Craving classic fish and chips but want a plant-based alternative? Look no further! My vegan fish and chips recipe features the star ingredient: banana blossom. Known for its flaky texture and ability to absorb flavours, banana blossom mimics the taste and feel of fish beautifully. When battered and fried to golden perfection, it creates a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with crispy chips. Paired with a zesty tartar sauce and a side of fresh peas, this dish will make you forget all about traditional fish. Get ready to enjoy a nostalgic favourite that’s entirely plant-based!
What is vegan fish made from?
Vegan fish can be made from a variety of plant-based ingredients, including banana blossom, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and jackfruit. Each ingredient offers a unique texture and flavour profile to mimic traditional fish. Along with those options, ingredients such as kelp and miso are sometimes added for that umami flavour.
How does banana blossom taste?
Banana blossom has a mild, subtle flavour that absorbs spices and marinades really well, making it an excellent base for vegan fish dishes. When prepared correctly, it mimics the flaky texture of fish. Think of it like jackfruit.
Is vegan fish gluten-free?
It depends on the specific recipe or product. While banana blossom and certain tofu-based recipes are gluten-free, some vegan fish alternatives made from seitan contain gluten. In this recipe, my vegan fish is completely gluten-free as we’re using rice paper around the banana blossom and corn flour in the batter.
Can I air fry the vegan fish instead of frying?
Yes, you can definitely air fry vegan fish instead of frying it! Air frying is a healthier alternative that can still achieve a crispy texture. While we’re shallow frying in this recipe, here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to around 190°C.
- Prepare the Vegan Fish: If you haven’t already, coat your vegan fish (like banana blossom) with the batter.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the vegan fish with a small amount of oil to help it crisp up during cooking.
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the vegan fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the vegan fish is heated through and has reached your desired level of crispiness.
Using an air fryer is a great way to enjoy vegan fish with less oil while still getting that satisfying crunch!
Can vegan fish be frozen?
Yes, your homemade vegan fish can be frozen! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Cool Completely: Allow your vegan fish to cool down completely at room temperature to prevent condensation, which can lead to freezer burn.
- Wrap Individually: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the fish from sticking together.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the wrapped pieces in an airtight freezer bag or a freezer-safe container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to minimize freezer burn.
- Label and Date: Write the date and contents on the bag or container to keep track of how long it has been frozen.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to use the frozen vegan fish, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also cook it directly from frozen; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Freezing homemade vegan fish is a great way to have a convenient meal option on hand whenever you need it!