VegOut Holiday Issue 2022

Holiday

The

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Actress

Issue

Torrey DeVitto’s Cruelty-Free Lifestyle

Merry Mocktails!

Bring the holiday cheer with these non-alcoholic drinks

Plus:

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DISPLAY UNTIL JAN 2, 2023

Gift Guides Galore, Festive Holiday Roasts, Store-Bought Eggnogs, Winter Fashion, Seasonal Recipes, & Much More!

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS 06

Founder’s Letter

07

Meet the Team

08

Contributors

18

10

Pinky Cole on Building the Slutty Vegan Empire, Embracing Non-Vegans, and Empowering the Black Community This powerhouse entrepreneur shows no sign of slowing down! We spoke with Pinky Cole to learn more about her journey to success.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Actress Torrey DeVitto’s Cruelty-Free Lifestyle We caught up with the talented plant-based actress to learn more about her favorite vegan snacks, beauty products, and more.

14

In the News The scoop on the latest restaurant openings and product launches.

16

12 Cozy Holiday Gifts to Give From socks to slippers and more, we’ve got what you need for everyone on your list!

ON THE COVER:

HOLIDAY MOCKTAILS PHOTOGRAPHED BY KIMBERLY TRAN

20

6 Plant-Based Roasts Perfect for Your Holiday Meal We’re rounding up the best roasts this holiday season!

22

5 Easy Ways to Practice Gratitude Use these techniques to bring more gratefulness into your life.

24

Where to Find Vegan Tamales for the Holidays Enjoy nostalgic favorites without compromising culture.

27

Q&A with Dr. Brooke Goldner Board-certified physician Dr. Brooke Goldner specializes in autoimmune disease reversal through plantbased nutrition.

28

24 Hours in Miami Make the most of your 24 hours in the vegan capital of South Florida!

31

Vegans on the Street We spoke with readers from across the country to hear how they handle holiday dinners with non-vegan family and friends.

32

10 Store-Bought Vegan Eggnogs to Enjoy This Holiday Season Temperatures are dropping and holiday nogs are lining grocery shelves.

34

10 Ethical Vegan Chocolate Gifts Treat your gift recipient to the ultimate chocolate experience!

36

Holiday Recipes Get cooking with author and blogger Lauren Toyota!

40

Products We Love Peep the latest and greatest vegan products!

46

This Queer-Owned Vegan Donut Shop Is Putting Seattle on the Vegan Food Map Entrepreneurs Sean Willis and Christopher Ballard are taking the Seattle food scene by storm.

48

Sustainable Winter Apparel Essentials We’ve got your winter look covered with these sustainable coats, boots, sweaters, and more.

50

Best Zero-Waste Gifts for Every Zodiac Sign From wandering Sag to home-loving Cancer, here are the zero-waste gifts they’ll adore.

42

52

Zero-Waste Beauty Gifts to Give (or Get) This Year From reusable cotton rounds to compostable makeup tools, we’re highlighting the best eco-friendly gift ideas this holiday season.

54

4 Trader Joe’s Grocery Hauls From holiday favorites to storebrand mainstays, the aisles of this American grocery are where you need to be this season!

58

What We’re Reading, Listening to, and Watching These books, movies, and podcasts are perfect for winter break.

8 Non-Alcoholic Spirits to Enjoy This Holiday Season Cheers responsibly with these non-alcoholic beverages.

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LETTER FROM THE FOUNDER

y p p a H ! s y a d i l o H

B

Born and raised in the Midwest, I have fond memories of driving around looking at Christmas lights, sipping hot cocoa in front of the fire with my siblings, and picking out the perfect tree from the local tree farm. And although I now live in Los Angeles (and the holidays aren’t quite the same without the snow), this time of year continues to stir up feelings of nostalgia—blasting Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” on repeat, shopping for all the seasonal plant-based items at Trader Joe’s, and drinking as many pumpkin spice lattes as I can before they’re discontinued for the season (and before the barista starts to recognize me).

In this issue, we’ve rounded up all things holiday—from store-bought vegan eggnogs (page 32) and festive roasts (page 20) to the best spots for seasonal tamales (page 24). You’ll also find gift guides galore (pages 16, 34, and 52)! And for the perfect dish-to-pass recipes from author and blogger Lauren Toyota, check out page 36.

In addition, this issue is jam-packed with interviews. We sit down with vegan entrepreneur and powerhouse Pinky Cole (page 18) to learn more about her success in building the Slutty Vegan empire. Get a behind-the-scenes look into plant-based actress Torrey DeVitto’s cruelty-free lifestyle on page 10. And learn more about autoimmune disease reversal from Dr. Brooke Goldner (page 27).

So, whether you’re in the chilly Midwest or sunny California, grab your favorite festive beverage, sit back, and enjoy the read!

Maggie Ortlieb, Founder (she/her) @maggieeortlieb

6 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

Meet the Team MANAGING EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

DESIGNER

(she/her) @TAMMIEORTLIEB

(she/her) @KILLAXKIM

(he/him) @JERRYMANDERNG

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

(she/her) @VEGCENTRICDIETITIAN

(she/they) @CAYLA__WHITE

STAFF WRITER

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

(she/her) @LAVEGANAENOJONA

(she/her) @VICKMITCH

(she/her) @ROCKYMOUNTAINDREAMIN

Tammie Ortlieb

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR & STAFF WRITER

Allie Mitchell (she/her) @ALLIEMITCH

Alejandra Tolley

Kimberly Tran

Anja Grommons

Victoria Mitchell

Jerry Ng

Cayla White

Laurie Chin Sayres

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 7

s r o t u b i r t n Co LAUREN TOYOTA

JARED CROSS

@laurentoyota author of two bestselling cookbooks—Vegan Comfort Classics: 101 Recipes to Feed Your Face and hot for food all day. She’s been named one of Canada’s Most Influential Vegans (Impact Magazine) and has appeared on many national television programs sharing her expertise for making vegan food fast and fun. Lauren’s YouTube channel, Instagram, and website have amassed millions of views and devoted fans.

MELISSA NOWAKOWSKI

(she/her) Rebecca lives in

(she/her) Melissa has been

@veggiesabroad

@crossjared

(she/her) Lauren is the

REBECCA GADE SAWICKI

(he/him) Jared’s passion for

travel and culture are fueled by his upbringing near the Mexican-American border in San Diego. He is in constant pursuit of ways to reduce his carbon footprint, and dreams of owning a cocktail bar.

Metro Detroit and is the creator of the vegan travel blog Veggies Abroad. Born of her love for travel and the curiosity of others about her plant-based lifestyle, the blog addresses the question, “What in the world did you eat?” When she isn’t checking out new vegan hot spots, you can find her strategizing ways to amplify the voices of vegan businesses and nonprofits in an effort to build a kinder world.

@extra.vegan

vegan since 2017 and is a self-proclaimed pizza and donut enthusiast. A public relations executive by day, you can find her supporting animal rescues, traveling, and scouring New York City for the next great vegan food and beauty finds.

B ec a u se Eve ry St ep Matte rs @grounded.people groundedpeople.com

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Torrey DeVitto’s Cruelty-Free Lifestyle

by Allie Mitchell 10 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

Photo courtesy of Manfred Baumann

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Actress

Photo courtesy of Ryan West

If you’ve tuned into Chicago Med, Vampire Diaries, One Tree Hill, or Pretty Little Liars, chances are, you’ve seen Torrey DeVitto grace the screen. The incomparable actress makes waves on TV shows and films with her acting chops, but she’s also doing amazing things behind the scenes with her activism work. Aside from advocating for women's rights, DeVitto speaks out for the animals and regularly supports organizations such as PETA and The Humane Society of the United States. She practices alternative medicine, veganism, and holistic wellness. DeVitto’s plant-based lifestyle extends from her plate to the clothes she wears and the beauty products she uses.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at actress Torrey DeVitto’s crueltyfree lifestyle.

VegOut (VO): How long have you been vegan? What first inspired your transition?

Torrey DeVitto (TD): I have been inbetween vegan and vegetarianism for the last 13 years. I was inspired toward vegetarianism at first by my love for animals. I realized early in my 20s that I wanted to live a cruelty-free life. I understood why at certain points in time, or in certain locations, the use of animal skin and animal meat for food worked—but living in a modern world with endless possibilities, I didn’t believe that eating meat was necessary anymore and wanted to give that up to live in alignment with my morals and beliefs.

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 11

VO: What kind of food do you eat on set? Are there good vegan options or is that something you have to specifically request?

TD: I normally have to specifically request vegan options, but I have started to notice that it is becoming the norm to have those options around. I normally ask for good vegan protein bars, salads, yogurts, or anything vegan. I'm not very picky—so as long as it's vegan, I'll most likely eat it!

VO: Have you ever been asked to eat or drink something that wasn’t vegan on camera? How did you respond?

TD: Yes, all the time. But as I already mentioned, and luckily for me, there are so many options now. I just did a film where I had to eat pancakes and a bunch of different casseroles. [The crew] was able to use vegan meat and vegan products to make all those food items look like meat.

I am always so grateful when production is willing to do that extra work for me because eating meat, even for a role, is not an option.

VO: It seems like there are more and more actors and celebrities going vegan. Have you noticed an increase in herbivores on the sets you’ve worked on?

TD: I have noticed that more people are going the vegetarian/vegan route—or at least trying it out! I'd still say it's a 70/30 vibe on most sets—maybe even 80/20. We still have some work to do.

VO: Let’s talk fashion! What are your favorite cruelty-free clothing and accessory brands? What are some of your staple garments?

TD: I love finding new cruelty-free and sustainable brands to support. I mostly live in dresses and cute jackets.

12 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

Some of my staples are Christy Dawn dresses, Immaculate Vegan faux leather jackets, and Stella McCartney sneakers.

I also love a good vegan bag from brands like Matt & Nat and Angela Roi. This winter, [I’ll be] looking for good vegan winter jackets and winter boots. Some of my favorite brands for this gear are Save The Duck, Native Shoes, and NOIZE. VO: Why is it important to you to use allvegan beauty products? Can you walk us through your current makeup routine?

TD: To me, it is just as important what I put on my body as what I put in my body. It makes my soul feel lighter when I go throughout my day knowing that no living creature was harmed in anything I am wearing or eating. My makeup routine is pretty minimal, however my skincare routine is not! I love skin products. Elina Organics is my favorite. She has so many delicious vegan skin care products that I just absolutely love. If I am going to wear makeup, I will use a Soft Beauty blush with some eyeshadow (I like using Jane Iredale’s highlighter as my eyeshadow) and mascara by Elina Organics. And, if I'm getting really crazy, I’ll use a tinted moisturizer by Jane Iredale as well and maybe Elina Organics’ black eyeliner and a lip pencil.

