Autumn Vegan Comfort Food Food & Recipes

[Haley]

As the days shorten and the air turns crisp, autumn always seems to invite a slower pace - a time to savour the simple pleasure of a warm, comforting meal. This season has a way of rekindling our appreciation for hearty dishes that do more than fill our stomachs; they nurture and ground us.

Autumn cooking is all about deep flavours, gentle spices, and ingredients that feel both rustic and nourishing. One dish that perfectly captures this is thick-cut celeriac "steaks" - roasted until golden and nutty, served alongside lentils and a smooth garlic mayo. It's a meal that balances texture, flavour, and that unmistakable autumn warmth.

Other seasonal favourites making their way into kitchens include the sweet potato tortilla, tempeh and black bean chilli, and a wonderfully rich sweet potato, black bean, and peanut butter stew. Each one is hearty, wholesome, and full of flavour without relying on animal products - ideal for those leaning towards a plant-based diet or simply looking to add variety.

There's something deeply satisfying about these meals - they embody the essence of autumn: slow cooking, shared tables, and that comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen on a rainy evening.

What does comfort food mean to you during this season? Are there certain dishes or ingredients you always return to once the cold sets in?

 

[Janey]

For me, comfort food in autumn means slow-cooked meals. I love the idea of celeriac steaks - it's such an underrated vegetable. I usually roast it in cubes with thyme and olive oil, but cutting it into steaks sounds wonderful.

There's something elemental about cooking at this time of year - stews simmering away, bread baking, that golden hue everything seems to take on. I've been experimenting with lentils more lately, and pairing them with garlic mayo sounds like an excellent idea. I might even add a bit of smoked paprika for depth.