Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey
When it comes to holiday feasts, the centerpiece often steals the show, and this Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey is no exception—except that it’s entirely plant-based! Made with a savory blend of herbs and spices, this vegan roast is designed to impress even the most devoted carnivores at your table. The secret lies in the combination of marinated tofu and a hearty stuffing that brings all the flavors of the season without the guilt.
Historically, the tradition of roasting a turkey dates back to the early 17th century in America, where it became a staple for Thanksgiving celebrations. However, as more people embrace plant-based diets, the need for a delicious alternative has never been more pressing. This vegan version captures the essence of the original while ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities, regardless of dietary preferences.
To create this herb-crusted masterpiece, we start with firm tofu, which serves as the base for our roast. It’s marinated in a blend of vegetable broth, olive oil, and a medley of fresh herbs, allowing it to soak up all the flavors. The stuffing, made from whole grains, vegetables, and nuts, adds texture and depth, making each bite a celebration of taste. And let’s not forget the herb crust that gives it that golden-brown finish—because who doesn’t love a bit of crunch?
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to impress your family with a delicious meal, this Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey is sure to be a hit. Just remember, if anyone asks where the turkey is, you can confidently say, “It’s right here, just a little more… herbaceous!”
Ingredients
- 2 pounds firm tofu
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups whole grain bread, cubed
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup carrot, diced
- 0.5 cup walnuts, chopped
- 0.5 cup nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows for even cooking and helps achieve that golden crust we all love.
- Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the tofu absorbs the marinade.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable broth, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended, creating a fragrant marinade.
- Cut the pressed tofu into large slabs and place them in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- While the tofu marinates, prepare the stuffing. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced celery and carrot in a splash of olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cubed whole grain bread to the skillet, along with the chopped walnuts and nutritional yeast. Stir to combine, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors from the vegetables.
- Once the stuffing is well mixed, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle when stuffing the tofu.
- After marinating, take the tofu slabs and carefully cut a pocket into each piece. Stuff each pocket generously with the prepared stuffing, pressing gently to secure.
- Place the stuffed tofu slabs in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded. This helps them cook evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. You’ll know it’s done when it has a lovely aroma and a firm texture.
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the stuffed tofu for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier serving.
- Slice the herb-crusted roast and serve it warm with your favorite vegan gravy or cranberry sauce. It’s a delightful centerpiece for any holiday table.
- Enjoy your herb-crusted roast turkey with family and friends, and don’t forget to share the secret that it’s all plant-based—just watch their jaws drop!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Carbs g: 35
- Protein g: 20
- Fat g: 15
- Sugar g: 2