VO: What advice do you have for people wanting to try a vegan lifestyle?

TD: I always tell people to go easy on themselves. I get that it can feel overwhelming [to try veganism], but just like with anything else, once you get into the groove and slowly educate yourself, the easier it gets! Don't be so hard on yourself if you mess up here and there.

Just do the best you can and be happy with the changes you did make throughout the day—and maybe try something new that's vegan the next day!

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 13

Photo courtesy of Ryan West

In the News

by Alejandra Tolley

Kevin Hart Opens New Vegan Fast-Food Restaurant

MasterChef Aired Its First Vegan Cooking Challenge In July, America's favorite cooking show ventured into the vegan scene with this new groundbreaking challenge! For the first time, MasterChef featured an entirely plant-based competition where home cooks put their culinary skills to the test. To ramp up creativity among the chefs, Chef Gordan Ramsay demonstrated his renowned vegan beet Wellington. This was followed by contestants cooking a transformative vegan dish in their signature style. The best amateur chef went home with the title of MasterChef and walked away with a $250,000 cash prize!

Beloved comedian and actor Kevin Hart enters the vegan restaurant scene with a bang! Equipped with a powerhouse team, Hart is showcasing ultimate veganized comfort favorites. These include a Delux Crispy Chick'n Sandwich and a Double Burg'r. A crunchy kale salad is also available for those seeking a whole-food option! With an impressive lineup of menu must-tries, Hart is committed to offering one-of-a-kind flavors that will attract vegans, vegetarians, and veg-curious foodies. Hart House's first location opened in Los Angeles in August of this year.

Country Crock Debuts Plant-Based Heavy Whipping Cream Gather around, vegan bakers! Country Crock reveals its new Plant Cream. The plant-based alternative is perfect for use in endless cooking and baking recipes. The new product offers an easy substitute for heavy whipping cream that will make your meals more flavorful. This baking essential is dairy-free and soy-free. In addition, it has been certified plant-based by the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA).

With 29% less saturated fat than dairy-based heavy whipping cream, it's the perfect vegan replacement. Country Crock's Plant Cream is available nationwide at Kroger grocery stores.

Live Nation to Bring More Plant-Based Food Options to Events Eating delicious vegan food at live events became easier this past summer.

Live Nation announced its investment in Everything Legendary. The Blackowned brand is one of the nation's fastest-growing plant-based meat companies. As a result of the partnership, Everything Legendary takes a featured vegan burger position at many Live Nation venues and festivals.

This includes all House of Blues restaurants! Everything Legendary closed the deal as part of its $6 million funding round in February. The best part— you don't have to attend a live event to try these mouthwatering burgers.

The company offers its products in more than 3,000 grocery stores, including Target, Ralphs, and more!

Cracker Barrel Adds Vegan Sausage to Menu Vegans will now have a seat at the interstate eatery's table! Cracker Barrel just revealed the addition of Impossible Sausage to its allday breakfast menu. This is the first vegan sausage available at the country-style chain to customize your breakfast plate. While Cracker Barrel is known for its all-you-can-eat biscuits and country-fried steak, they recognize the demand for a more inclusive menu. With this new menu addition, we're excited to see what other vegan options are to come.

Alaska Airlines Adds Vegan Meal Option to In-Flight Menu Exciting news, vegan travelers! Say goodbye to cold fruit as your only in-flight option and make room for this new, delicious vegan item.

Evergreens—a West Coast-based company that makes gourmet, freshly chopped salads—partnered with Alaska Airlines to release "The Soy Meets World" salad! This is the perfect meal accompaniment while flying.

It includes hearty ingredients such as romaine lettuce, roasted broccoli, cucumber, pickled carrots, green onion, brown rice, cashews, and fried tofu topped with a zesty chili lime dressing. For only $9.50, you can preorder this tasty salad starting 14 days before your flight and up to 20 hours before departure on your Alaska Air Mileage Plan account!

Smashburger Launches Plant-Based Milkshakes In June, plant-based dairy company Eclipse partnered with Smashburger! The two brands joined forces to offer vegan milkshakes across the US. The launch featured six new flavors, including Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Tangerine Dream, Peanut Butter, and Oreo.

These shakes were made with the signature flavor of Eclipse ice cream.

They were crafted to mimic the texture and taste of traditional dairy, which would entice vegans and non-vegans alike! In fact, during a Smashburger taste test, customers couldn’t tell the difference between the restaurant's dairy shake and the Eclipse shake. Based on the results of the limited release, Smashburger will decide on whether to make this a permanent menu item.

12 Cozy Holiday Gifts to Give

by Tammie Ortlieb

Organic Pillow Avocado $109

1

Organic Relaxed Sateen Eye Mask Coyuchi $18

They’ll love this GOTS-certified, organic kapok pillow from Avocado! Handmade in Los Angeles, it offers an oh-so-cozy sleep and comes wrapped in a machine-washable, organic quilted cotton cover.

16oz Stoneware Mug United By Blue $32

2

Los Gatos Hooded Fleece Pullover Patagonia $139

Shut out the world with the Organic Relaxed Sateen Eye Mask from Coyuchi. Choose from Pale Gray, Pale Ocean, or Chai. With its soft elastic band and 100% organic cotton construction, it makes the perfect gift for yourself as well!

Gina Sweatpants NOIZE $60

Cue up the holiday tunes and grab some marshmallows! It’s time to help them celebrate the season with a mug of hot cocoa in United By Blue’s stoneware mug.

3

Patagonia knows how to keep you warm with its Los Gatos Hooded Fleece Pullover. This superthick hooded design is made of 100% recycled polyester and fits everyone on your gift list.

4

5

Keep your shopping easy this year with a pair of Gina Sweatpants by NOIZE! They’re just right for lounging around on those long winter nights. Pair them with the brand’s Chelsi Sweatshirt for extra comfort.

Chelsi Sweatshirt NOIZE $80

6

What’s lightweight, cozy, and comes with a zipup front? The Chelsi Sweatshirt by NOIZE! This hooded sweatshirt will be their new favorite for running errands or lounging around the house.

We’re wrapping up the year with ideas for everyone on your list.

Here are 12 cozy holiday gifts to help round out your seasonal shopping.

Long Sleeve Bamboo Pajamas Cozy Earth $185

7

Give the gift of sweet dreams with these longsleeve bamboo pajamas from Cozy Earth.

Available in regular or tall, they come in a variety of colors and are just right for sleeping late on lazy winter days.

Dream Robe Girlfriend Collective $98

8

9

What’s a holiday gift-giving season without socks and underwear? For socks, check out Conscious Step! Keep their feet toasty warm this season with organic cotton in fun designs while simultaneously protecting the Arctic.

10

The ultimate in cozy, these faux fur slippers are ideal for snuggling up in front of the fire on cold winter days. Your gift recipient will love slipping into these at the end of a long evening.

Velvet Napper Bearaby Starts at $269

Girlfriend Collective’s Dream Robe is the perfect wrap at the end of a long day. A luxurious blend of Tencel and recycled cotton, it pairs nicely with fuzzy slippers, a good read, and a generous pour of chardonnay.

Socks That Protect the Arctic Conscious Step $44.95

Faux Fur Slippers Pawj $89.97

11

Whether napping or curling up with Netflix, the Velvet Napper from Bearaby is a must. This weighted blanket comes available in various weights and colors.

Personalized Astrology Candle Birthdate Co. $59.99

12

Warm their heart this season with the glow of this personalized candle. They’ll enjoy a blend of numerology, astrology, and tarot reading designed specifically for their individual date of birth.

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 17

PINKY COLE Since opening in 2018, Slutty Vegan has taken the food scene by storm! The brand’s culture is unlike any other plant-based restaurant. Pinky Cole launched Slutty Vegan out of her Atlanta apartment, selling burgers through Instagram. She gave her business and menu items catchy names that drew in customers to try the food, which they immediately fell in love with. It wasn’t long before Slutty Vegan opened a brick-and-mortar—and then another (today, there are six locations with more planned to open soon). But Cole didn’t stop there! In 2019, she founded The Pinky Cole Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping young people of color find success in entrepreneurship. Two years later, she opened Bar Vegan, an all-vegan bar in Atlanta. In November, Cole will release a vegan cookbook, Eat Plants, B*tch, and she shows no signs of slowing down! We spoke with her to learn more about her journey to success. Here’s what she had to say!

VegOut (VO): What did your journey to veganism look like?

Pinky Cole (PC): Veganism wasn't hard. I grew up as a vegetarian, so making the transition was just me opening up my consciousness about the food that I wanted to consume.

VO: We’re obsessed with Slutty Vegan! What led you to create this business—and what inspired the name?

PC: I was tired of eating a side salad from [Chick-fil-A] all the time. I realized there was a universal problem—people want to find ways to be vegan, but they don’t know how. Sex and food are the two most pleasurable experiences in life. A Slutty Vegan, in my mind, is someone who eats vegan but enjoys junk food—as long as it’s not dead. I knew the name would be a great hook to help people reimagine food. What I didn’t know was how much of an impact it would make.

VO: When was the moment you realized Slutty Vegan had popped off?

PC: In the VERY beginning. It was like a light bulb that turned on and never turned off. That's why most people think this business is an anomaly—because it's only been four years, and the business has consistently grown.

18 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

ON BUILDING THE SLUTTY VEGAN EMPIRE, EMBRACING NON-VEGANS, AND EMPOWERING THE BLACK COMMUNITY Interview by Allie Mitchell

VO: We’ve never been to a restaurant where you could order a “One Night Stand” and be called a slut by an employee as a compliment! What went into creating this fun, upbeat branding with your team?

PC: Slutty Vegan is the ultimate vibe! We want it to feel like you're at a party when you're standing in our line.

That energy is something we cherish and are absolutely planning to bring to all upcoming locations. Everyone is welcome whether they're a lifelong vegan, flexitarian, or full-on carnivore. We want regulars and first-timers (virgins!) alike to embrace Slutty Vegan! We're not here to pressure anyone to commit to a fully vegan diet; we want to show them that eating plant-based doesn't have to be boring or unappealing.

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PC: I wanted to monopolize the vegan market. If I could help people reimagine food and become vegan in ways with which they're familiar, it would be easier to make the lifestyle transition.

VO: We love what you’re doing to help build and maintain generational wealth in the Black community through your nonprofit, The Pinky Cole Foundation.

What is the importance of this organization for you?

