Life is rather good when you get invited to come along and judge a vegan cook-off. I’m making that sound grander than it is. I was 1 of 100 judges (diners) nevertheless, I took my assignmentVERY seriously!
Down in the ‘oh so famous’ Brighton Lanes lies a hugely successful and innovative Japanese restaurant called Moshi Moshi. I’d never stepped over the threshold before, thinking it probably wholly unvegan. But after a scan of the events for the Brighton Food Festival 2012 I was so excited to find a VEGAN cook-off being held there. I thought what a lark…this is a bout I want to witness!
In its 3rd year, the VEGAN Maki Challenge is the brainchild of Moshi owners Kahl Jones and Nicholas Rohl. The restaurant is not vegan (alas). BUT they are known for their work in fish conservation and they are actively promoting ‘restorative eating’ by consuming less. I’d say make it easier and don’t eat the poor fish at all, but KUDOS to them for having no less than 23 vegan dishes on their menu and championing the awareness of over consumption. Anything that showcases superb vegan eats gets a thumbs up in my book!
All of the entrants had created wonderfully unique recipes. One of the two desserts took the title. v-Bites (owned by Heather Mills company Redwood) with their stunning chocolate-ribboned, green tea and pandan ice cream. Cashew Catering (my personal favourite) wrapped tempeh and chill bean puree in a crusted aubergine and marked the plate with a flourish of horseradish and ginger paste and a wonderfully tart and innovative raspberry and ume sauce. My other favourite (besides the eye catching ‘broken hearted’ maki from Moshi) was CanTina and her use of a lacy hijiki (a type of seaweed) rice cracker, jauntily leaning on her shiitake maki. Beautiful!
The other contenders were Yum Tum Sushi, Sabai Thai, Titbits (VEGAN) and India Summer who also serve up inspired Indian vegan cuisine.
A great night was had by all. The atmosphere was fantastic and the owners Kahl and Nicolas were great hosts. I’m considering signing up for their 50% off Monday Membership Clube. Big thanks to Lisa from JB PR who arranged for me to be part of it. I LOVE my job!
I hope you enjoy the video!! xx
Nice video!
@Anonymous
Why thank you, anon (if I may be so bold as to shorter your name)..(she curtseys).