This Tofu Turkey is the best vegan and gluten-free holiday roast! It’s hearty, cozy, and full of juicy flavor. All you need is 10 plant-based ingredients.
This post is sponsored by Nasoya. This Tofu Turkey makes the perfect centerpiece at any holiday dinner. It’s made with an outer “meaty” portion that has a browned crust and chewy bite, and is stuffed with a cozy, savory stuffing filling. You won’t believe it’s made without seitan and just 10 affordable ingredients.
Is There a Vegan Turkey? Your Guide to Plant-Based Holiday Roasts
The holidays are a time for tradition, togetherness, and treasured recipes passed down through generations. For many families, the centerpiece of these festive meals is a juicy, roasted turkey. However, more people are opting for plant-based eating and looking for vegan turkey alternatives to grace their holiday tables. Luckily, there are now many impressive options for those wanting a cruelty-free holiday feast.
Why Choose a Vegan Turkey?
There are several motivations for choosing a plant-based main dish
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Animal Welfare – Poultry farming operations often subject turkeys to unsanitary, stressful conditions Opting for a vegan turkey spares lives and prevents animal suffering
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Sustainability – Animal agriculture strains natural resources. Replacing turkey with a plant-based alternative reduces your eco-footprint.
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Health – Plant foods are free of cholesterol and rich in antioxidants and fiber. Going vegan reduces heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risks.
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Inclusiveness – Having a vegan entrée makes your table welcoming to family or guests avoiding meat.
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Curiosity – Plant-based meats have come a long way. Many mimic the taste and texture of turkey impressively well.
The Best Store-Bought Vegan Turkeys
You’ll be pleased with the variety of convenient vegan turkey roasts on supermarket shelves. Here are some top options:
Tofurky Roast ($10-14 per lb) – Tofurky has been making plant-based holiday roasts since 1995. Their classic roast features a savory blend of wheat gluten and tofu with wild rice stuffing.
Gardein Savory Stuffed Turk’y ($8-13 per pkg) – These convenient single-serve roasts are stuffed with a sage and apple blend. They take only 25 minutes to cook from frozen.
Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast ($6-13 per lb) – This elegantly presented roast enrobes mushroom, potato, and wheat protein loaf in a flaky filo pastry with hazelnut and cranberry dressing.
Trader Joe’s Turkey-less Stuffed Roast ($13 per pkg) – Get this festive roast filled with wild rice, cranberries, and vegetables exclusively at Trader Joe’s stores.
Quorn Turk’y Roast ($6 per pkg) – New in 2022, this mycoprotein and pea protein-based roast replicates turkey flavor and texture exceptionally well.
Recipes for Homemade Vegan Turkeys
Not finding a store-bought vegan turkey you love? Making one from scratch allows customizing flavors to your taste. Here are recipes to try:
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The Gentle Chef’s Holiday Roast – This wheat gluten-based seitan roast is stuffed with wild rice, vegetables, and apples for incredible texture and flavor.
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Zesty Jackfruit Roast from The First Mess – Shredded jackfruit makes remarkably convincing pulled “meat” when spiced and roasted just right.
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Ultimate Vegan Roast from Bosh – A showstopper made from layers of pea protein, mushrooms, and vegan stuffing wrapped in vegan bacon.
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Lentil Walnut Apple Loaf from Cadry’s Kitchen – A nutritious, protein-packed spin using lentils, walnuts, and apples for a meaty, satisfying roast.
How to Cook Your Vegan Turkey
Cooking your plant-based roast is easy. Follow package instructions for convenience options. Make sure frozen roasts are fully thawed before baking home-prepped versions. Vegetarian stuffed roasts generally take 60-90 minutes at 350°F. Unstuffed roasts and loaf shapes bake in about 45-75 minutes.
Let your vegan turkey rest 10 minutes before slicing. Accompany it with all your favorite sides and gravies. A plant-based feast makes the holidays memorable for the right reasons – kindness, family, and celebration!
The Bottom Line
You no longer have to settle for dull vegetable side dishes or awkwardly skip the main course on holidays. With the variety of convenient supermarket finds and easy DIY options, creating a crave-worthy plant-based turkey is totally doable.
Give vegan turkey a try this season – your taste buds, health, and conscience will thank you! Honor time-honored traditions of togetherness while starting new customs that reflect your values and nurture our planet. The holidays are sweeter when no one – whether human or animal – is harmed in the making of your merriment.
