Whether you are vegan or not, I’m gonna guess you like eating tasty food?! You don’t need to be of a certain dietary persuasion to enjoy some delicious plant-based dishes. At Christmas, for many, the meat is the main event, but actually it’s usually the trimmings that really ‘make’ the meal. We all put in extra effort to make the potatoes and veg that little bit extra special, right?! So, a book like Katy Beskow’s Easy Vegan Christmas should not be limited to those of us who prefer a plant-based diet, as you’ll find some wonderful recipes for making the sides, starters and sweet treats super.
I am a vegetarian, so for me, this kind of book is, of course, particularly useful as I hunt for ideas for the main part of our meal, too. I have a few of Katy’s books already, so I was drawn to this latest title from her as I know I like her recipes and they are usually kept uncomplicated, which is top of my priority list when it comes to cooking!
There are 80 recipes in the book and they are split into: Starters and Nibbles, The Main Event, Sides, Gravy and Sauces, Leftovers, Drinks and Festive Bakes and Treats… so Katy literally covers every elements of your Christmas – not just the big day! For me, anything bread-based or pastry-based are a win, so the above two jumped out at me – and let’s face it, who doesn’t love a dough ball (especially the kids!) and it’s a cute touch to arrange them like a Christmas tree! 
In the mains, you can choose from more traditional dishes such as a mushroom wellington, but Katy also shares some more unusual, yet equally as tasty ideas, such as crispy gnocchi with creamy kale, white wine and mushrooms or brown sugar and spice tofu with split pea puree… and there’s plenty of classic (with a twist) sauces to add too. 
If you are vegan (or you have any vegan guests), then there should be consideration over the pudding, as many non-vegan recipes will contain dairy. Again Katy has some indulgent ideas both for the big day, or just for enjoying over the festive period. The above panna cotta feels like a bit of a showstopper as it’s so pretty and I love the cute little marshmallows that look a bit like mini yule logs!
And not forgetting how to use up those leftovers on the days following Christmas. This Boxing Day balti is a great way to use up your root vegetables, and you can even add a bit of cranberry sauce for a gentle fruity flavour like mango chutney.
I’m off to start marking pages and meal planning, so if you fancy getting your hands on a copy of this little Christmas recipe gem too, you’ll find it here.
Easy Vegan Christmas by Katy Beskow (Quadrille, £22), Photography © Luke Albert
