The Great Debate: How to Harmonise your Roast with Vegetarian Options
The festive season often brings to mind a beautifully browned turkey taking centre stage on the dining table. But what if you have guests who are vegetarian? How do you keep the peace and create a menu that suits everyone? The answer lies in harmonising your roast with vegetarian options.
Firstly, let’s tackle the elephant in the room – yes, it is entirely possible to have a vegetarian at Christmas while roasting a turkey. It’s all about balance and ensuring everyone feels included. Here are a few pointers on how to achieve this delicate balance.
The key to saving time and ensuring everyone enjoys a delicious meal is to focus on dishes that can be shared by everyone. Think about side dishes that are vegetarian-friendly but also compliment your roast turkey. Root vegetables, for instance, are versatile and can be prepared in many ways – roasted with herbs, mashed, or even turned into a hearty soup. These are dishes that everyone, irrespective of their dietary preferences, can enjoy.
When planning your menu, keep in mind the flavours that will complement your roast. A sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, for instance, pairs beautifully with turkey and can also be served with vegetarian dishes. Keep your vegetarian guests in mind when you’re seasoning your vegetables – using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, for instance.
Next, consider adding some vegetarian ‘main’ dishes to your spread. These should be something a little special, not just an afterthought. A show-stopping stuffed pumpkin or a hearty nut roast can make your vegetarian guests feel just as cherished as those tucking into the turkey.
For your side dishes, think hearty and flavourful grains. A warm barley or quinoa salad packed with dried fruits and nuts adds a delightful texture contrast and a hint of sweetness that complements the savoury notes of your roast perfectly.
But what about the gravy, you ask? A vegetarian gravy made with a robust vegetable broth and a splash of red wine will pair beautifully with both your roast and your vegetarian dishes. And let’s not forget a delicious meat-free stuffing. Choose a recipe bursting with aromatic herbs and dried fruits, a surefire way to keep both vegetarian and meat eaters reaching for seconds.
Remember, convenience is key. Many vegetarian dishes can be prepared ahead of time and reheated on the day, allowing you to focus on your roast. This will save you time and reduce stress on the day.
In essence, the key is to create a menu that keeps both vegetarian and meat eaters happy. It’s not about making two separate meals but rather creating a harmonious spread that caters to everyone’s needs.
With a little thought and planning, you can ensure that your festive feast is one that everyone will remember – for all the right reasons.
Sources:
How to Cater for Vegetarians This Christmas”, BBC Good Food, https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/how-cater-vegetarians-christmas 2. “How to Make a Vegan Christmas Dinner”, The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/dec/09/vegan-christmas-dinner-recipes-yotam-ottolenghi
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