Vegan Green Bean Casserole
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Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and indulging in comforting, delicious food. For many, green bean casserole is a classic part of the holiday spread. But why should non-vegans have all the fun? This Vegan Green Bean Casserole is just as creamy, savory, and satisfying as the traditional version, with a few twists to make it entirely plant-based. From the rich and velvety mushroom sauce to the crunchy onion topping, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re vegan, hosting plant-based guests, or just want to try something new, this dish is sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
Why You Will Love This Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- Classic Comfort with a Twist: This vegan green bean casserole captures the nostalgia of the classic dish but is made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. No one will even miss the dairy or meat!
- Crispy, Flavorful Onion Topping: The crispy fried onion topping provides that perfect crunchy texture and savory flavor, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy green bean filling.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite how impressive it looks, this recipe is easy to follow and can be prepped in advance, making it ideal for busy Thanksgiving schedules.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh green beans, mushrooms, and nutritious plant-based ingredients, this dish is not just tasty but also wholesome.
- Perfect for Everyone: Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply trying to eat more plant-based foods, this casserole will be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Notes
- Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this recipe. They hold their shape well and offer a nice bite, but you can also use frozen green beans if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms give this dish a savory, umami flavor. You can use button mushrooms, cremini, or even a mix of your favorite types.
- Vegan Butter or Olive Oil: This is used to sauté the vegetables and create the roux for the sauce. Either option works, but vegan butter will give a richer flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps to thicken the sauce. You can use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Vegetable Broth: Use a low-sodium vegetable broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
- Plant-Based Milk: Make sure to choose unsweetened varieties, like almond, soy, or oat milk, so that the casserole doesn’t turn out too sweet.
- Nutritional Yeast (Optional): This adds a slight cheesy flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: This adds depth of flavor to the sauce. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari.
- Fried Onions: These are essential for that crispy, delicious topping. You can make your own (as per the recipe above) or use store-bought fried onions if you’re short on time.
Tips for Making the Best Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- Blanch the Green Beans Properly: Blanching is key to keeping the green beans vibrant and slightly crisp. After blanching, immediately rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Cook the Mushrooms Thoroughly: Mushrooms release a lot of moisture when they cook. Make sure to sauté them until they are fully browned, and most of their liquid has evaporated. This will help prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
- Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce feels too thick, add a little extra vegetable broth or plant-based milk. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer to thicken.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the crispy onions on top and bake.
- Choose the Right Plant-Based Milk: Avoid sweetened or flavored milk varieties. Unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk work best in savory dishes.
Serving Suggestions (Vegan)
The Vegan Green Bean Casserole makes an excellent side dish for any holiday meal. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. Here are a few vegan-friendly ways to serve it:
- As Part of a Holiday Spread: Pair this casserole with mashed potatoes, vegan stuffing, and a hearty vegan roast for a perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.
- With a Simple Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the casserole with a fresh green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.
- Next to Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or squash complement this dish nicely.
Vegan Pairings
Wondering what other vegan dishes would go well with this casserole? Here are some pairing ideas:
- Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a rich vegan gravy will make the perfect comforting combination with the casserole.
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce adds a lovely contrast to the savory casserole.
- Vegan Stuffing: Traditional stuffing made with a plant-based twist pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Roasted Butternut Squash: For an extra pop of color and flavor, roasted butternut squash makes a delightful addition to your meal.
Storing
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the casserole without the crispy onion topping. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven so the topping remains crispy. If using a microwave, the topping may soften.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce and gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce. Be sure to use gluten-free fried onions for the topping, or make your own using gluten-free flour.
Q2: Can I use canned green beans? While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned green beans if needed. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the casserole.
Q3: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the crispy onions) a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the fried onions on top and bake as directed.
Q4: Can I substitute the mushrooms? If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with finely diced zucchini, bell peppers, or extra green beans for added texture.
Q5: Is there a way to make the crispy onions healthier? Yes! Instead of frying, you can bake the onion rings. Spread them on a baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Essential Equipment for Vegan Green Bean Casserole
- Large Pot: For blanching the green beans.
- Skillet: To sauté the mushrooms and make the sauce.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works well for this casserole.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the crispy onions and other ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure a smooth and lump-free sauce.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To handle the green beans and onions.
This Vegan Green Bean Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that fits perfectly into any Thanksgiving feast. Creamy, flavorful, and topped with the crispiest fried onions, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds (or even thirds!). Whether you’re cooking for a vegan crowd or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a holiday favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Do you have a special twist on green bean casserole, or have any questions about the recipe? Drop your comments below! I’d love to hear your variations, feedback, or any holiday traditions you pair with this dish. If you tried the recipe, let me know how it turned out and tag me on social media!
Happy Thanksgiving and happy cooking! 🎃🌿
Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Indulge in this delicious Vegan Green Bean Casserole, the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table! Made with fresh green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and topped with crispy fried onions, this dish is sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a holiday classic that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- For the Green Bean Casserole:
- 500g (1 lb) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- For the Crispy Onion Topping:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for about 5 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the vegan butter (or heat oil) over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir until the vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the vegetable broth and plant-based milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add soy sauce, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast if using. Cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more broth or plant-based milk.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, mix the blanched green beans with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, until bubbling.
- While the casserole is baking, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the sliced onion rings in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Fry the onions in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the crispy fried onions. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegan green bean casserole!
Notes
- Save time on Thanksgiving day by preparing the casserole components in advance. Blanch the green beans, make the mushroom sauce, and fry the onions a day before. Just assemble and bake when you're ready to serve!
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the mushroom sauce for extra depth. Thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavor and make it uniquely yours.
- For the best flavor and texture, use fresh green beans instead of canned. They’ll provide a crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and crispy onion topping.
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