When we think of Christmas, we have turkey and cold meats, cakes rich in dairy, and the cheeseboard. There doesn’t seem to be anything here for those that have chosen a vegan diet. Once quite a niche choice, a vegan diet is now accepted as the ideal choice for our environment and health.

With a well-planned vegan diet, you can reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressures and reduce your chances of getting diabetes and some types of cancer. You also contribute to a movement towards plant-based eating, which aids the planet’s recovery rather than adding to the problems we already face.

Even though there is much virtue in a vegan Christmas, there is no need to sacrifice the luxury and deliciousness of the yuletide foodie festivities. Let’s dive into the delights that the Melted Inside community has to offer for our vegan menu this Christmas.

The Starter

At the beginning of all good Christmas dinners comes the soup. There is nothing that says Christmas more than the humble parsnip. If you want to elevate your experience, try Bay’s Kitchen Parsnip and Rosemary Soup for starters. It is a hearty soup filled with the creamy taste of parsnip with coconut and offset with rosemary. Not only is this a vegan-friendly dish, but also a low FODMAP food, meaning it will be gentle on your visitor’s stomachs.

The main

You may have made an ethical choice to move away from turkey and trimmings, but you are likely still expecting full flavour this Christmas. Ravioli Peas and Shallot are square-shaped pasta parcels filled with sauteed green peas and shallots. Best served with a simple tomato sauce, these are wonderful parcels to deliver as a gift this Christmas dinner.

The dessert

As it is Christmas, you have our permission to start with the cake if your heart desires. Cru8 Raw Keto Brownies are amazing with chunks of walnut throughout.  They're super healthy and for a perfect sin-free sweet choice this Christmas - delicious?  You'll want to eat the whole pack!

The cheeseboard

There is no need to miss out on the cheeseboard when you are vegan. Bath Culture House offer a set of four vegan culture cheese selection, which can be offered as a gift or served at the end of your Christmas meal. Made with simple processes, the tastes are spectacular and offer a virtuous boost to your health.

Wine and Truffles

And if you are still in the game for more, it is time for that decadent moment. With a box of Luisa's Vegan Chocolates - Mixed Artisan Chocolate Truffles and your bottle of Tinston Alchemy English Sparkling Wine, you can enjoy your Christmas evening with family and friends in luxury. This English made sparkling wine is aged over 18 month on the lees in bottles, there is a lot of character to this tipple! The truffles come in a gift box filled to the brim with 12 vegan chocolate truffles, with ganaches, hearts and filled chocolates.

Now, you are full to the brim with delight; there is only one thing left to say, have a Happy Vegan Christmas and let’s raise a glass and say cheers!