How many times have you attended a not exclusively vegan party only to hear: “We have pizza, we have sausage rolls, we have chocolate… oh and I bought you some baby carrots, I hope that’s ok.”
For years vegans have heard this phrase, or at least multiple versions of it, at birthday parties. Sometimes, being a vegan means getting stuck with boring or nonexistent choices at parties. It does not have to be like this.
To get you started, this is a step-by-step guide on how to throw a vegan party. A plan that will erase all preconceived perceptions of veganism, and that will mean no awkward, “sorry I can’t eat that” conversations. Easy recipes are a good starting point!
Nibbles
Veggie platter, guacamole and hummus
Carrots, celery, and cucumber – all of these vegetables make incredible finger food. And with the magic of dips like hummus and guacamole, your guests will forget they even thought vegetables could be boring.
To make the hummus:
- One can of chickpeas, drained
- Place these in a bowl with olive oil, two tablespoons of tahini and a pinch of salt
- Take a food processor and blend the ingredients until you achieve a creamy rich texture and then squeeze in some lemon juice to finish
To make the guacamole:
- For this you will need two medium-sized avocados and an onion, both peeled and diced
- Place these in a bowl with olive oil, lime juice and a pinch of salt
- As avocados are more delicate, it is strongly advised to use a fork to achieve optimal creaminess
Jackfruit mini-wraps
Jackfruit is renowned for being the best plant-based version of pulled pork out there. Its meaty texture and neutral flavour means it makes the perfect filling for wraps and tacos. Fry a can of this in a shallow pan with onions, spices, and a can of chopped tomatoes, and challenge your friends at guessing what hides inside your tortilla wraps. Vegan party food with a game!
Sweet potato wedges
Chop 500g of sweet potatoes into bite-size pieces and spread them out on a baking tray. Drizzle them in olive oil and spices or herbs of your choice. Leave them on to cook until their flesh turns soft and serve them with any of your homemade dips.
Popcorn
This is available in most supermarkets. Provided you do not select products with meat or dairy flavourings, this is a cheap and easy snack that everyone from vegans to meat-eaters can enjoy.
Liquid courage
Vegan White Russian
A Russian, vegan co-worker decided that vegans ought to have the chance to get to try it out too. Thus was born the vegan white Russian – a simple mix of coffee liqueur, vodka and oat milk. A simple but distinct beverage, this cocktail will wow your party guests.
Selected wines
The technical aspects behind this alcoholic beverage means a lot of it is actually animal-derived. However, with the progress of modern day technology, more and more companies understand that wine doesn’t have to be made in this way anymore and this means your party can be fully catered without relying on animals.
The big finale
Sweet potato and coconut brownie
Once you steam 500g of sweet potatoes, you can use this as the ideal base for any rich and buttery cake – and by mixing in dark chocolate, shredded coconut and flour, your guests will be begging you to make this recipe a staple at every one of their almost vegan party events too.
