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Finding Alternative Foods to Eat at Christmas Time

Finding alternative foods to eat at Christmas time

Canadian festive food traditions are renowned for their delectable flavors and we all have our favorites. But there are plenty of reasons why you might be looking for alternative foods to eat at Christmas time. Whether you’ve recently embraced a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, are aiming for a healthier diet, or have specific food sensitivities, there are delicious recipes to explore. Here, we delve into some beloved Canadian Christmas dishes, suggest alternative options, and discuss how a food intolerance test can enhance your holiday season. Plus we also discuss finding alternative foods to eat at Christmas time.

Turkey

While turkey remains a classic centrepiece for meat-eaters during Christmas dinners, there are plenty of other options for those with different dietary preferences. Consider ham glazed with maple syrup or honey for a sweet twist. For vegetarians or vegans, roasted butternut squash, stuffed pumpkins or meat-free poutine with mushroom gravy can offer delightful alternatives and are bursting with nutrients and flavour.

Mashed Potatoes

Fluffy mashed potatoes are a real crowd-pleaser and easily adapted to suit various diets. Swap butter and milk for vegan-friendly or dairy-free substitutes if you’re lactose intolerant. Plant-based butter works wonders, and adding roasted garlic, salt, and black pepper really elevates the flavours of the dish. If you’re not a fan of potatoes, try mashed parsnips or mashed cauliflower as tasty alternatives. Sweet potato mash is also delicious and a good choice if you want to boost your vitamin A intake and regulate any potential spikes in your blood sugar levels.

Nanaimo Bars

A no-bake delight, Nanaimo bars are a cherished Canadian tradition. Its three layers of crumbly wafer and coconuts, rich buttercream, and chocolate ganache make it a festive favourite, but that doesn’t mean that its ingredients will always align with your diet. If you’re looking for some alternative foods to eat at Christmas time and need dessert inspiration, consider dishes like Bûche de Noël (yule log) or butter tarts. Tweak tart fillings with popular options like nuts, caramels, or lots of chocolate chips.

Christmas Tourtiere

This French-Canadian meat pie often served on December 24th, might not cater to everyone’s diet or taste buds. Herbivores can enjoy a tofu-based alternative with mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Dairy-free butter and plant-based milk can be used, and they are easily adapted for those with a gluten intolerance. Serve it with sweet potato mash, corn salad, or seasonal roasted sprouts.

Mulled Wine

A holiday favourite, Canadian mulled wine is a warm, aromatic treat. For a non-alcoholic version, swap red wine for pomegranate or cranberry juice. Experiment with different fruits like blueberries, blackberries, or grapefruit to customize the sweetness. If you’re not a fan of traditional orange peel, try various fruit combinations for a personalized holiday drink.

Contact Canada Food Intolerance for a healthy holiday

If you regularly experience symptoms, such as bloating, headaches or stomach ache, consider taking a food intolerance test or finding alternative foods to eat. This will help you identify any specific ingredients that cause discomfort so you can tailor your holiday menu and find alternative foods to eat at Christmas time. Visit our website or email [email protected] for more information about our intolerance tests. Make this holiday season truly enjoyable by catering to your individual needs.