FOOD EDITION
ever-changing set menu showcases the best of what’s in season, often highlighting produce from nearby farms. Vanderlyle focuses heavily on plant-based creations, and its enviable ability to transform simple ingredients into artful plates makes this a must-visit for any food lover. “We also create a soft drinks pairing and seasonal cocktail that changes with our menu and the seasons. A popular choice is our fig leaf negroni,” says assistant manager Alice Park. Cambridge’s love affair with Indian cuisine takes on a plant-powered twist at The Tiffin Truck. Situated on Regent Street, this vibrant eatery brings the flavours of India to the forefront with a menu that includes plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The thali is a standout, offering a medley of dishes that might include creamy dhal or tangy pickles along with aromatic curry. The tandoori cauliflower, which is marinated in spices and cooked to perfection, is a particular favourite among diners. With its lively atmosphere and bold flavours, The Tiffin Truck is an excellent choice for those craving a culinary journey. Africfood, a restaurant on Hills Road, is bringing the vibrant flavours of West Africa to Cambridge. Indulge in creamy egusi, a soup made with ground melon seeds and pounded yam, or savour the smoky richness of the iconic jollof rice, prepared with a medley of tomatoes, peppers and aromatic spices. Try out the crispy akara (blended bean fritters) or the savoury moi moi (steamed bean pudding) for a taste of tradition, and don’t miss the comforting yam porridge (asaro) or flavourful efo riro spinach stew, cooked to perfection. At Africfood, vegan eating is bold, satisfying and deeply rooted in West African culture. Who says pub grub can’t be plant- based? The Seven Stars on Newmarket Road is rewriting the rules of traditional British dining, catering to vegetarians and vegans without compromising on flavour. The vegan ‘fish’ and chips, which is made from banana blossom, is a crowd favourite, while its hearty vegan burgers and tasty, comforting pies ensure there’s something for everyone. Pair your meal with one of its craft beers or ciders – many of which are vegan-friendly – and enjoy the relaxed, welcoming ambience that makes this pub a staple of the local dining scene. Cambridge’s culinary landscape is a testament to how far plant-based dining has come. From inventive creations to global flavours, the city offers an incredible variety of veggie options, promising a dish to tantalise every taste bud.
BELLA RAMSEY’S PESTO PASTRY SPIRALS
Prep time: 15 mins Cooking time: 15 mins You will need
• Jus-Rol puff pastry, ready rolled • Tomato purée or vegan pesto • Vegan cheese • Lots of basil (leaves or dried)
• Salt and pepper How to make it 1 Roll out pastry sheet.
2 Cover with tomato purée/pesto but leave a thumb-width of space around the edges. 3 Sprinkle on vegan cheese and anything else you fancy: eg capers, olives, etc. 4 Wash, dry and tear basil leaves if fresh; distribute on top of cheese. 5 Roll up the loaded pastry sheet lengthways until you have a log. 6 Slice the log into little spirals and lay flat on a lined baking tray. 7 Pop them in the oven for 10-15 mins on gas mark 4/180°C. Recipe and image courtesy of Veganuary. People who register to receive Veganuary’s 31 daily support emails will receive the full celebrity e-cookbook
PLANT PAIRINGS Vanderlyle’s fig leaf negroni (bottom); a Veganuary chilli-choc sauce (middle)
Converting people entirely isn’t our mission : we’re just trying to introduce them to plant-based foods
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK JANUARY 2025 61
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