Regardless, I try to make a special meal every year. And I'm not alone in that. You can even buy things like King Cake in many stores. Bars all over have Mardi Gras celebrations (usually on the weekend prior). Since this year, it falls on the 9th February, I'm making this post just in time. lol.
In past years, I often made a Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya (using Field Roast Mexican Chipotle "Sausages" and Sophie's Kitchen Vegan Breaded Shrimp [which did thicken it a bit, especially as I often cooked mine in a slow cooker]). Should you wish, you can make a Vegetarian Jambalaya (without any mock meats).
Maybe gumbo is more your thing? Here's a Vegetarian Gumbo recipe.
Another recipe I absolutely love is this Tempeh étouffée! It doesn't even need to be close to Mardi Gras for me to whip this up. And since it is a slow cooker recipe, you can come home to an amazing meal.
I haven't tried it, but this blackened tofu with Creole sauce looks yummilicious!
What if you prefer sandwiches? This meatless Po'Boy is delicious (I make it using Portabello mushrooms). Another famous New Orleans sandwich is the Muffaletta. Here's a recipe for a meatless version. And here's a Vegan Muffaletta that looks simply divine!
Can't forget about rice. You COULD purchase some rice mixes (several [including dirty rice, and red beans and rice] made by Zatarain's are listed on the "Accidentally Vegan" list!). Or you could make your own. Here's a Vegetarian New Orleans style red beans and rice. And here's a Vegetarian dirty rice.
Another side you might want to consider? Fried green tomatoes. Of course, it's best to dip them in buttermilk (or a plant-based milk if you're Vegan) before breading them.
The most well-known Mardi Gras dessert is the King Cake. If that's too big for you, you could make these easy mini versions (just check ingredients on the cinnamon rolls). And Vegans don't have to miss out...here's a Vegan King Cake recipe.
Maybe you're not a cinnamon fan? Then try beignets instead!
And what would Mardi Gras be without drinks? Here are 10 cocktails to try. If you choose not to drink alcohol, you can still enjoy a nice beverage: Here are 3 mocktails to try!
Well, that's it. Get your beads ready and prepare to flash some skin (or not!). Either way, Happy Mardi Gras to all. And don't forget that when the clock strikes twelve, Lent begins (for the Catholics, anyway).