Loounie: a wide-ranging and inspiring journey

In 2011, Caroline Huard (known as Loounie on social media (French only) ) returned from a trip to the south-west of France and made the switch to veganism. “At first, I wanted to change my diet for my own well-being, but I soon read about the ethical issues and decided on a vegan lifestyle,” she explained. Her choice meant no more animal products in her plate or her life (for example, vegans don’t wear leather). 

Earlier this year, the former occupational therapist in mental health even founded her own small business with the launch of tofu magique—magic tofu—which is currently sold at Metro. She has also published two recipe books and hosts radio and television shows and conferences.

Vegan recipes to bring people together 

Not sure where to start when it comes to veganism? No problem! We have a few tips and recipes for you. As Loounie herself put it: “Vegan cuisine is inclusive. Everyone, vegan or not, can enjoy it. As long as it’s delicious!”

Among Caroline’s favourite holiday dishes are a few classics with a vegan twist. Her bean-based meatballs with sauce, mashed potatoes and sides are always a hit.

She recalls a memorable holiday dinner with friends for which she made a huge amount of tofu magique (French only) and gravy-style sauce that disappeared in a flash! “I was so pleased to see everyone enjoying it!” she said. So, what makes the tofu so magical? The fact that everyone—even people who’ve never liked tofu—loves it! Served warm or cold, it’s even delicious in a sandwich. For a more gourmet meal, try caramelizing it (French only) .

Taking the time to cook

With its countless festivities, winter the perfect season to cook for friends and family. “The holidays are such a great time to cook without being in a hurry and make recipes that have a lot of steps and require a lot of time, like the spiral tart I created for the SAQ!” she said. So, trust yourself and don’t be afraid to try new things! We’re convinced you’ll fall in love with a few vegan dishes that will become part of the holiday classics at your table!

Warm twice-roasted carrot salad

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 50 minutes 

Serves 4 to 6

Roasting twice creates a caramelized texture and keeps the carrots crispy. It’s also a great way to prepare a head of garlic to flavour the white bean purée. 

Note: the recipe yields a good amount of bean purée that goes well with a platter of crudités and as a sandwich spread.

Pair the dish with

Carrot polenta and simmered lentils with root vegetables 

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 40 minutes 

Serves 6 to 8

Carrot juice bring a sweetness and bright colour to the polenta that contrasts with the red beets. This simple and comforting stew can be made ahead of time. All you have to do is cook the polenta before serving. 

Pair the dish with  

Squash and tofu spiral tart with cranberry-apple sauce 

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 75 minutes 

Serves 4 to 6

This tart is inspired by kichi kozanis, a spiral-shaped Greek cheese pie from Kozani. A tofu crumble with mushrooms stands in for cheese.

The tart has three rolls of stuffed phyllo pastry shaped into a spiral. The squash and tofu filling could also go into short crust or puff pastry and even small phyllo bites.

Pair the dish with