PC: Established in May 2019, The Pinky Cole Foundation strives to empower generations of color to win financially in life and in the pursuit of their entrepreneurial dreams while building generational wealth in the Black community. I had a vision of the entrepreneurship community collaborating to encourage young people of color to battle and overcome their significant challenges and obstacles to success. By offering an example of the power of entrepreneurship, I want The Foundation to be a place for knowledge sharing and empowerment. As long as I continue to share with people and give people knowledge, advice, and resources so that they can be better, that’s a success to me. I want to see other people win.

“everyone is welcome whether they’re a lifelong vegan, flexitarian, or full-on carnivore.”

Ph

m

VO: In addition to Slutty Vegan, you opened Bar Vegan, a vegan bar in Atlanta. Why did you decide to venture into the cocktail world?

Tr an

-Pinky Cole

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 19

6 Plant-Based Roasts Perfect for Your Holiday Meal

20 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

‘Tis the season for good times, good friends, and good meals. As any vegan that’s been through the holidays knows, it can be tough being the only, or one of the only, plant-based folks at the dinner table.

While we’ve all made dinners out of sides on occasion, long gone are the days of filling a plate with cranberry sauce, green bean salad, and potatoes just to get by. So, we’re rounding up the best roasts this holiday season! You’ll find these at a number of your local grocers and favorite online marketplaces.

Eat your fill this season—and maybe convince a family member or two to join in!

By Melissa Nowakowski

Tofurky PLANT-BASED ROAST & GRAVY We’re kicking it off with a tried-andtrue classic—Tofurky! That master of deli meats that we all know and love can be located in just about every major grocery store from coast to coast. This brand has one of the best holiday roasts on the market. Reminiscent of the more popularized turkey dinner you may have grown up enjoying, this roast packs 34g of protein per serving and is loaded with flavorful wild rice and bread crumb stuffing. In just over one hour, your roast is ready to be drizzled with gravy and sliced to your liking.

Trader joe’s BREADED TURKEY-LESS STUFFED ROAST Access to the family oven is a hot commodity during the holidays. This roast is your answer! It saves on time without sacrificing flavor. Ready in less than half of the cooking time as others that made our top picks this year, the Trader Joe’s Breaded Turkey-less Stuffed Roast is ready to go in only 25 minutes.

So crank up the heat to 400°F, spritz with some spray, and each slice will be crisped to perfection.

field roast HAZELNUT & CRANBERRY ROAST A celebrated favorite for the holiday season, Field Roast offers a few entrée options. We’re loving their Hazelnut & Cranberry Roast for its sweet and savory twist, perfect for the more experimental holiday palate. With an impressive 22g of protein, this roast features hazelnuts, candied ginger, and rosemary, all inside a delicate flaky crust. Cooking this one creates a wonderful aromatic explosion for the senses that’ll have those neighbors you only see when you’re checking the mail wandering over to join the party.

gardein PLANT-BASED TURK’Y ROAST Another plant-based classic brand, Gardein continues to bring the heat in the roast category. Available at most major grocery stores nationwide, it comes flavor-packed with two types of rice, cranberries, and kale (hello, sneaky greens!). The dish will have you and the plant-curious folks at your table coming back for seconds. After a nice long cook in the oven, cover it with gravy and pile your plate with your favorite sides. A fan of those day-after-Thanksgiving sandwiches? Save a slice or two for a leftovers handheld!

365 by whole foods market MEATLESS PLANT-BASED ROAST WITH GRAVY The name may be a mouthful, but you’ll enjoy every bite of this roast from Whole Foods. Reasonably priced, easy to cook, and with six hearty servings per package, it’ll be perfect for seconds or sharing with the others who are eyeing your plate at the table. Ready in just under an hour, the package comes with a healthy serving of gravy to kick up the savory flavor factor in every bite.

Hot tip: Whole Foods carries a growing number of plant-based alternatives, so stock up on other sides and desserts on your list while you’re there!

All vegetarian VEGAN HOLIDAY TURKEY ROAST No grocery store? No problem! If you’re planning a larger gathering of plant-based foodies or want to purchase from an independent brand making moves in the plant-based food scene since the ‘90s, you’re in luck. All Vegetarian has a five-pound vegan turkey roast fit for royalty. The stuffing is made from 15 delicious and nutritious ingredients, including brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, taro, edamame, cashews, chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, king mushrooms, lotus seeds, pinto beans, carrots, and more. Yum!

5 Easy Ways to Practice Gratitude

by Tammie Ortlieb

Y

ogis swear by it, spiritual leaders sing its praises, and scientists tell us that practicing more of it can lead to a greater sense of physical and mental well-being. I’m talking about gratitude! Understanding the health benefits of this elusive concept is fine and good, but how in the name of all things vegan does one go about being more thankful?

You know by now that we’re here for you—use the following five techniques to bring more gratefulness into your life daily.

22 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

1

Play the Gratitude Game Set a timer for 60 seconds. Start the clock—now go! For the next minute, look around from where you are and name all of the things you see for which you are thankful. I’ll join you from my coffee shop writing spot—almond chai lattes, bookstores that are coffee spots, jacaranda trees and the giant windows from which to view them, fellow creatives, mosaic art, music, purple parasol displays, and twinkling lights.

Keep a Journal

2

Pick up a beautiful lined writing journal and keep it by your bed. Instead of scrolling your newsfeed in the evening, put the phone down, grab a smoothflowing pen (I suggest purple!), and record three things that happened during the day for which you are thankful.

Not only is this a great way to relive favorite memories, but psychologists have found it improves immune function and can lead to lower levels of stress and depression.

3

Send a Letter Remember old-fashioned snail mail?

Surprise someone with a gratitude letter! Think of a person you are thankful to have in your life. Pull out some pretty stationery (you have that, right?) and tell this person how they have enriched your existence. Share with them how they have contributed to the person you are, how they helped you through a difficult time, or how they have inspired you to be a better you. Don’t hold back on this one—get the tissues ready!

Make a List

4

Prefer to keep it private? No problem.

Find one of those old-school lined notebook papers (the three-hole punch kind you used to stick inside your Trapper Keeper—gel pens for the win on this one!). Number the page from 1 to 30. With no time limit and no rules, make a list of as many things you can think of for which you are grateful.

Frozen vegan burritos? Sure. Zerowaste companies fighting climate change? Absolutely. Lazy afternoons spent with your dog? Write it down!

Drop Into Your Body Ever think about the things your body does for you each day to keep you moving through your world? Drop into your body for a second and reflect on how it’s supporting you at this moment. It’s helping you read this article. It’s breathing for you. It’s digesting the lunch you just enjoyed.

Wrap your arms around yourself and give your body a hug. Thank it for being present, for loving you, and for doing the hard work.

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Where to Find

VEGAN TAMALES for the Holidays

By Alejandra Tolley A Latine holiday season isn’t complete without pan dulce, champurrado, buñuelos, arroz con leche, and the main star—tamales! We’re sharing tamales of multiple Latine styles, from Salvi and Cuban to Mexican saźon.

These vegan spots show that you can still enjoy nostalgic favorites without compromising culture.

Borreguitas

La Vegana Mexicana

The family-owned restaurant is a beloved spot for all things vegan. After transitioning to an entirely plant-based shop after 20 years in operation, their vegan tamales became a must-try menu item. This season, Borreguitas is showcasing multiple options on their holiday menu! This includes their jackfruit “pork” tamale and their innovative re-chicken tamale made with cabbage! Pre-order a dozen or half a dozen beginning December 15 with pickup on December 24.

The Orange County staple carries several vegan options year-round but features two savory flavors during the holiday season! During Christmas and New Year’s, the restaurant prepares a special-edition tamale, “Costeño,” which comes filled with black beans, roasted bell peppers, plantains, and red mole sauce and wrapped in a banana leaf. They also offer their “Agradecido” corn tamale filled with Mexican squash, poblano peppers, sweet corn, and red salsa for Thanksgiving!

Pre-orders open the week before December and close one week before Christmas Eve.

Los Angeles, CA

Vegan Cuban Cuisine Miami, FL

Vegan Cuban Cuisine is bringing authentic Cubano saźon to their tamales! This is the go-to shop for those seeking more plant-based options in the Magic City. The Miami spot uses locally grown maíz for their husks and fills them with Cubanstyle sofrito or plant-based beef. For the holidays, you can buy their tamales cooked or frozen to last you all season long!

Mark your calendars for the first week of December to preorder on time.

Vegos

Albuquerque, NM Vegos prepares their tamales with a savory, robust flavor that will leave you wanting more! They have a bold holiday lineup, so get ready to indulge. Choose between their signature red and green tamales (each filled with a blend of jackfruit, sautéed onions, and New Mexico red chile) or go with their tamales stuffed with marinated tofu strips (paired with Mexican green chile and topped with cheddar cheese). For a smokier taste, feast on their Thanksgiving option! This flavorsome tamale is crafted with house-made seitan, tofu-based Tofurky, and butternut squash, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Preorder on Vegos’ website in early November!

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Santa Ana, CA

Tacotarian

Las Vegas, NV Tactotarian offers various Mexican staples—with a vegan twist! Their smoky-flavored tamales are bringing all the trimmings to Christmas dinner. They offer three savory options this season: birria paired with their signature broth, rajas with vegan crema, and jackfruit barbacoa! Pre-orders begin after Thanksgiving with pickup on December 22 or 23.

Mama’s International Tamales Los Angeles, CA Vegan-Friendly

Mama’s International Tamales is serving up Salvistyle tamales for the holidays! They are offering a wide selection for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Some of their mouthwatering flavors include cheezy jalapeño, jackfruit verde or rojo, and chorizo con papas. To satisfy your sweet tooth this season, try their sweet-flavored tamales, including guava with cheese and sweet corn. You can place your Thanksgiving pre-orders beginning November 1 and Christmas pre-orders on December 1.

El Chito

Seattle, WA Vegan-Friendly El Chito makes Seattle a vegan tamale hot spot!

Founder and chef Marlo Aguilar prepares his savory corn husks with organic ingredients sourced from Alvarez Organic Farms in Washington. With a focus on health and tradition, Aguilar fills his tamales with nutritious ingredients like black beans, cactus, and zucchini paired with a zesty chipotle sauce. Pre-order on El Chito’s website to taste Seattle’s Mexican saźon!

Yvolina’s Tamales Chicago, IL Vegan-Friendly

This mother-daughter-owned restaurant is a gem in the Windy City! The duo ensures vegan-friendly options are available beyond the holidays—and we’re here for it! This season, the team offers earthy tamales like kale with sweet peppers paired with green mole, quinoa with lentils, and spinach with mushroom. And don’t worry about lard, as these whole-food tamales are always cooked in olive oil. You can place your order by calling their shop!

