Giving up meat and all animal-based products seems challenge enough, but for any Brit to be asked to forsake a meal as synonymous with British culture as fish and chips would surely be a bridge too far. However, Slutton and Sons Fish and Chips have spared the undecided of London any such trauma. The company's new restaurant in Stoke Newington, London dishes up a wholly vegan version of this iconic meal.
Using banana blossoms, seaweed and samphire, innovative chefs at Slutton and Sons Fish and Chips have created what many satisfied customers have described as being very close to the real thing in taste. Texture is less similar, as the flesh does not flake like that of fish, but this has not detracted from the highly favourable reviews from both vegans and meat-eaters. The banana blossom resembles a peeled artichoke. The recipe exclusive to Slutton and Sons Fish and Chips has the banana blossom marinating for 24 hours in a variety of herbs and spices, as well as seaweed and sea salt, which adds that fishy flavour. The cooking process is then exactly the same as with fish. Portions are dipped in seasoned batter and deep fried to a crispy golden brown. The egg-free tartar sauce that accompanies the meal has earned further rave reviews for flavour.
Judging by the number of vegan and non- vegan customers patronising the Sutton and Sons Fish and Chips vegan restaurant in London, the number of chippies, as well as the vegan menus on offer are sure to expand. Slutton and Sons Fish and Chips vegan menu already includes favourites like fish cakes and fish burgers. Vegan sausages in batter are also very popular menu items.
Will the banana blossom become widely accepted as a healthier and more environmentally friendly substitute for fish? The debate will most likely never be fully resolved, but residents of, and visitors to London certainly do not seem to object to having more vegan options. Particularly when restaurants like Sutton and Sons Fish and Chips in London turn the heat up on flavour.
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