Passover commemorates the liberation of Jews from slavery in Egypt over 3,000 years ago. By celebrating a vegan Passover, Jews can extend the struggle for freedom—not just for humans, but for every living being.
Passover celebrations focus on a special dinner called a seder, typically served on a ‘seder plate’ that features a designated spot for each component of the meal. Unfortunately for vegans, a seder plate traditionally includes a lamb shank and an egg. The remainder of the plate is vegan-friendly, featuring matzah, horseradish, bitter herbs, charoset (a mixture of apples, chopped nuts, and wine), and an accompanying bowl of salt water for dipping the matzah.
Carol Leifer, the comedian who inspired the creation of Elaine Benes on Seinfeld, created an informative and funny three-minute video on how to have a vegan seder.
During the seder meal, it is customary to drink four glasses of wine (children are often served grape juice). You can purchase vegan wine to participate in this part of the tradition. Other traditional Passover dinner items include matzah ball soup and matzah brei (click the preceding links for recipes).
Vegan Holiday Kitchen includes recipes especially for Passover, with both Ashkenazi and Sephardic versions.