Tamale Addiction Austin, TX Vegan-Friendly

Tamale Addiction pumps out over 1,500 tamales a day! That’s right, this husband-and-wife-operated shop is a maíz machine for delicious Tejano tamales. They offer three savory holiday (and yearround!) options including spinach, mushroom, and nopalitos. Order your tamales by the dozen or mix and match! Make sure to pre-order 72 hours in advance. For pickup details, check Tamale Addiction’s website for more info.

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at: us

Q&A with

DR. BROOKE BROOK GOLDNER

BY ANJA GROMMONS What is lupus? What are the dietary recommendations for someone who has been diagnosed with this autoimmune disease?

Dr. Brooke Goldner is a board-certified physician who specializes in autoimmune disease reversal through plant-based nutrition. She is the founder of GoodbyeLupus.com, creator of the Hyper-Nourishing Protocol for Autoimmune Reversal, and author of three books: Goodbye Lupus, Goodbye Autoimmune Disease, and Green Smoothie Recipes to Kick-Start Your Health & Healing.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease.

[This means] that the part of the immune system which is responsible for attacking viruses and bacteria becomes directed at the body. Lupus can cause antibodies against any part of the body. While most people deal with rashes or kidney failure, the disease can also attack the lungs, heart, and brain.

Having lupus herself, Dr. Goldner shares a unique, personal perspective on the condition. Despite following a vegetarian diet from her teenage years, she lived with rashes, arthritis, migraines, stage four kidney failure, blood clots, and mini-strokes. In adulthood, she adopted a high-raw, whole-food diet to lose weight before getting married. Not only did this result in weight loss, but her lupus-related symptoms went away. What was once expected to be a short life with disability at the forefront transformed into one of abundance. She and her husband then formulated a protocol to help others heal. Now she works with thousands of people around the world to reverse their autoimmune diseases.

To reverse a chronic illness, you want to avoid things that create more inflammatory damage and optimize your body’s ability to repair itself. Inflammatory damage comes from high stress, poor sleep, and inflammatory foods like animal-based and processed ingredients. What’s often missing from nutrition interventions for chronic diseases is the nourishment necessary for cellular repair. The best foods to use are cruciferous vegetables, omega-3s from flax and chia, and high water intake.

What does your hyper-nourishing plant-based diet protocol entail?

What are the outcomes?

For more from Dr. Goldner, visit GoodbyeLupus.com or follow @goodbyelupus on Instagram.

If you think about chronic diseases like a forest fire, then eliminating inflammatory foods would be akin to making sure there are no campfires and that other precautions are being taken not to start any new fires.

Hyper-nourishment would be the fire department showing up first to contain the fire, and then eventually putting it out.

Even after over a decade of working with people on disease reversal, I still live in a state of astonishment and excitement watching people go through the process. The body has a greater ability to repair itself than we were ever taught in medical school. I see the most dramatic examples of recovery working with people every day in my 6 Week Rapid Recovery Group. In this aggressive program, we see people who have had autoimmune diseases for decades whose symptoms fade away within days to weeks.

What are your top recommendations for our readers looking to make healthy improvements to their diets and overall lifestyles?

1. If the change in your diet feels overwhelming, start by adding in what you’re missing. You can add hyper-nourishment to your diet using green smoothies.

2. Keep it simple. You don’t need to learn dozens of new recipes to make a lifestyle change. Start with adding smoothies and salads and make simple meals that can satisfy your appetite without being overwhelming.

3. Don’t rely on food as a source of emotional comfort. Use food as a tool and plan for soothing and fun experiences to release stress and create happiness in your life.

4. Remember you’re not just making a choice between fries and a salad, you’re making a choice between unhealthy food and the quality of your life and health.

When you let yourself see the big picture, the struggle disappears.

The media has become a saturated source of nutrition information.

While there is a lot of accurate nutrition data to be found, not all of it is factual. Which wellness trends and myths would you like to see disappear and why?

The biggest source of nutrition mythology that holds people back from recovery is the obsession with protein. I have made so many videos about protein on my social media platforms to try to shake people free from the belief that they need to somehow quantify or supplement their protein intake.

There are only three reasons people would typically have low protein in their bloodstream: 1) They are starving; 2) They have kidney failure and are losing protein through tears in their kidneys; and 3) [They have] high inflammation, [which can lead to] a reduction in their blood protein level. In all of these cases, a hyper-nourishing plant-based diet will return blood protein levels to normal.

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Miami 24 Hours in

by Rebecca Gade Sawicki

G

rab your sunglasses and floppy hat; we’re hitting the chic streets of Miami! The vegan capital of South Florida draws visitors from far and wide—whether you’re interested in a nonstop dance party, vegging out at the beach, or getting a lesson in art history, you can do it all and more in Miami! But what if you only have one day in this sun-soaked town, should you skip it?

Absolutely not!

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Dumplings, Noodles, and Pastries, Oh My! Good Mornin’, Miami!

We’re kicking off our Miami itinerary in the hip and vibrant neighborhood of Wynwood with breakfast at the laidback Love Life Café. Get in the spirit with their Miami Breakfast special (vegan scrambled eggs with jackfruit carne, black beans, and a plant power arepa), but if that’s not your jam, keep it simple with a fruit-powered açaí bowl. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed!

Afterward, wander through Wynwood and appreciate the diverse street art that brings the neighborhood to life— no matter where you turn, you can’t miss it! To learn a little more about the area, visit Wynwood Walls, an outdoor graffiti museum that features artists from around the world. An official tour provides a unique insight into the murals as well as the evolution of the neighborhood.

Plant-Powered Market If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, check out the Coconut Grove Farmers Market. The market has been operating with an almost entirely plant-based lineup of vendors for 40 years. Locals share it’s the only one of its kind in South Florida and perhaps the state. Visitors will find handmade beauty products, baked goods, fresh produce, clothes, and so much more. It will be just about time for lunch once you finish perusing the eclectic mix of vendors, and we have just the place to satisfy your appetite.

Just down the street from the farmers market is one of Miami’s best Asianinspired spots, Minty Z. Your taste buds are in for a flavor party—a tasty mix of chili, ginger, and sesame will have you dreaming of their cuisine for days. Unless you’re not feeling very hungry, forget about trying to decide what to order and dive into one of their chef ’s tasting menus.

Now, we’re just around the corner from another fantastic spot—a jaw-dropping French pâtisserie!

With one step inside L’Artisane Bakery & Bistro, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to vegan heaven. Inside the glistening counter are rows of light and flaky pastries standing at attention, waiting to be chosen. So go ahead!

Indulge!

Grab an extra croissant for the road because our next stop involves some walking!

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The Perfect Nightcap We’re sticking to gorgeous South Beach for dinner, but you’ve got a chooseyour-own-adventure challenge!

Either glam up for a sophisticated fine-dining experience at the famed PLANTA South Beach (don’t miss the sweet and tangy coconut ceviche!) or relax on Full Bloom’s cozy patio with a globally inspired mix of flavorful cuisine.

After dinner, enjoy a nighttime stroll along the beach to catch the sunset, and if you’re feeling up for it, the party will be well underway on Ocean Drive.

So, grab a drink and dance the night away!

SoBe Exploration No trip to Miami is complete without exploring chic South Beach, affectionately known as SoBe. The area is famed for its nonstop nightlife, art galleries, shopping, architecture, and of course, the beach! If this is your first visit to Miami, a great way to learn more about the area is on an architectural walking tour—Miami is home to the largest collection of art deco in the US! The Miami Design and Preservation League offers tours daily, and the proceeds benefit their mission to preserve and protect Miami’s architectural history.

If learning about architecture and history isn’t your jam, wander the mile-long Lincoln Road outdoor shopping mall or give your feet a break and snooze under a beach umbrella.

There’s no better spot for an afternoon nap.

But don’t rest too long, because dinner is coming up!

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Vegans Street on the

by Jared Cross

Whether you’re a new vegan or have been a plant-based eater for a while, the holidays can be difficult to navigate.

We talked with readers from across the country to hear how they handle these special dinners with nonvegan family and friends.

Here’s how to make the most of this holiday season.

VegOut:

What are your secrets for enjoying holiday food festivities with non-vegan friends and family?

Kreg Sterns @bigboxvegan Vegan 28 years · Sarasota, FL

My first bit of advice is to be patient.

Some may not even know you’re vegan and may wonder why you’re not partaking in traditional parts of the meal. I like to take a soft approach rather than spouting facts that may turn the conversation into a battle royale. I explain that I no longer eat those kinds of things and focus on how diverse my diet is and that I don’t have to sacrifice anything I used to enjoy. Often, someone wants to try what I’ve brought to eat and will say, “That’s so good, but I could never be vegan.” To which I usually reply, “Never say never!” The holidays should be enjoyable for all, so don’t sweat it if Aunt Sally passes the gravy for the third time and says, “This has no meat, right?” Just smile and tell them you know this great account on Instagram that features the best fun vegan foods (wink). Happy holidays!

Kelly ODonnell Makayla Justice @kale_yeeah Vegan 7 years · Quakertown, PA

@veganmak Vegan 5 years · Oakland, CA

My first secret for enjoying holiday food festivities with non-vegan friends and family is to always bring a dish to share! It’s great to make a vegan version of something everyone is familiar with (such as vegan mac ‘n’ cheese) to show that vegan food tastes amazing. I’ve shared my vegan versions, and many times non-vegans have enjoyed them as much, or almost more than, the original version. Another tip is to eat before or bring your own food if you’re unsure what’s going to be served! This way you can ensure you’re eating if there are no vegan options.

One secret I have to enjoy holiday food festivities is veganizing some of my family’s favorite foods! There are [a number] of recipes that I love to follow, and many have tutorial videos on YouTube. Some of my favorite holiday dishes to make are mac ‘n’ cheese, apple pie, and bacon Brussels sprouts! My family always loves my food, and it helps open their minds to a vegan lifestyle. I think it’s important to introduce people to vegan versions of dishes they are familiar with, so [the food] isn’t so intimidating! Many local vegan restaurants also offer pre-made food kits around the holidays that are easy to pick up when I don’t have time to cook. There are many vegan meats and alternatives available that having vegan family holidays is easy and delicious!

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SILK NOG Our festive friends over at Silk have been helping us celebrate the holiday season for over a decade. Silk’s soy-based nog boasts notes of caramel and vanilla, an ideal pairing for crumbly cookies and pumpkin pie. On nights you prefer to drink dessert, grab your favorite brandy, add a dollop of whipped cream, and you’re in business.

SO DELICIOUS HOLIDAY NOG It’s a Christmas miracle whenever you’re sipping on a vegan nog that lies somewhere between the thickness of a milkshake and the liquidity of plant milk. At just 90 calories a serving, So Delicious Holiday Nog delivers on this incredible mouthfeel. This rendition begins with a coconut milk base and ends with hints of nutmeg and wintry spices.

