Veganstore is easy and fun! Here’s a quick guide to curating a thoughtful, delightful box for anyone in your life:

Choose a Snack Base: Start with a mix of savory and sweet snacks, like our vegan protein bars, chocolate, and crackers. It’s a perfect way to add variety to the box.

Add a Warm Beverage: Include the Incafe Fiesta Coffee or Ceres Pukka Tea for a comforting treat that pairs well with any holiday morning or afternoon relaxation time.

Top It Off with a Spread: Add a jar of Be Nourished Sauerkraut or a pack of Savour Cashew Cheese to make your gift box truly gourmet.

Personalize It: Add a holiday card with a heartfelt message or a personalized note to make the gift extra special.

A Vegan Holiday Celebration Awaits!

With the holiday season quickly approaching, now is the time to explore Veganstore’s delightful selection of plant-based goodies. Whether you’re building the perfect gift box or looking for holiday pantry essentials, our range of vegan, eco-conscious products has you covered.

Give a gift that’s both tasty and meaningful this season—one that celebrates wellness, ethics, and love for the planet. Browse Veganstore today for the best vegan holiday gifts!

[savingtipsforyou]

Thanksgiving Grocery Essentials: What to Buy

Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and enjoying a delicious meal. Planning the perfect feast requires organization, preparation, and, most importantly, a well-thought-out shopping list. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving or are a seasoned pro, this guide will help you shop efficiently and ensure you don’t miss a thing.

From appetizers to desserts, every dish plays a crucial role in creating a memorable Thanksgiving experience. Below is the ultimate shopping list broken down into categories to simplify your preparations.

1. The Star of the Show: The Turkey

No Thanksgiving table is complete without a turkey. Here’s what to consider:

Fresh or Frozen Turkey: Choose based on your preference and the number of guests. A fresh turkey is quicker to prepare, but a frozen one offers more flexibility.

Turkey Alternatives:

Ham

Vegan substitutes like Tofurky or Field Roast

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to order your turkey in advance, especially if you want a fresh one!

2. Stuffing and Gravy

Stuffing adds heartiness to the turkey, while gravy ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need:

Stuffing Ingredients:

Pre-packaged stuffing mix or bread cubes

Onions, celery, herbs (like sage and thyme)

Gravy: You can buy it premade or use turkey drippings to make it from scratch.

3. Essential Side Dishes

The sides are just as important as the main course. Add these crowd-pleasers to your shopping list:

Mashed Potatoes: Potatoes, butter, milk/cream

Sweet Potatoes: For a sweet potato casserole or candied sweet potatoes

Green Beans: Perfect for a casserole or sautéed dish

Corn: Fresh corn, cornbread mix, or canned corn for pudding

Brussels Sprouts: Roast them with balsamic vinegar for a crispy treat

4. Cranberry Sauce

This sweet and tart side perfectly balances the savory flavors of the meal. Options include:

Canned Cranberry Sauce (for convenience)

Fresh Cranberries and Sugar (if you prefer homemade)

5. Appetizers and Snacks

Keep your guests happy with light snacks before the main course. Here are a few ideas:

Cheese and crackers

Charcuterie board

Deviled eggs

Vegetable platter with dip

Stuffed mushrooms

6. Desserts: The Grand Finale

A Thanksgiving meal isn’t complete without desserts. Stock up on these classics:

Pumpkin Pie: A must-have with whipped cream

Pecan Pie: Rich and nutty

Apple Pie: Perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Other Options: Cheesecakes, sweet potato pie, or chocolate desserts

7. Beverages

Make sure you have plenty of drinks for your guests:

Wine: Red or white, depending on your menu

Sparkling water and juices

Mulled Wine or Cider: A festive addition

8. Tableware and Decor

Create a warm and festive atmosphere with the right decor. Don’t forget:

Tablecloths, Placemats, and Napkins

Candles and Centerpieces: Pumpkins, gourds, or floral arrangements

Serving Platters and Utensils: Make sure you have large serving spoons, gravy boats, and extra plates

Adding a Creative Twist

If you want to put a unique spin on your Thanksgiving celebration, consider adding some international flair to your menu. For example:

Maple-Glazed Turkey wrapped in bacon

Paella as a side dish for a Spanish touch

Albondigas (Spanish meatballs) and croquettes as appetizers

Thanksgiving Shopping Tips and Deals

Here are some tips to make your Thanksgiving shopping stress-free:

Plan Ahead: Create your shopping list early to avoid last-minute runs.

Take Advantage of Sales: Many stores, including Amazon, El Corte Inglés, and MediaMarkt, offer discounts during Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

Buy in Bulk: Staples like potatoes, onions, and butter often come at a better price when bought in bulk.

Final Thoughts

With The Ultimate Thanksgiving Shopping List, you’ll be fully prepared to host a festive, stress-free holiday. Planning ahead, organizing your list, and shopping smart will allow you to focus on what really matters—spending quality time with loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy every moment of your delicious feast!