As the festive season approaches, brains and bellies start to scheme, with one goal in mind: concocting the perfect menu! There are those quiet souls who go in for traditional dishes and find happiness in tried-and-tested recipes that they’ve used a hundred times before. Then there are the others, the fork explorers, the Indiana Joneses of the stoves, who tackle new culinary horizons and push the envelope.
And if you are in the second category, we’ve got just the thing for you! Because, as we already know that this holiday season will have a rather special flavour, we have decided not to skimp on either the taste or the festive spirit. We have put together a 100% plant-based, 100% awesome seasonal menu.
SMOKED TOFU, BUTTON MUSHROOM AND WALNUT TERRINE
The festivities kick off with a remix: terrine maison. This version, by Jill Cousin, is made with smoked tofu, nuts and mushrooms. It's a little treat that you just can’t beat: so full of familiar flavours, especially when spread nicely on a slice of crusty country bread. Add cornichons as a revolutionary bonus!
CREAMY HELIANTIS SOUP WITH FRESH TRUFFLE
So discreet that it has almost been forgotten, heliantis, a cousin of sunflower in terms of looks and jerusalem artichoke in terms of taste, blends perfectly with truffle. Done in a creamy soup, this is a festive number that hits the spot just right. This is a sure-fire way to set the big day off with a bang and wow everyone at your table!
SMALL SPELT, SQUASH AND CHANTERELLE RISOTTO
This recipe ticks all the boxes for the main course: Generous. Check. Melt-in-the-mouth Check. Full of flavours. Check. And yes, this small spelt, squash and mushroom combo truly works wonders: guests will be bowled over by this masterful mix of forgotten cereals! PARTY BINGO.
PEAR, ALMOND AND CHOCOLATE CAKE
Dessert is fruit’s time to shine, thanks to this tangy cake which goes perfectly with a generous spoonful of whipped cream! Be prepared: just like with all the other recipes here, you can prepare it well in advance and serve it in its party outfit (i.e. a glass ramekin) on the big night!
All in all: you are looking at a little botanical feast that will put everyone in the party mood. Delight your guests, and spread a little Yuletide cheer, with this seasonal, plant-based food!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!