CALIFIA FARMS ALMONDMILK HOLIDAY NOG Califia Farms keeps your fridge kosher, gluten-free, and soy-free with its Almondmilk Holiday Nog. The product joins the brand’s lineup of other seasonal sippers, including lattes and coffee creamers, for your drinking pleasure morning, evening, and throughout the new year.

10

Store-Bought Vegan Eggnogs to Enjoy This Holiday Season It's that time of year!

Temperatures are dropping and holiday nogs are lining grocery shelves. Whether you're spending the evenings alone while curled up with a good book in front of the fire, or you’re hosting seasonal dinners for family and friends, this creamy beverage is what you need.

By Jared Cross 32 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

MILKADAMIA VEGGNOG Go ahead and add macadamia nuts to the list of ingredients vegans have reimagined with their explosive creativity. But this time, macadamias aren’t straight from the bag. Instead, you’ll find them as the rich base of Milkadamia’s Veggnog! The seasonal beverage is silky, subtly sweet, and great on its own or in recipes calling for milk.

GOOD KARMA HOLIDAY NOG Our blenders are buzzing for a holiday frosty, so grab a ripe frozen banana, a couple of dates, your go-to plant-based ice cream, and Good Karma’s Holiday Nog! Their nog is nut- and soy-free and enriched with organic cold-pressed flax oil! Sprinkle in your favorite holiday spices or blend in some gingersnaps for a little spice and a little crunch.

ALMOND BREEZE ALMONDMILK NOG Almond Breeze relies on a network of nearly 3,000 farmers to build and sustain its operations. These growers assist in maintaining quality and consistency across the company’s product line. The brand’s Almondmilk Nog is cholesterolfree, gluten-free, and a great example of their commitment to superior nutrition.

GOOD & GATHER OATMILK HOLIDAY NOG After assembling a tower of holiday presents and wrapping paper into your shopping cart, you can put the metaphorical ribbon on top with a carton of Oatmilk Holiday Nog from Good & Gather. This Target-owned brand takes pride in its product line, as the line is free from high-fructose corn syrup, synthetic colors, and artificial flavors and sweeteners.

TRADER JOE’S O’NOG While you’re strolling through the aisles of your local Trader Joe’s, keep an eye out for O’Nog! You’re looking for a carton with green holly sprigs and an oat wearing a scarf. Stir a few splashes into your waffle mix, bake it in banana bread, or add it to your morning cereal.

ELMHURST OAT NOG In 2016, Henry Schwartz shuttered the last Elmhurst dairy factory, which his family owned for nearly a century. His motive was to pivot to plant milk along with the droves of Americans becoming increasingly aware of the relationship between their food sources and the environment. Today, the company creates dairy-free delights like its signature sixingredient Oat Nog.

CHOBANI OAT NOG When you think of Chobani, you think of thick, protein-packed, Greek-style yogurt. But the New York-based brand is confident that its dairy-, nut-, and soy-free Oat Nog will become one of your holiday essentials. It’s an excellent source of calcium and vitamins A and D.

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10 Ethical Vegan Chocolate Gifts

By Alejandra Tolley

We're talking all things chocolate this season! These brands showcase the absolute best in their holiday offerings. They stock everything from gourmet truffles to tahini-flavored chocolate bars. And the best part— each of these fudgy delights is ethically sourced. Treat your gift recipient to the ultimate chocolate experience and spread confection cheer throughout the holiday season!

Blackout Chocolate Bars 1 Alter Eco Alter Eco offers the most sustainable gift-worthy chocolate bars! Each treat is made with clean, organic ingredients sourced from small-scale and fair-trade farmers. By focusing on a low-waste approach, Alter Eco's products are packaged with recyclable and compostable wrapping. Shop their Blackout vegan chocolate selection that features six mouthwatering flavors.

These bars range from 85% to a pure 100% blend of cacao, making these treats a chocolaty dream. This will be your go-to green holiday gift!

Madagascar Collection 3 Gift Box Beyond Good Chocolate

Beyond Good Chocolate is creating change within our current food system. With a focus on transparency and quality, they offer ethically made chocolate bars that transform chocolate and vanilla production.

The Madagascar Collection Gift Box is the ultimate gift for your vegan friend. This bundle showcases three flavors, including Vanilla Bean, Plantain & Sea Salt, and Fleur de Sel!

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Melk Chocolate 2 Christmas Trees

Raw Chocolate Company

Raw Chocolate Company is celebrating the holidays with their limited-edition Christmas Trees! Made with hazelnut paste, cacao nibs, and coconut sugar, these succulent treats will have you indulging all season long. These bite-sized chocolates will be your go-to stocking stuffer, and they add the perfect touch to your holiday festivities!

22-pc Holiday Collection Truffles 4 Coracao ‘Tis the season for vegan truffles! The eco-conscious chocolate brand sources their cacao from regenerative farms, ensuring a humane approach to their products. This season, they’re offering a special 22-pc holiday collection filled with cacao blends of fruity and nutty undertones. All truffles are dipped in their signature 81% dark cacao and made with certified organic ingredients. Flavors include Peppermint Fudge, Pecan Butter, Ginger-Spiced Caramel, and Hazelnut Cream.

Pumpkin and Tahini Swirls Bars 5 Raaka Raaka Chocolate creates the must-have unconventional chocolate bars this holiday season. With a focus on fruity notes of cacao, they make unroasted chocolate from scratch, creating the one-of-kind taste Raaka’s chocolate is known for! While offering high-quality humanely sourced chocolate, they give us a step-by-step look into their production process. This means you’ll be able to taste the intentional care it took to prepare their holiday chocolates. Shop Raaka’s Pumpkin and Tahini swirl bars, treats with a sweet twist.

Organic Chocolate Bars 6 Equal Exchange Equal Exchange makes chocolate for a more humane and environmentally sound future.

By working closely with their farmers and operating as a co-op, they’re able to offer authentic fair-trade products. This holiday season, we recommend shopping for their scrumptious vegan chocolate bars! Featuring flavors such as Organic Mint Crunch, Organic Whole Almond & Sea Salt, and Organic Coconut Milk, these will be the fudgy treats everyone needs.

7 9-pc Holiday Truffle Assortment

Sjaak’s

Sjaak’s is what chocolaty opulent dreams are made of! The luxurious chocolate brand features a 9-piece holiday truffle assortment. You can create the perfect gift with your choice of Sjaak’s organic melk or dark chocolates. Indulge in flavors such as Mexican Hot Chocolate, Hazelnut, Cherry Pepper, or Cashew Caramel Chocolate.

9-pc Truffle Assortment 8 Good Girl Chocolate Dark chocolate, coconut chocolate, nutty chocolate, we love it all! Founder Dr. Tabatha Carr offers a mouthwatering assortment that will satisfy all your sweet cravings. In this 9-piece selection, you can enjoy a variety of flavorful textures and cacao blends. The assortment features two Caramel Cakes, two Almond Pralines, two Pecan Fudges, one Fudge Cake, and two Cookie Doughs. This is a must-try chocolate gift to shop this holiday season!

9 Nutcracker Brittle and Peppermint Crunch Dark Chocolate Bars

Theo Chocolate

Theo Chocolate is offering show-stopping flavors for the holidays! The Seattle-based company uses responsibly sourced cacao beans from Central Africa to deliver the most gourmet-flavored chocolate. Indulge in flavors like Peppermint Crunch and Nutcracker Brittle—each made with minimal ingredients! Your loved ones will be obsessed with these sweet delights.

Chocolate Bar Variety Pack 10 TCHO Not sure what to gift the chocolate gourmand in your life? Look no further!

TCHO’s Chocolate Bar Variety Pack offers flavors to please every taste bud.

This sampler features a delectable selection, including Holy Fudge, Born Fruity, Choco Latte, Toffee Time, and more—the perfect blend of chocolaty favorites! TCHO achieves its diverse selection by sourcing cacao from fairtrade farms worldwide, including Ecuador and Peru.

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Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Ingredients Muffin Batter - 2 ½ cups oat flour - 2 tsp cinnamon - 1 tsp ground ginger - ½ tsp allspice - ½ tsp nutmeg - 1 tsp baking powder - ½ tsp baking soda - ¼ tsp sea salt - 1 cup non-dairy milk - 1 cup pumpkin puree - ¾ cup coconut sugar - ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce - 1 tsp apple cider vinegar - 1 tsp vanilla extract

Prep time: 26 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 12 muffins

Topping - ⅓ cup pecans, roughly chopped - 1 Tbsp coconut sugar Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line muffin tray with paper liners or use a silicone muffin tray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, spice, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt.

3. In another mixing bowl, mix together non-dairy milk, pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, applesauce, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry mixture and fold until it just comes together, but do not over mix.

5. Scoop the batter into the muffin cups and top with chopped pecans and a sprinkle of coconut sugar.

6. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Serve when muffins have cooled. You can also store the muffins at room temperature in a container or in the fridge. Consume within 5 to 6 days.

These perfect pumpkin spice muffins are great to bring to brunch or to eat as a sweet snack. Real pumpkin puree makes them extra moist, and gluten-free oat flour kicks up the fiber!

By Lauren Toyota

Easy Sweet Potato Mash

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 6

Ingredients - 8 cups diced sweet potatoes (peeled or unpeeled) - 6 Tbsp vegan butter - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast - 1 tsp dill - ½ tsp nutmeg - ½ tsp sea salt - Ground black pepper, to taste - ⅓ cup pecans, toasted and chopped (optional)

Directions 1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Once at a rolling boil, add the diced sweet potatoes. They should take approximately 10 minutes to cook until tender. Drain the potatoes and add them back to the pot.

2. Add the remaining ingredients (except the pecans) and mash with a potato masher until smooth. Top with pecans and serve immediately!

This easy vegan sweet potato mash is creamy, sweet, and savory.

By Lauren Toyota

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients Crispy Onion Strings - 1 white onion - 1 ½ cups non-dairy milk (soy or almond work best) - 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar - 1 ½ cups rice flour - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp sea salt - ½ tsp ground black pepper - 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying) Green Bean Casserole - 8 cups fresh green beans (or thawed frozen green beans) - 1 cup raw whole cashews, soaked for 20 minutes in hot water - 1 ½ cups water - 1 Tbsp arrowroot flour or cornstarch - 1 Tbsp coconut oil - 8 oz cremini mushrooms - 1 shallot, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced Prep time: 30 minutes - 1 tsp onion powder Cook time: 45 minutes - ½ tsp nutmeg Servings: 6 - ½ tsp sea salt - ½ tsp ground black pepper - ⅔ cup low-sodium vegetable stock - 1 Tbsp lemon juice Directions 1. Thinly slice the onion with a mandoline or knife. The slices should be thin enough that you can see through them.

