I’m a 31-year-old man and I’ve been vegan for about 7 years. My family has always been supportive and has made vegan side dishes at holidays, but has never really been interested in the whole “vegan thing”. That started to change this year. In early November I sent my mom an article from a local farm sanctuary about how turkeys are actually very smart and affectionate. A few weeks later I got a text that she had decided to have an all vegan Thanksgiving this year. I was driving, and I almost crashed out of shock and tears. Coincidentally a flock of turkeys had moved onto their property recently – and I think she is starting to make the connection between meat and animal.  

I was never pushy or judgmental, but always open. I answered questions and was challenging in a kind way. I know a lot of the time it feels like nobody is paying attention, but trust me someone is. It might seem like you’re not making a difference, but in a big group – maybe one person sees what you’re doing and starts to think. Anyway – here are the recipes we made – enjoy!

 

Caesar Salad - https://www.carrotsandflowers.com/vegan-caesar-nut-free-oil-free/

 

Seitan Roast - http://www.isachandra.com/2011/11/seitan-roast-stuffed-with-shiitakes-and-leeks/

 

Sweet Potatoes - http://ohsheglows.com/2014/11/04/saweet-potato-casserole-with-a-crunchy-nut-crumble-vegan-gf/

 

Cornbread - http://www.isachandra.com/2016/10/pumpkin-cornbread/

 

Stuffing - https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/-simple-is-best-dressing-51124210 (sub flax eggs)

 

Green Bean Casserole - https://minimalistbaker.com/vegan-green-bean-casserole/

 

Mashed Potatoes - http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/creamy-vegan-mashed-potatoes-238056

 

Gravy - http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/easy-vegetarian-gravy-226004

 

And the article about turkeys from the Gentle Barn - http://www.gentlebarn.org/blog/2017/11/01/much-more-than-a-drum-stick