Wondering about poultry seasoning and whether or not it can be included in a vegetarian diet? Read on to find out more about poultry seasoning!
What is poultry seasoning?
Poultry seasoning is a blend of spices. The most common pre-made store-bought brand of poultry seasoning is McCormick's, which comes in a small red spice container and can be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, but there are several other brands of poultry seasonings available as well. McCormick's brand poultry seasoning contains thyme, sage, marjoram, rosemary, black pepper, and nutmeg. Other blends may contain celery seed, celery salt and occasionally ground cloves.
Is poultry seasoning vegetarian?
Yes! Poultry seasoning is vegetarian! Despite the name, poultry seasoning contains no poultry and no meat whatsoever. It's called "poultry seasoning" because it is used to season poultry, not because it
contains poultry. Poultry seasoning is a blend of spices, which are grown in the ground, dried, and ground up together. No chickens (or other birds) are harmed in the making of poultry seasoning.
Poultry seasoning is vegetarian and vegan.
I don't believe you!
Fine. Make your own homemade poultry seasoning to use in vegetarian and vegan recipes. Here's a few recipes to try:
Southern poultry seasoning blend
Poultry seasoning with savory
Poultry seasoning rub with ginger
I believe you! Do you have some vegetarian recipes using poultry seasoning?
Yes, lots! Here's a few vegetarian and vegan recipes which use poultry seasoning to impart a "gamey" flavor to a meatless dish:
Traditional poultry-seasoned Tofurky Roast
Vegetarian Loaf recipe with TVP and tofu
Homemade tofu turkey
Vegetarian mushroom gravy recipe
Thanksgiving stuffing with cranberries
Why would a vegetarian want to use something called poultry seasoning? What is poultry seasoning used for?
Well, for one, you probably have some leftover in your cupboard! Many vegetarian and vegan Thanksgiving recipes, in particular, such as gravy or stuffing call for poultry seasoning to add a flavor that is similar to meat dishes, since many traditional turkey stuffing and turkey recipes use poultry seasoning to flavor the meat. But, since it's vegetarian (and vegan!) there's no reason not to use poultry seasoning in your meatless meals.
See also: Nutrtional information of poultry seasoning