A Homemade Holiday Roast
Not everyone has access to the store-bought holiday roasts, which is why I wanted to make this homemade tofu turkey. Not only is it entirely vegan and gluten-free (no seitan!), but it’s also made with easily accessible ingredients, many of which you may already have on hand. And if you’re wondering if this recipe is really worth the effort, don’t worry! The prep only takes about 15 minutes, with the oven doing the remainder of the work for you. It’s the perfect plant-based main to share with friends and family at holiday get-togethers and is so delicious alongside all of the beloved holiday sides (think Butternut Squash Soup, Sweet Potato Casserole, Green Bean Casserole, and Cranberry Sauce!).
Ingredients for Tofu Turkey
As promised, this recipe is made with just 10 simple ingredients. Here are the 4 main components:
- Nasoya Extra-Firm Tofu: is simply the best, in my opinion. Nasoya’s Extra-Firm Tofu has the ideal consistency for making vegan meat replacements and will give this tofu turkey just the right amount of hearty texture. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, organic, and non-gmo. Click here to find Nasoya in grocery stores near you.
- Chickpea flour: helps bring more density and “meaty” texture. It also acts as a binder (no eggs needed!) and helps to keep everything together and uniform.
- “Turkey” flavor: Made with a mixture of tamari, tomato paste, garlic, poultry seasoning (yes, this is naturally vegan!), vegan chicken-flavoured Bouillon, neutral oil, and a baste of balsamic vinegar. This brings all the tasty holiday “turkey” flavor, no animal-based ingredients necessary.
- Stuffing: Anything goes here – you can use a traditional stuffing like this Stovetop Stuffing or this Vegan Mushroom Stuffing, Fall Roasted Vegetables, or make it stuffing-free! If you do choose not to stuff the “turkey,” simply transfer all of the tofu mixture into the loaf pan and bake it for a slighter shorter second bake – it will cook faster than if it was stuffed.
Is Vegan Turkey Worth the Money? (Taste Test)
FAQ
What is vegan turkey made of?
- Vital wheat gluten: This is the main ingredient, creating a meaty texture when combined with liquid and seasonings.
- Tofu: Adds protein and a creamy texture.
- Soy protein isolate: Another plant-based protein source
- Spices and seasonings: Used to enhance flavor and mimic the taste of turkey.
Does tofu turkey taste like turkey?
I was very impressed with the way this turned out. I served it for Thanksgiving to 9 meat eaters and EVERYONE said it tasted like turkey! I couldn’t believe it. I have been vegetarian for 10 years, so tasting like turkey wasn’t really the goal.
What is the vegan equivalent to turkey?
- Burmese Tofu (aka Chickpea Flour Tofu) …
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower With Turmeric-Tahini Sauce & Pistachios. …
- Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie With Parsnip & Potato Mash. …
- Vegetarian Mapo Tofu. …
- Sweet Potato & Chickpea Cakes. …
- Vegan Lasagna With Roasted Vegetables. …
- Zucchini Verde Enchiladas. …
- Nutty Veggie Burgers.
Is there a plant-based ground turkey?
Ozo Plant Based Turkey Ground – 12 OZ. Taste the good in life.
Should you eat vegan Turkey?
The health and ethical benefits of vegan turkey aren’t the only reason to leave animals off your plate. There’s a sustainability advantage, too. Animal agriculture is one of the biggest contributors to the climate crisis.
Can one have turkey and carrots?
Eating turkey and carrots is part of healthy habits. The turkey has meat like chicken and is another healthy poultry option. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, it is a source of vitamin A, fiber, potassium and vitamin B3.
Does vegetarian plus make a vegan whole turkey?
But, although I’ve never seen it, I’ve heard Vegetarian Plus makes a Vegan Whole Turkey as well. I loved two things about this roast. First: the cranberry glaze that comes with it. It’s a nice change from including a gravy, like all the other vegan roasts. Second: the texture.
What is a vegan Turkey made of?
This homemade vegan turkey is made from a combination of white beans and a blend of spices, such as onion powder, poultry seasoning, and garlic. It is held together by vital wheat gluten. Is vegan turkey healthy?
What can I eat with a vegan Turkey?
Enjoy this vegan turkey with other holiday favorites like mashed potatoes, vegan gravy, vegan stuffing, vegan squash risotto, vegan cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and creamy pumpkin bean soup, make the best vegan pumpkin pie for dessert! Can I make the tofurky gluten-free?
What is a vegan turkey substitute?
The roast is stuffed with a wild rice and breadcrumb stuffing, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. TOFURKY Roast is known for its meaty texture and hearty taste, making it one of the most popular choice for turkey substitutes. Those who want a classic vegan turkey alternative with a meaty texture and rich flavor.