When my family visits during the holiday season, you’ll inevitably find us on the couch debating what to watch and what to eat. With help from plant-based food blogger Lori Rasmussen of My Quiet Kitchen, we’ve saved you the debate with these film and animal-friendly food matchups—one per genre, depending on your tastes (pun intended).
The Nice Guys (2016)
In one scene of this raunchy yet heartfelt homage to buddy cop movies, hired enforcer Jackson steals a chocolate drink from the daughter of private investigator-turned-single-dad Holland. Make omega-3 rich Chocolate Hemp Milk and Chocolate Chickpea Cookies to keep you fueled through The Nice Guys' nonstop laughs.
Soul (2020)
Joe, a middle school teacher who dreams of becoming a jazz musician, falls into a coma after a utility hole accident and must reunite his body and soul in time for his big break. In this poignant movie about appreciating the little things in life, pizza is featured as one of those little things—but go big and make Rasmussen’s Vegan Stuffed Crust Pizza With Homemade Mozzarella and Herb Crust, which she says is “easier than you think.”
Barbie (2023)
You may have had enough of hearing “I’m just Ken,” but if not, Barbie is an undeniably fun, family-friendly movie that begs for festive pink food, such as The Best Vegan Strawberry Cake or Cranberry Cream Pie.
Uncorked (2020)
Inspired by the life of Black sommelier DLynn Proctor, this coming-of-age drama follows a young man torn between joining his family barbecue business and becoming a master sommelier. You can guess what happens next. Pair this sweet, funny film with a crisp White Wine Pasta Sauce for maximum mouthfeel.
The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001, 2002, 2003)
If the weather is truly dire (think blizzard), it doesn’t get any better than a Lord of the Rings marathon. In a scene that’s since been memed around the world, hobbit Samwise Gamgee explains the concept of “potatoes” to “Precious”-obsessed Gollum. “Poh-tay-toes!” he enunciates in frustration. “Boil ’em, mash ’em, stick ’em in a stew!” Combat cold weather and Ringwraiths with Rasmussen's Hearty Potato Stew.
The Big Sick (2017)
This heartfelt film follows Pakistani comic Kumail and American graduate student Emily, who break up after a scared Kumail fails to tell his Muslim parents about their relationship. But when Emily falls severely ill, Kumail must face her parents and, eventually, his own. Along the way, there are memorable food scenes involving American fast food and traditional Middle Eastern fare. Combine both with Tabbouleh-Inspired Chickpea Patties.
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