2. Pour the non-dairy milk into a bowl and whisk in the apple cider vinegar.

Let the onions soak in this mixture for 10 to 15 minutes.

3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour with smoked paprika, sea salt, and ground black pepper.

4. Heat your frying oil in a large pot until it reaches 365°F.

A classic green bean casserole made vegan and gluten-free! It’s creamy, tasty comfort food you can feel good about.

By Lauren Toyota

38 | VEGOUTMAG.COM

5. Using your hands, toss and coat all the onions with flour. Gently shake off any excess and set them aside in another bowl. Deep fry onions in small batches. They take approximately 2 minutes. Remove with tongs and lay out onto paper towel. Continue frying batches until all the onions are used up.

6. If you have more onions than you need to top the one casserole, just bring the extras to the table, as I’m sure people will be topping their entire plate of food with these delicious, crunchy onions!

7. To make the sauce for the casserole, drain the cashews from the soaking water. Rinse them under fresh water and drain. Then add to a high-powered blender with fresh water and arrowroot flour. Blend until very smooth.

8. Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat, add mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes.

9. Add shallot and sauté for another 3 to 5 minutes.

10. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Then add onion powder, nutmeg, sea salt, and ground black pepper and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.

11. Stir in low-sodium vegetable stock and cashew cream in small portions, bit by bit, stirring constantly until smooth and well combined. Bring to a simmer.

12. Once the sauce is simmering, add lemon juice and then green beans. Toss the beans in the sauce and cover the pan with a lid.

13. Let this sit for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beans are cooked but still bright green and slightly crisp.

14. Remove the pan from the heat and either serve it in the pan or transfer beans and sauce to a casserole dish. Top with crispy onions. You can also put the whole casserole under the broiler for a few minutes to warm and crisp up the onion strings. Serve immediately!

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PRODUCTS WE LOVE

By Anja Grommons

Cleveland Kitchen Kimchi Supporting gut health during the holidays has never tasted so good!

We are obsessed with these flavored kimchi offerings.

Le Grand Vegan Butter Find us adding this vegan butter to our dinner rolls, mashed potatoes, and everything in between!

Ithaca Hummus Beaut Burger Veggie Burgers These artisan veggie burger-and-bun packs sure are a beaut! We’re loving these super easy handhelds to break up our holiday meals.

When we are in charge of the holiday party snacks, the Lemon Garlic Ithaca Hummus is always on the appetizer table.

Bragg Nutritional Yeast Bragg’s nooch is always there to enhance our holiday cooking.

This year, the Roasted Garlic Nutritional Yeast is coming in handy!

That’s it.

Dark Chocolate Truffles Find us curling up with a cup of hot tea, a good read, and a few Dark Chocolate Truffles. It’s the Dark Chocolate Date flavor for us!

Boba Bam Instant Boba We’re taking a break from sipping hot cocoa and festive bubbly to enjoy this Brown Sugar Instant Boba.

We love adding these chewy bites to chilled coconut milk.

OCA Energy Drinks When we need a sustainable energy boost to get us through wrapping presents,we reach for OCA PlantBased Energy Drinks.

Justin’s Super Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups These Super Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups make it so easy to treat yourself, even during the holiday hustle and bustle.

Oomph! Chews ‘Tis the season to chew functional candies. The Passion Fruit Chews are our new must-have.

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If you’ve been sober for a while, you know that, for decades, nonalcoholic holiday drinks have largely consisted of soda water with a splash of cranberry and a lime. If you’re newly sober this season or are just trying to cut back, you’re in luck! There are now dozens of companies offering non-alcoholic spirits crafted by mixologists to create delicious craft cocktails (nonalcoholic old fashioned, anyone?).

Here are eight non-alcoholic spirits to enjoy over the holiday season.

Please note that some of these non-alcoholic cocktails contain trace amounts (<0.5%) of alcohol.

Spirits

8 Non-Alcoholic

to Enjoy This Holiday Season

by Cayla White

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Seedlip

Lyre’s

Seedlip is one of the original companies making non-alcoholic spirits. Founded in London in 2015, Seedlip is now available in bars, retailers, and hotels across the globe. The brand offers three varieties of spirits: Grove 42, Spice 94, and Garden 108. Grove 42 is made with citrus and lemongrass and works great as a vodka replacement in a Cosmopolitan. Spice 94 is made with allspice, oak, and cardamom and is a great substitute for whiskey lovers. Garden 108 is made with hops, hay, and rosemary and is a refreshing replacement for gin.

Lyre’s is one of the most popular companies offering non-alcoholic spirits, and for good reason. Their award-winning products range from non-alcoholic absinthe to non-alcoholic coffee liqueur and everything in between. Some of their bestsellers include the Dark Cane Spirit (their take on a dark rum with flavors of caramel, fudge, and molasses) and the Amaretti (a non-alcoholic Amaretto complete with the almond and candied vanilla flavors you know and love). And if there’s a specific cocktail you’re missing this year, check out their gift sets, which come with all the bottles you’ll need to make your favorite cocktails, sans alcohol.

Kin Euphorics Kin Euphorics combines functional herbs and medicinal plants into non-alcoholic seltzers and spirits. The two non-alcoholic spirits they make are called High Rhode and Dream Light.

High Rhode is made with active ingredients like Rhodiola rosea, 5-HTP, and GABA, which help balance cortisol, elevate serotonin, and calm the nervous system. The result is a natural high and familiar comfortability in social situations that you’d expect from a typical cocktail. Dream Light is made with Reishi mushrooms, melatonin, and L-tryptophan, which help quiet your mind and signal your brain to rest, making it the perfect spirit to enjoy right before bed.

Three Spirit Another company that’s adding functional herbs to their non-alcoholic spirits, Three Spirit is all about celebrating what they put in their products, not the alcohol that’s missing. Crafted by plant scientists, herbalists, and mixologists, their products include the Livener, the Social Elixir, and the Nightcap. The Livener is made with watermelon, guava, and ginger and is packed with guayusa and green tea for a natural energy boost. The Social Elixir is made with cacao, tulsi, and damiana, all of which help promote feelings of calm and connection. The Nightcap is the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day, as it’s made with herbs that help promote relaxation, like lemon balm, valerian, and ashwagandha.

Monday

Ceder’s

Monday makes small-batch non-alcoholic gin, whiskey, and mezcal in a California distillery. The brand aims to make sure you can enjoy a great craft cocktail and still feel good on Monday morning. Monday’s non-alcoholic gin feels like a classic London dry gin, with flavors of juniper, citrus, and spices. The non-alcoholic whiskey has flavors of butterscotch, coffee, molasses, and spices that work well in a classic cocktail or just on a big rock with a twist of orange. Their mezcal combines flavors of campfire smoke, florals, and roasted agave for a clean and smoky finish.

Ceder’s distills four different styles of nonalcoholic gin out of the Cederberg region of South Africa, which is home to many botanicals often found in gin. Ceder’s offers four varieties of their non-alcoholic gin, including Classic, Crisp, Wild, and Pink Rose. The Classic is reminiscent of a typical mid-shelf gin, with notes of juniper, coriander, and rooibos. The Crisp is light, with refreshing notes of cucumber and chamomile.

The Wild is a bit spicy and has aromatic notes of clove. The Pink Rose is one of their top sellers and is made with rose and hibiscus.

Ghia Ghia makes a non-alcoholic apéritif, which is traditionally an alcoholic drink served before a meal to induce appetite. Inspired by Mediterranean aperitivo culture, Ghia crafted this non-alcoholic version for everyone to enjoy. Made with extracts of herbs and botanicals, like yuzu, lemon balm, orange peel, and elderflower, this drink is best served over ice or with a carbonated mixer and squeeze of lemon.

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Spiritless Established in 2019, Spiritless has already won top prizes for its Kentucky 74—a non-alcoholic whiskey—at the LA Spirit Awards. With familiar notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, it’s a perfect swap for whiskey or bourbon in a whiskey smash or veganized whiskey sour with aquafaba. Spiritless also recently released a Jalisco tequila as well as two ready-to-drink canned cocktails in the form of a whiskey sour and an old fashioned—all nonalcoholic of course!

M A K I N G D I N N E R T I M E E A S I E R WITH

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fatbadgerbakery.com

This Queer-Owned Vegan Donut Shop Is Putting Seattle on the Vegan Food Map Seattle is known for many things—Starbucks, hiking trails, and Pike Place Market, to name a few. But as large and popular as Seattle is, it doesn’t have as many all-vegan establishments as other major cities. That’s what first inspired Sean Willis and Christopher Ballard to open Dough Joy Donuts.

By Allie Mitchell BAKING YEAST-RAISED DONUTS FROM SCRATCH During the pandemic, the passionate vegan duo thought up ways to grow the plant-based scene in Seattle. Through all of the brainstorming, one thing stuck out—donuts! Willis and Ballard realized there wasn’t a place in the area that made fun, delicious yeast-raised vegan donuts. With a solid idea, loads of passion, and absolutely no culinary experience, the two set out to create a vegan donut of their dreams. They spent hours upon hours testing recipes in their tiny apartment kitchen.

Dough Joy’s Criteria for the Perfect Vegan Donut: • Soft, fluffy base • A little jiggle to its wiggle • Delicious • memorable • Nostalgic Food Truck Beginnings to Bustling Brick-and-Mortars Once Willis and Ballard perfected their vegan donut recipe, it was time to share it with the world! Their vessel of choice? A food truck! Food trucks are a great way for businesses to get their feet wet without taking on the immense responsibility of a brick-and-mortar location. But that doesn’t mean food trucks don’t come without their own challenges.

“The food truck was an all-inclusive kitchen with a fryer and everything. It had the retail aspect as well. It was a great place to start because we quickly learned how to navigate things like water coming through the window when raining or operating during extreme heat—all of which have huge impacts on yeast-raised products, like our donuts,” said Willis. After surviving their first winter in the Dough Joy truck, Willis and Ballard knew they needed to open a storefront to help sustain the business year-round.

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In January of 2022, Dough Joy opened its first brick-and-mortar in Capitol Hill. With a display case full of innovative donut flavors, a full coffee bar, and stunning pink and white decor, it’s no secret that the shop draws in Seattleites.

In fact, Dough Joy’s first location was such a hit that they opened a second one in West Seattle this past June.

