As January rolls around, so does Veganuary, a movement that inspires people to embrace plant-based eating for a month. For chefs, this is the perfect opportunity to get creative with fresh, vibrant ingredients that celebrate vegetables in all their glory.
At Rushton’s, we’re passionate about supporting chefs with the finest fresh seasonal produce, and we’re here to help you make Veganuary a flavour-packed success.
Why Veganuary Matters to Chefs
Plant-based dining has shifted from a niche trend to a mainstream expectation. With more diners opting for vegan dishes, Veganuary is an ideal chance to showcase your culinary skills while tapping into a growing market. Thoughtful, well-crafted vegan dishes can elevate your menu and demonstrate your commitment to innovation and inclusivity.
Spotlight on Seasonal Produce
Using fresh, in-season produce is the key to creating dishes that truly shine. Here are some standout ingredients for Veganuary:
- UK Purple Sprouting Broccoli: Packed with nutrients and a delicate nutty flavour, this versatile vegetable can be roasted, sautéed, or used in vibrant salads.
- Celeriac: An underrated hero, celeriac works beautifully in purées, soups, and even as a steak alternative.
- Kale and Cavolo Nero: These hearty greens are perfect for sautéing, baking into crisps, or adding a nutritional boost to grain bowls.
- Heritage Carrots: Add visual appeal and earthy sweetness with a mix of purple, yellow, red, white and orange carrots.
Techniques to Maximise Flavour
Cooking vegan dishes doesn’t mean compromising on taste. Our chefs said that they use these techniques to add depth and richness:
- Caramelisation: Roast or grill vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness and create layers of flavour.
- Umami Boosters: Ingredients like miso, nutritional yeast, tamari, and smoked paprika can replicate the savoury notes of traditional dishes. (check out our dry goods for these ingredients!)
- Texture Play: Balance creamy elements with crunchy toppings like toasted nuts, seeds, or crispy vegetables.
- Fermentation: Sauerkraut, kimchi, and fermented chilli paste can add complexity and brightness to dishes.
Dish Inspiration
Need a little creative spark? Here are some ideas from some of our chefs:
- Winter Squash and Sage Ravioli: Homemade pasta filled with roasted squash and served with a vegan butter alternative and crispy sage.
- Celeriac Steaks with a Miso Glaze: Pan-seared celeriac served over lentils with a rich miso dressing.
- Heritage Carrot Tarte Tatin: A show-stopping savoury tarte with caramelised carrots and a flaky vegan pastry.
- Purple Sprouting Broccoli Tempura: Crispy batter-coated broccoli served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Sustainability at the Heart of Veganuary
At Rushton’s, we’re proud to source produce from suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability. Veganuary isn’t just about dietary choices, it’s also a time to consider the environmental impact of the food we serve. By using locally sourced, seasonal vegetables, you’re reducing food miles and supporting sustainable farming practices.
Let’s Make Veganuary Delicious
Rushton’s is here to support you with the freshest produce, delivered straight to your kitchen. Our team is always on hand to recommend the best seasonal ingredients and share tips on how to make them shine.
Are you ready to embrace the challenge? Get in touch with us today to explore how we can help bring your Veganuary dishes to life!
