In the previous post, we discussed how to plan an interesting Vegan-themed date for your partner. If you missed the post, check it out. There were many interesting ideas inside. Today, we want to give you some particular ideas on what you can cook for a Vegan date.
Samfaina
Samfaina, a dish originating from Catalonia, Spain, is similar to the French ratatouille and is made using eggplants, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olive oil. While some cooks prefer to add garlic or roast the peppers, there are numerous variations of this dish. Samfaina is commonly served as both a sauce and a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian dish. As a side dish or sauce, it’s usually served alongside meat, rice, or fish, with cod being a popular choice. The name “samfaina” means “symphony,” which could refer to the harmonious blend of various vegetables and flavors.
Typically, this dish involves sautéing vegetables in olive oil until they become soft and caramelized. To infuse a smoky flavor, some chefs prefer roasting the peppers before incorporating them into the recipe. Additionally, zucchini, mushrooms, or potatoes may also be added for variation.
This versatile dish is commonly utilized as a bread topping or sandwich filling. Notably, the vegetables utilized in the recipe are nutrient-dense, containing high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Therefore, it is an ideal option for individuals seeking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.
Gobi Manchurian
Gobi Manchurian is a classic dish that comes to us from Indian-Chinese cuisine. This dish consists of fried cauliflower florets (named gobi in its original language) coated in a delectable sweet and spicy sauce (Manchurian). You can find the dish cooked in two versions: dry and in gravy. The dry version is typically served as an appetizer or bar snack, accompanied by ketchup as a dipping sauce. On the other hand, the gravy version is a substantial main dish with rice on the side – either steamed or fried and has a thick sauce made with cornstarch.
To make the dish, the cauliflower florets are battered and deep-fried until they get crispy. The batter usually has the following ingredients – water, flour, cornflour, red chili powder, and seasoning. The sauce is made using garlic, ginger, onions, scallions, soy sauce, vinegar, oil, sugar, and chili peppers.
The sauce can be tweaked to become the best fit for individual tastes and preferences. Some people would like to make the sauce a bit spicier, while others prefer a milder version. You can also choose a thicker or thinner version of the sauce depending on whether the dish is being served dry or with gravy.
Mercimek Köfte
Mercimek Köfte is a Turkish delicacy that features oval-shaped patties made from a doughy blend of boiled red lentils and bulgur. The patties are infused with a pinch of salt, sautéed onions, tomato paste, and a dash of cumin for added flavor. In the spicier version, chili flakes are included to provide a fiery kick.
To enhance the dish’s fresh, invigorating taste, finely chopped parsley, dill, and spring onions are added to the mix towards the end of the cooking process. Mercimek Köfte has gained immense popularity in Turkey, where it is commonly served as a chilled appetizer at social gatherings. Traditionally, the dish is relished with a side of lettuce and a splash of zesty lemon juice.
The combination of red lentils and bulgur provides an excellent source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for health enthusiasts. Mercimek Köfte can be served as a vegetarian or vegan dish, making it an excellent option for people with dietary restrictions. Overall, this dish is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile culinary delight that is loved by many.
Tombet
Tombet is a mouthwatering traditional vegetable dish hailing from the beautiful island of Mallorca. This delectable dish is made by baking layers of eggplant, red bell peppers, and potatoes, which are first fried in high-quality olive oil. Once the ingredients are baked to perfection, the dish is typically garnished with a tantalizing mix of fried tomatoes, garlic, and parsley, providing an explosion of flavors in every bite.
The dish’s striking visual appearance resembles a scrumptious pie with no crust, adding to its appeal. Tombet is typically served as a filling vegetarian main dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a perfect side dish to complement meat or fish dishes. This versatile dish has gained immense popularity over time and can be savored at most Mallorcan restaurants, making it an excellent option for tourists and locals alike.
Notably, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a range of health benefits. Eggplants, bell peppers, and potatoes are all excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Plus, the high-quality olive oil used in the preparation of the dish is loaded with antioxidants, making this dish a healthy and delicious choice for food lovers. Overall, Tombet is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Mallorca, as it is a tasty representation of the island’s culinary heritage.