Not Your Average Donuts

Photos courtesy of Heather Tanner, Sabel Roizen, and Dough Joy Donuts

Dough Joy’s motto is “We do donuts differently.” And that they do! This vegan donut shop turns out some of the most creative donut flavors out there. We’re talking about Blueberry Chocolate Fritters, Mango con Chile⁣⁣, Brown Sugar Cinnamon Roll, PB Cup, Banana French Toast⁣⁣, Pear Cardamom, Strawberry Lemonade, and even a savory Everything But The Bagel⁣⁣ donut.

Willis shared, “Our flavor-creating process is pretty quick and sporadic. Typically, my baker or I will have an idea or find inspiration online, and then we brainstorm ways we can make it more fun, indulgent, and tasty. I'll jump into the kitchen, whip up an icing, test it on my baking team the night of, and it’s usually out on display the next day. It's a very quick process, and that's why we say to watch our Instagram closely because you never know what flavors will drop when—and neither do we sometimes!”

Branding Is Key While most of Dough Joy’s success is attributed to its stellar donuts and lattes, the business is also known for its eye-catching branding. From the logo and graphics to the decor and social media feed, Dough Joy has got it going on!

Willis and Ballard aspired for Dough Joy to be an experience—not just a run-of-the-mill donut shop.

“We want to evoke a positive, happy feeling whether you're at our shop devouring a donut (or four) or just eyeing our social media from afar,” Willis stated. The duo partnered with designer Kaye Huett to create graphics to match the Dough Joy vibe. Both Willis and Ballard are active on the Dough Joy Instagram page, posting updates, responding to messages, and asking for feedback on the regular.

“Whether it was baking at 3am and making stories for Instagram, updating people in the morning when all the donuts flew off the trays, or announcing a new flavor, social media has played a huge role in our success—because we made it a priority from day one.

We've built incredible relationships through social media as well. Christopher and I read and respond to every [message] that comes in because we truly value our customers' input,” shared Willis.

Inspiring Other Queer Entrepreneurs As an openly Queer-owned business, Dough Joy is paving the way for future LGBTQ+ business owners.

Willis shared, “We hope we inspire other Queer entrepreneurs to pursue their craziest ideas—to take that risk that seems like too much and be proud of who they are while doing it. Being an entrepreneur is not easy, it's grueling, and you'll definitely cry along the way (a few times). You'll think that no one understands what you're going through, but when you do it with authenticity and transparency, you will gain a ton of support to help you through the hardest of times and come out better on the other side. We're rooting for you!”

VEGOUTMAG.COM | 47

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Best Zero-Waste Gifts for Every Zodiac Sign by Tammie Ortlieb

We’re wrapping up this year in festive style with gifts that are both kind to the planet and perfect for the recipient.

Whether your friend is a wandering Sag or a home-loving Cancer, we’ve got the zero-waste gifts they’ll adore.

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Aries

Mar. 21 - Apr. 19

Libra

Sept. 23 - Oct. 22

This fiery personality bleeds coffee. The stronger, the better. Go for a sustainable travel mug, subscription to a zero-waste coffee brand, or reusable filters. Another zero-waste gift idea to fuel Aries’ competitive drive includes running shoes crafted from recycled materials, or stick with the basics and choose red-tinted lip balm in a plastic-free tube!

Writer, artist, fashion diva: Libra loves the creative, luxurious life. But all that indulgence doesn’t need to come at the expense of the planet. Check out sustainable fashion brands that craft on-trend shoes and clothing from recycled ocean plastics like old water bottles and fishing nets, or go for tickets to a sustainable, vegan fashion event.

Taurus

Scorpio

Apr. 20 - May 20

Down-to-earth Taurus (ruled by Venus) loves the cozy, indulgent life. Think sustainable weighted blankets, fair-trade chocolates, and soft AF slippers. Cooking and gardening also appeal to this sign, making pots of kitchen herbs and cookbooks with zero-waste recipes great gift options as well.

Gemini

May 21 - June 20

Good luck keeping up with the wishes of this mercurial vegan! But if the twins are anything, they are well-read and eager to share their thoughts. If they can learn from it, write in it, or communicate with it, they’re going to love your gift. Choose audiobook subscriptions, writing journals, and coffee shop gift cards.

Cancer

June 21 - July 22

The mother of the zodiac, Cancer, lives to nurture and be nurtured. Sensitive and soft-hearted, this sign thrives on creating a warm, inviting home environment that welcomes family and friends as well as self.

Reusable kitchen swaps would make great gifts, as would sustainable candles and home decor crafted from recycled materials.

Leo

July 23 - Aug. 22

Attention, all! Leo has entered the room. This diva of the zodiac is going to need zero-waste gifts that help maintain those star locks. We’re thinking shampoo and conditioning bars, bamboo hairbrushes, and hair masks in recyclable aluminum tubes. Scrunchies and hair ties crafted from repurposed materials are other great gift options.

Virgo

Aug. 23 - Sept. 22

Neat, organized, functional—these words describe the ideal gift for a Virgo. With that, and the sign’s love of working in the kitchen, go for a sustainable cutting board, zero-waste food storage containers or wrappers, or reusable paper towels. If it’s practical and makes cooking more streamlined, it’s perfect.

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

This deep, emotional, mysterious sign loves to keep things dark, heavy, and private. Think “gifts with an edge.” For Scorpio, we like upcycled black vegan leather jackets, boots constructed from old tire treads, and skull-shaped planters made from repurposed materials.

Sagittarius

Nov. 22 - Dec. 21

Always on the go and ready for the next adventure, Sag loves any gift that involves travel and fun! Gift them a zero-waste toiletries bag filled with all the products they’ll need while away from home—bamboo toothbrushes, reusable cotton rounds, shampoo bars, and more! Have a bigger budget? Surprise them with a two-night stay at an eco-friendly resort.

Capricorn

Dec. 22 - Jan. 19

This hardworking sign appreciates a gift that supports their work environment. They’re focused, driven, taskoriented, and not afraid to put in the hours needed to get a job done. Choose a travel coffee mug, a business tote constructed from recycled materials, or a desk organizer designed to hold all of those sustainable office supplies.

Aquarius

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

If it’s unique, a little eccentric, and designed to contribute to the betterment of the planet, then Aquarius will likely love it! Reusable cotton swab, anyone? Shoes made from pineapple leaves? A gift card to an all-vegan thrift shop? These are just some of the great ideas for your Aquarius friend.

Pisces

Feb. 19 - Mar. 20

If there’s a sign that treasures a handmade gift, Pisces is it! Knit a scarf with yarn scraps you have lying around.

Cut up old clothing to fashion an upcycled top. Fancy up a uniquely designed jar instead of tossing it into recycling, and fill it with crystals. Sentimental AF, Pisces would also appreciate a handwritten letter or poem letting them know how much they mean to you.

Zero-Waste Beauty Gifts to Give (or Get) This Year This holiday season, give the gift of zerowaste beauty! Shop these essentials for the sustainable beauty enthusiast in your life.

From reusable cotton rounds to compostable makeup tools, we’re highlighting the best eco-friendly gift ideas.

BY

ALEJANDRA TOLLEY

Golden Hour Balmie Set Axiology axiology.com $36 Axiology is the go-to brand for eco-friendly beauty lovers. Founder Ericka Rodriguez creates the first-ever zero-waste lip balm, making it the versatile beauty product you need. Get your hands on Axiology’s Golden Hour Set! This must-try features three mini balmies for your eyes, lips, and cheeks that will give you the perfect pop of color.

Lavender Sweet Orange Hand + Body Wash Meow Meow Tweet meowmeowtweet.com $20 Meow Meow Tweet is making low-waste beauty stress-free. By offering a bulk section on their website, you can return your empties while saving money and plastic. Shop their sweet botanical-infused Lavender Sweet Orange Hand + Body Wash—a shower musttry!

Golden Body Oil YAYFOREARTH yayforearth.com $40 This body oil will give you the holiday glow you’re looking for. YAYFOREARTH formulates zero-waste body care products ideal for the minimal beauty enthusiast. Get your hands on their Golden Body Oil, the most gentle quick-absorbing oil made for all skin types.

Radiate Face Jelly + Cloth Set Base Butter basebutter.com $40

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Say goodbye to makeup wipes and make room for your new night routine staple! Base Butter offers a sustainably made microfiber cleansing cloth that gently and quickly removes your makeup. Partnered with their Radiate Face Jelly makeup cleanser, these cleansing cloths will leave your skin feeling plumped and refreshed every time.

Body Care Bundle UpCircle upcirclebeauty.com $63 Your shower routine isn’t complete without this nourishing bundle! UpCircle Beauty features a soap bar, body scrub, and body cream made with clean and moisturizing plant-based ingredients. And don’t worry about excessive packaging—the sustainable beauty brand ensures all products are shipped with recyclable materials!

Refillable Cosmetics Case Elate elatebeauty.com $21 Elate is making sure all beauty is sustainable, even beauty tools and accessories! Shop their Refillable Cosmetics Case, the perfect zero-waste tool to hold your eyeshadows and blushes. When completely finished, break up the bamboo and throw it in your compost!

Tea Seed Elixir LOLI lolibeauty.com $42 Zero-waste beauty has never been easier! LOLI Beauty formulates products with the most effective and replenishing vegan ingredients. Shop their Tea Seed Elixir, a zesty facial oil that will combat any blemishes while leaving your skin looking brighter and healthier.

Beautified Skin Set ATTITUDE attitudeliving.com $34.85 ATTITUDE is the go-to beauty brand for the environmentalist in your life! Their Beautified Skin Set is the perfect gift for someone who wants to adopt a low-waste beauty routine. This bundle features three solids, including a body scrub, body butter, and a lip balm—all made with leaf extracts and plant-based oils, leaving your skin silky smooth from head to toe.

Dynamic Duo Starter Kit Dew Mighty dewmighty.com $52 Dew Mighty makes its products with the most botanical-forward ingredients and keeps them plastic-free. Featuring a nourishing solid jelly serum partnered with a refillable container, this sustainable beauty product is perfect for on the go!

LastRound Kit LastObject lastobject.com $38 This zero-waste beauty product is a game changer.

LastObject creates an easy solution to reduce waste while removing makeup! Shop their LastRound Kit, which features 21 wood-fiber rounds, a case made from ocean-bound plastic, and a laundry bag to wash all cleansing rounds together!

4 Trader Joe’s Grocery Hauls for the Holidays

VEGAN MARSHMALLOWS

VEGAN RANCH CRUNCH SALAD KIT

These gelatin-free marshmallows are such a key ingredient in holiday cooking.

Whether you’re making a sweet potato casserole or festive dessert, the vegan marshmallows are a must!

Don’t skimp on your veggies, friends! This Vegan Ranch Crunch Salad Kit is not only delicious, but it’s super simple to assemble. The kit includes your greens, dressing, and crunchy mix-ins.

