A Vegetarian Christmas

Christmas always poses as a bit of a quandry to the non-veggie cook who has been descended upon by a vegetarian or two for the biggest meal of the year. Having experienced 15 years worth of vegetarian Christmas meals I thought it might be nice to share what I think makes a good veggie alternative.

Firstly, I have absolutely no objection to having just the veggies - roast potatoes, parmasan baked parsnips, carrots (also good roasted!), sproats ect. ect. Although of course its not a good idea to roast them in goose fat! The major issue is the gravy, a roast dinnner just isn't a roast dinner without the gravy so always supply a healthy helping of veggie gravy with the meal (bisto gravey granuals with the hot water from the veggies and a splash of red wine works a treat!). Any vegetarian will love you for this!!

However, if you fancy serving up something a little bit special and different (please please no more nut roast or Linda McCartney Veggie Sausages!!!) I really recommend a recipe by Queen Delia, Cheese and Parsnip Roulade with Sage and Onion Stuffing. I have this most years for xmas and it is truely divine, loved by veggies and non veggies alike. It's a bit fiddly to make and you have to get hold of some sage derby cheese (go to the local deli) but it's well worth the effort. The recipe can be found in Delia's Vegetarian Collection and on her website. Delia's vegetarian recipes are wonderful for any special occaision. Now repeat the mantra after me after me . . . "the only way is the Delia way". . .