BREADED TURKEY-LESS STUFFED ROAST WITH GRAVY

This protein-packed vegan roast is an annual Friendsgiving staple! Simply pair with a few seasonal sides and good company, and you’ve got yourself a classic holiday meal.

EVERYTHING BUT THE LEFTOVERS SEASONING BLEND

This humble seasoning blend can transform any dish into a meal fit for your Friendsgiving table.

Add it to roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, homemade stuffing, and so much more.

VEGAN MAC

Don’t host a fall dinner without this creamy mac. Simply heat and serve or get creative with a little extra DIY. Pour it into a casserole pan, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.

BLANC DE BLANCS BRUT

If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly bubbly to sip with your friends and fam, look no further. Sneak in some cranberries, orange slices, and rosemary sprigs for a festive cocktail to enjoy.

MINI FRENCH BAGUETTES

Freshly baked bread in minutes! The Mini French Baguettes were made to round out your Thanksgiving meals. Oh, and don’t forget to serve the Trader Joe’s Vegan Buttery Spread on the side!

VEGAN SPINACH AND CASHEW RAVIOLI

Comfort food—coming right up! Whether you’re serving these vegan ravioli with veggies and red sauce or adding them to a cozy soup, your guests are going to love this filled pasta.

Friendsgiving

It’s time to gather your besties and get cooking! Whether you’re hosting this year’s feast or bringing a dish to pass, let Trader Joe’s add some holiday cheer to your Friendsgiving menu.

From vegan roasts and dairy-free mac to fresh bread and plant-based ravioli, TJ’s has it all!

By Anja Grommons

Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving dinner, setting up a holiday dessert table, serving your family a festive brunch, or attending an appetizer party, make sure your holiday to-do list includes a trip to Trader Joe’s. From holiday favorites to store-brand mainstays, the aisles of this American grocery store are exactly where you need to be this season!

MAPLE LEAF COOKIES

HOLD THE DAIRY! VEGAN CHOCOLATE MINI CONES

Although these maple creme cookies are available year-round, they always remind us of the holiday season. Serve with steeped tea or hot chocolate for those extra cozy vibes.

JOE-JOE’S

This classic Trader Joe’s sandwich cookie always deserves a spot on our holiday dessert table. Whether you dress them up or serve them as-is, you really can’t go wrong with these faves.

These mini cones are the perfect addition to your treat table. Not only is the flavor phenomenal, but the size is perfect for those craving a small treat or for those wanting a little bit of everything.

NON-DAIRY FROZEN DESSERT CHOCOLATE FUDGE OAT BARS Sure, there might be a chill in the air, but nothing will stop us from enjoying these vegan fudge bars!

These memorable dessert bars are made with oat milk and are, therefore, extra creamy.

VEGAN COOKIES & CREME VANILLA BEAN BON BONS

‘Tis the season to sit around and eat bon bons. But not just any bon bons will do for our holiday dessert table. These cookies & creme frozen treats are where it’s at. Chef’s kiss!

STRAWBERRY NON-DAIRY OAT FROZEN DESSERT

While the American grocery offers a variety of flavors to choose from, now is the time to show guests how good vegan ice cream really can be.

The strawberry is always a crowd-pleaser!

THAI BANANA FRITTERS

For a change of pace, try these banana fritters!

Each bite is like a trip to the streets of Thailand.

Impress your guests by pairing this treat with dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

OAT NON-DAIRY FROZEN DESSERT SANDWICHES

Your guests will seriously obsess over these nostalgic frozen treats. We love rolling the edges in vegan-friendly sprinkles to add a little holiday cheer.

Those little touches go a long way.

Dessert Table

Fellow sweet tooths, this is our season! And this year we aren’t settling for a small array of simple treats—we’re setting up a full dessert table. Of course, we’re leaving room for Grandma’s homemade cookies and chocolate-covered pretzels, but our TJ’s haul is clearly the star.

ORGANIC CREAMY CASHEW CULTURED YOGURT ALTERNATIVE

Whether you’re whipping up dairyfree parfaits or brunch smoothies, the vegan yogurt from Trader Joe’s is the perfect ingredient. We also love adding a dollop atop our plantbased baked goods.

HASHBROWNS

Who doesn’t love a hashbrown patty?

That rhetorical question is exactly why these shredded potato slabs are required at brunch! Top these fried potatoes with mashed avocado or tofu scramble.

VEGAN CREAM CHEESE ALTERNATIVE

Bagels and vegan cream cheese—coming right up! This dairy-free spread glides easily on toasted bagels, from everything style to fall-themed pumpkin.

It’s also great for loaded bagel sandwiches.

VEGAN BANANA BREAD WITH WALNUTS

Searching for a last-minute breakfast item? We’ve SOY CHORIZO got you! With a fresh pat From breakfast skillets and of dairy-free butter, the vegan casseroles to DIY Vegan Banana Bread scrambles and brunch tacos, passes the brunch vibe the Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo check. It’s almost like is a brekkie must! Elevate your Grandma made it herself. holiday brunch with this vegan ingredient.

GLUTEN-FREE GRANOLA

Serve with vegan yogurt or almond milk, and your holiday brunch party guests will love it. Plus this vegan-friendly granola is an inclusive choice for your gluten-free friends and family too!

PUMPKIN ROLLS

Brunch calls for sticky buns, and these accidentally vegan cinnamon rolls are it! While the year-round version is exceptional, the fall season brings pumpkin rolls that are even tastier.

VEGAN BRIOCHE LOAF The Vegan Brioche Loaf from Trader Joe’s was made for homemade French toast. Serve with vegan butter, maple syrup, and dairy-free whipped cream to absolutely wow your guests.

Holiday Brunch

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Hosting overnight guests? Treat them to a plant-based holiday brunch. Serve your go-to mimosas, cold brew coffee, and fresh fruit and veggie juices with delicious breakfast options like French toast, vegan chorizo, and cinnamon rolls. This one makes for a morning to remember!

MEATLESS MEATBALLS

Whether you’re team BBQ sauce or team marinara, the frozen vegan meatballs are an hors d’oeuvres table must! Bake them or throw them in the crockpot for a quick dish to serve.

VEGAN NACHO DIP

From chips and mini tacos to pretzels and vegan taquitos, this Vegan Nacho Dip pairs well with just about everything. We know this is nacho first appetizer party, but thought you’d appreciate the rec.

VEGAN BUFFALO STYLE DIP

CHICKEN-LESS MANDARIN ORANGE MORSELS

These vegan orange chicken bites make for the perfect appetizer.

We’re talking lettuce wraps!

Add the morsels to lettuce cups and top with slaw, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds.

BOURSIN DAIRY-FREE CHEESE SPREAD

Impress your guests with this dairyfree spread. It was practically made for charcuterie boards and appetizer platters. For pairings, we recommend plant-based crackers and vegan bubbly.

DILL PICKLE MINI FALAFEL

Appetizer parties call for all things Buffalo! The Vegan Buffalo Dip pairs well with fresh crudités, crunchy crackers, crispy chips, and fried cauliflower bites.

These baked chickpea balls are about to be the life of the party!

Bonus points if you serve them with the Trader Joe’s Vegan Tzatziki and Quinoa Stuffed Dolmas.

VEGAN CARAMELIZED FRENCH ONION DIP Picture a platter of kettle chips and pretzels. Now picture that same platter with vegan onion dip added. Better, right? Delight your guests with this non-dairy chip dip combo.

ORGANIC VEGGIE BITES

These tasty snacks are the perfect dipper for a variety of sauces. Make them a star at your next holiday appetizer party by shopping the freezer aisles at Trader Joe’s.

Appetizer Party

Not ready to commit to hosting a full-blown holiday meal? We totally get it! Host a relaxed and delicious hors d’oeuvres party instead! Keep it fun with dairy-free dips, vegan meatballs, falafel bites, and more. Get creative with the presentation, serve fancy drinks, and turn on fun music.

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From books and movies to albums and podcasts, we’ve scouted out the best vegan content for you. Here’s what we’ve been reading, listening to, watching, and learning from.

WHAT WE'RE READING, LISTENING TO, AND WATCHING

READING

By Allie Mitchell

Cooking from the Spirit: Easy, Delicious, and Joyful Plant-Based Inspirations

by Tabitha Brown Tabitha Brown is on a roll with her vegan ventures!

Cooking from the Spirit is loaded with Brown’s favorite recipes. Each dish is vibrant, delicious, and family-friendly.

We can’t wait to make the Yam Halves Topped with Maple Cinnamon Pecan Glaze.

Nistisima: The Secret to Delicious Vegan Cooking from the Mediterranean and Beyond

by Georgina Hayden These flavor-packed dishes are sure to wow your friends and family at holiday gatherings! From Little Za’atar Buns and Mushroom, Potato & Cumin Bourekia to Pistachio & Cardamom Halva, Georgina Hayden will teach you how to make vegan Mediterranean dishes with ease.

Vegan Fast Food

by Brian Watson After gaining popularity for his insane vegan fast-food recipes on Instagram, Brian Watson (aka Thee Burger Dude) created a cookbook!

You’ll learn to make drivethru classics like burgers, pizza, kung pao chicken, gorditas, and more.

Do you want to learn more about vegan nutrition? Check out The Plant Centered and Thriving Podcast. It’s hosted by plant-based registered dietitian Ashley Kitchens, who chats with individuals about topics like gut health, intuitive eating, pregnancy, and more.

Special by Lizzo

We didn’t know this was possible, but Lizzo gets better with each album she releases. Special features groovy songs that will instantly lift your spirits. “About Damn Time” is our current anthem!

LISTENING TO

The Plant Centered and Thriving Podcast

Veggie Doctor Radio

EATING PLANTS It’s no secret that the plant-based industry has grown exponentially in the past few years! Want to look back on the latest trends? This six-episode docuseries explores the most popular vegan restaurants, dishes, chefs, athletes, doctors, and influencers in six different countries.

Pig Little Lies

UnchainedTV presents a reality series starring two abandoned potbellied pigs. Follow Dante and Beatrice as they are rescued from a high-kill shelter and adopted into a loving home. Grab the tissues—you’ll need them!

Stranger Things

Who else is obsessed with Netflix’s Stranger Things?

Sadie Sink (the actress who plays Max) is vegan, and she gave a stellar plant-powered performance this season. It’s definitely worth binging again during the holiday break.

WATCHING

As a board-certified pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and health & wellness coach, Dr. Yami is full of knowledge! Learn from Dr. Yami and other plant-based professionals about living a balanced vegan lifestyle on Veggie Doctor Radio.

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